MSFT Activision Eyes Triple-A IP AA Games

Microsoft and Activision Blizzard: A New Approach to Game Development

A newly formed Blizzard team, primarily composed of King employees, is focusing on developing smaller-scale, AA games based on established franchises. This strategic move follows Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard in 2023, granting access to a wealth of popular IPs.

Leveraging King's Mobile Expertise

The initiative aims to create AA titles, characterized by lower budgets and development scopes compared to AAA releases. Given King's success with mobile games like Candy Crush, it's anticipated that this new team will concentrate on mobile game development. King's past experience with IP-based mobile games, such as the now-discontinued Crash Bandicoot: On the Run! and the still-in-development (though details are scarce) Call of Duty mobile title, provides a foundation for this endeavor. It's important to note that the Call of Duty mobile game is a separate project from this new team.

Microsoft's Mobile Gaming Ambitions

Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard was largely driven by a desire to bolster its mobile gaming capabilities, as highlighted by Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, at Gamescom 2023. He emphasized the significance of mobile gaming in Xbox's growth strategy, stating that the acquisition wasn't solely about adding new games to existing platforms, but about gaining a foothold in the mobile market. This strategy is further underscored by Microsoft's development of a competing mobile app store to challenge Apple and Google, with a projected launch timeline sooner than several years out, as suggested at CCXP 2023.

A Cost-Effective Approach to Game Development

The rising costs of AAA game development have prompted Microsoft to explore alternative models. By utilizing smaller, specialized teams within its larger structure, Microsoft aims to experiment with more efficient and cost-effective development processes.

Speculation and Potential Projects

While details remain confidential, the formation of this new team has sparked considerable fan speculation. Possible projects include scaled-down mobile versions of popular franchises like World of Warcraft (similar to League of Legends: Wild Rift) or a mobile Overwatch experience comparable to Apex Legends Mobile or Call of Duty: Mobile. The future of this initiative holds exciting possibilities for both Microsoft and its players.