Microsoft and Activision Blizzard's New Venture: AA Games from AAA IPs
A newly formed Blizzard team, primarily composed of King employees, is focusing on developing smaller-scale, AA games based on established Blizzard franchises. This initiative follows Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard in 2023, granting access to a wealth of popular IPs.
Leveraging King's Mobile Expertise
The strategic move aims to leverage King's proven success in the mobile gaming market, exemplified by titles like Candy Crush and Farm Heroes. The expectation is that this new team will concentrate on developing mobile AA titles, expanding the reach of existing franchises. King's past experience with IP adaptations, including Crash Bandicoot: On the Run! (since discontinued) and the planned (but currently unclear) Call of Duty mobile game, provides a foundation for this endeavor.
Microsoft's Mobile Ambitions
Microsoft's commitment to mobile gaming is evident. Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, highlighted mobile's crucial role in Xbox's growth strategy, emphasizing it as the key driver behind the Activision Blizzard acquisition. This isn't about bringing existing titles to mobile, but about establishing a significant mobile presence. This strategy is further underscored by Microsoft's development of a competing mobile app store. While details remain scarce, Spencer indicated its release is imminent, rather than years away.
Exploring a New Development Model
The rising costs of AAA game development have prompted Microsoft to explore alternative approaches. By utilizing smaller, more agile teams within its larger structure, Microsoft aims to experiment with a more cost-effective model.
Speculation and Potential Projects
The creation of this new team has sparked considerable speculation regarding potential projects. Scaled-down versions of popular franchises, such as a World of Warcraft mobile experience similar to League of Legends: Wild Rift, or a mobile Overwatch title comparable to Apex Legends Mobile or Call of Duty: Mobile, are among the possibilities. The future holds exciting potential for this new venture.
