Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard has spurred a new initiative: the creation of a dedicated team within Blizzard, primarily composed of King employees, to develop smaller-scale, AA titles based on established franchises. This strategic move aims to leverage King's mobile gaming expertise and expand Microsoft's presence in the mobile market.
This new team's focus will be on developing AA games, characterized by their smaller budgets and scope compared to AAA releases. Given King's success with mobile titles like Candy Crush and Farm Heroes, it's highly likely that these new games will be designed for mobile platforms. King's past experience with IP adaptations, such as the now-discontinued Crash Bandicoot: On the Run!, provides a foundation for this venture. The status of their previously announced Call of Duty mobile game remains uncertain.
Microsoft's commitment to mobile gaming is undeniable. Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has openly stated that mobile capabilities were a key factor in the Activision Blizzard acquisition. He highlighted the lack of significant mobile presence as the primary driver for the $68.7 billion deal, emphasizing the mobile market as the largest gaming platform globally. This strategy is further reinforced by Microsoft's development of a competing mobile app store, expected to launch sooner than anticipated.
The rising costs of AAA game development have prompted Microsoft to explore alternative approaches. By creating smaller, specialized teams, the company aims to experiment with different development models and potentially mitigate financial risks. While details remain scarce, speculation abounds regarding potential projects. These could include mobile adaptations of popular franchises like World of Warcraft (similar to Wild Rift) or Overwatch (similar to Apex Legends Mobile or Call of Duty: Mobile). The future of mobile gaming may well be shaped by this strategic shift.
LATEST ARTICLES 02
2025-04
Today's sale on Apple's latest AirPods offers fantastic savings across various budgets. Starting with the premium model, the second-generation Apple AirPods Pro with wireless noise-canceling earbuds is now available for $169.99, down from its usual price of $240. If you're looking for a slightly mor
Author: AmeliaReading:0
02
2025-04
*Lost Records: Bloom & Rage* offers a narrative-rich experience that emphasizes the power of choices and their consequences. The game revolves around the reunion of four high school friends, brought back together by a long-buried secret. With its intricate storytelling and multiple outcomes, players
Author: AmeliaReading:0
02
2025-04
Spanish game studio Patrones & Escondites has once again captivated players with their latest release, "It’s Your House: A Hidden Truth." This narrative puzzle thriller invites you to uncover the mysteries hidden within your own home as a teenage protagonist. Launched today on Android, PC via Steam,
Author: AmeliaReading:0
02
2025-04
Publisher Tilting Point, in collaboration with developer AN Games and licensed by Paramount Game Studios, has officially launched the 4X strategy game *Avatar Legends: Realms Collide*. This exciting new title is now available worldwide, except for select Asian territories which will see a delayed re
Author: AmeliaReading:0
