Microsoft Activision Aims to Make AA Games of AAA IPs

Microsoft and Activision Team Up for Smaller-Scale Games

Microsoft Activision Aims to Make AA Games of AAA IPs A new Blizzard team, primarily composed of King employees, is focusing on developing AA-tier games based on established franchises. This strategic move follows Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard, granting access to a wealth of popular IPs.

King's Mobile Expertise Fuels Blizzard's New Direction

Microsoft Activision Aims to Make AA Games of AAA IPs According to Windows Central's Jez Corden, this initiative aims to leverage King's mobile game development expertise to create smaller-scale titles. King's track record with mobile hits like Candy Crush suggests a focus on mobile platforms for these new projects. Past experiences, such as the now-discontinued Crash Bandicoot: On the Run! and the still-unreleased Call of Duty mobile game (developed by a separate team), provide valuable insight into this strategy.

Microsoft's Mobile Ambitions Drive the Strategy

Microsoft Activision Aims to Make AA Games of AAA IPs Microsoft's commitment to mobile gaming is clear. Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, highlighted mobile as a key driver behind the Activision Blizzard acquisition, emphasizing the lack of mobile capabilities within Xbox's existing portfolio. This new team directly addresses that gap. Furthermore, Microsoft's development of a competing mobile app store underscores their larger mobile ambitions. Spencer hinted at a relatively near launch timeframe for this store at CCXP 2023.

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Game Development

Microsoft Activision Aims to Make AA Games of AAA IPs The rising costs of AAA game development are prompting Microsoft to explore alternative approaches. Smaller, more focused teams are being used to experiment with different development models.

While details remain scarce, speculation is rife regarding the team's projects. Potential candidates include mobile versions of established franchises, mirroring successful mobile adaptations like League of Legends: Wild Rift. A mobile Overwatch experience or a new approach to a Call of Duty mobile title are also possibilities.