When it comes to genre-defining works, few would argue that Game of Thrones has become the quintessential example of dark medieval fantasy for modern audiences. Since the conclusion of the HBO miniseries, the iconic setting of Westeros has largely remained dormant, with the exception of the spin-off series House of the Dragon. However, fans of the franchise have something new to look forward to on the gaming front.
Netmarble's highly anticipated game, Game of Thrones: Kingsroad, is set to launch in early access on March 26th. The catch? It's exclusively available on Steam for now. This marks a significant shift for Netmarble, traditionally known for their focus on mobile gaming. Given the widespread appeal of the Game of Thrones universe, a successful Steam early access campaign could pave the way for a mobile release in the near future.
Netmarble's decision to launch on Steam first is intriguing, especially considering their history with mobile games. It's possible this move serves as a stress test, as PC players are often more critical of any perceived flaws in the gaming experience. However, this leaves mobile players, who have been more accepting of such games, waiting on the sidelines. This approach mirrors strategies seen with other titles like Once Human and Delta Force, suggesting a possible trend among companies traditionally focused on mobile gaming to prioritize PC releases.
Whether this indicates a broader shift towards PC-first strategies from mobile-centric companies remains to be seen. In the meantime, if you're eager to pass the time until Game of Thrones: Kingsroad hits mobile, why not check out our latest list of the top five new mobile games to try this week?
Insert Jon Snow knowing nothing joke here