Microsoft and Activision Blizzard: A New Strategy for Mobile Gaming Domination
Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard has sparked a new initiative: a dedicated team focused on developing smaller-scale, AA games leveraging established franchises. This article delves into the strategy behind this move and explores potential projects.
King's Expertise Fuels Blizzard's Mobile Ambitions
According to Windows Central's Jez Corden, a newly formed Blizzard team, largely composed of King employees, is tasked with creating AA titles based on existing Blizzard IPs. This leverages King's mobile game development prowess, known for successes like Candy Crush and Farm Heroes.
King's past experience with IP-based mobile games, such as the now-discontinued Crash Bandicoot: On the Run!, and their previously announced (but currently unclear) Call of Duty mobile project, provides a foundation for this new venture.
Microsoft's Mobile Gaming Push
At Gamescom 2023, Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, highlighted mobile gaming's crucial role in Xbox's future. He emphasized that mobile capabilities were a key factor in the Activision Blizzard acquisition, stating it addressed a gap in Microsoft's portfolio. This isn't about bringing existing games to mobile, but about establishing a strong mobile presence.
Microsoft's commitment to mobile extends to the development of a competing mobile app store, aiming to challenge Apple and Google. While details are scarce, Spencer hinted at a launch timeframe sooner than "multiple years away" at CCXP 2023.
A New Approach to Game Development
The rising costs of AAA game development have prompted Microsoft to explore alternative strategies. The new team represents an experiment in leveraging smaller, more agile teams within the larger structure.
Speculation abounds regarding the team's projects. Potential candidates include mobile adaptations of popular franchises like World of Warcraft (similar to League of Legends: Wild Rift), or a mobile Overwatch experience in the vein of Apex Legends Mobile or Call of Duty: Mobile. The future of mobile gaming within the Microsoft ecosystem is clearly a significant focus.
