Microsoft Activision Aims to Make AA Games of AAA IPs

Microsoft and Activision Blizzard: A New Strategy for Mobile Gaming Domination

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 games based on established franchises. This strategic move aims to leverage King's mobile gaming expertise and expand Microsoft's presence in the lucrative mobile market.

King's Mobile Expertise Fuels Blizzard's AA Ambitions

According to reports from Windows Central, this new team will focus on developing AA titles, characterized by their smaller budgets and scope compared to AAA releases. King's proven success with mobile hits like Candy Crush and Farm Heroes makes them ideal candidates to lead this endeavor. Past experience with titles such as Crash Bandicoot: On the Run! (though since discontinued) and planned Call of Duty mobile projects (status unclear) demonstrates their capabilities in adapting established IPs for mobile platforms.

Microsoft's Mobile Push: A Key Strategic Element

Microsoft's commitment to mobile gaming is undeniable. Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, highlighted mobile's crucial role in Xbox's future growth, emphasizing it as the driving force behind the Activision Blizzard acquisition. The acquisition isn't solely about adding new games to existing platforms, but about gaining a significant foothold in the mobile gaming market. This strategy is further reinforced by Microsoft's development of a competing mobile app store, aiming to challenge Apple and Google's dominance. While details remain scarce, Spencer hints at a relatively swift release, dispelling concerns of a lengthy development period.

Addressing AAA Development Costs: A New Approach

The escalating costs associated with AAA game development have prompted Microsoft to explore alternative models. The formation of this new team represents an experiment in leveraging smaller, more agile teams within the larger corporate structure to create profitable mobile titles.

Speculation abounds regarding the projects this team might undertake. Potential candidates include mobile adaptations of popular franchises like World of Warcraft, mirroring the success of League of Legends: Wild Rift, or a mobile Overwatch experience similar to Apex Legends Mobile or Call of Duty: Mobile. The future remains exciting, with the potential for innovative and engaging mobile experiences based on beloved Blizzard IPs.