Activision Releases Plans for Expansion into AA Gaming

Microsoft and Activision Blizzard's New Team Targets Mobile Gaming Domination

Microsoft and Activision have formed a new team within Blizzard, primarily composed of King employees, to develop smaller-scale, AA games based on existing franchises. This strategic move follows Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard in 2023, granting them access to a vast portfolio of popular IPs.

This initiative aims to leverage King's mobile game expertise to create AA titles for mobile platforms. King's past experience with mobile adaptations of existing IPs, such as the now-discontinued Crash Bandicoot: On the Run!, informs this strategy. While a Call of Duty mobile game was announced in 2017, its current status remains uncertain.

Microsoft's Focus on Mobile

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 mobile gaming's pivotal role in Xbox's growth strategy. This strategic push is further reinforced by Microsoft's development of a competing mobile app store, anticipated to launch sooner rather than later.

Addressing the High Cost of AAA Development

The rising costs associated with AAA game development have prompted Microsoft to explore alternative approaches. This new team represents a move towards smaller, more agile development, potentially leading to more frequent releases and reduced risk.

Speculation and Potential Projects

The formation of this new team has sparked considerable speculation among fans. Potential projects could include mobile adaptations of popular franchises like World of Warcraft, mirroring the success of League of Legends: Wild Rift, or a mobile Overwatch experience comparable to Apex Legends Mobile or Call of Duty: Mobile. The possibilities are vast given the wealth of IPs at their disposal.