Microsoft Activision Aims to Make AA Games of AAA IPs

Microsoft and Activision Blizzard's New Team Targets Mobile Gaming

A newly formed Blizzard team, primarily composed of King employees, is focusing on developing smaller-scale, AA games based on existing Activision Blizzard franchises. This strategic move follows Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard, granting them access to a wealth of popular IPs.

King's Mobile Expertise Drives Development

Industry insider Jez Corden reports that this initiative aims to leverage King's mobile game development expertise. Known for mobile successes like Candy Crush, King's experience suggests a focus on mobile adaptations of established franchises. Past projects like Crash Bandicoot: On the Run! (though discontinued) and plans for a Call of Duty mobile title highlight their capabilities, although the latter's status remains unclear.

Microsoft's Mobile Ambitions

Microsoft's commitment to mobile gaming is evident. Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has publicly stated that mobile capabilities were a key factor in the Activision Blizzard acquisition. Microsoft aims to bolster its mobile presence, recognizing mobile gaming as a major growth area. This strategy includes developing its own mobile game store to compete with Apple and Google, with a potential launch sooner than previously anticipated.

Exploring a More Efficient Development Model

The creation of this new team also reflects Microsoft's response to rising AAA game development costs. By employing smaller teams within its larger structure, Microsoft aims to experiment with a more efficient development model.

Speculation abounds regarding the team's projects. Potential candidates include mobile adaptations of franchises like World of Warcraft (similar to League of Legends: Wild Rift) or Overwatch, mirroring the success of Apex Legends Mobile or Call of Duty: Mobile. The possibilities are exciting for fans of these iconic game worlds.