Rumors Hint at Activision Forming a New Blizzard Team For Smaller Games

In a surprising turn of events, Activision Blizzard is reportedly shaking things up in the world of game development. Industry insiders suggest that the gaming giant is forming a new team within Blizzard, aimed at creating smaller, more agile projects based on beloved franchises like Warcraft, Diablo, and Overwatch.

A New Direction for Blizzard

According to well-known industry insider Jez Corden, this new initiative brings together talent from various parts of Activision, with a significant number of employees from King Digital Entertainment joining the ranks.

King, best known for the mobile sensation Candy Crush, brings a wealth of experience in creating engaging, bite-sized gaming experiences.

This move signals a potentially exciting shift in Activision Blizzard’s strategy, especially following the company’s acquisition by Microsoft. It seems the tech giant is keen on leveraging the vast catalog of IPs it gained through the $68 billion deal.

What This Means for Gamers

For fans of Blizzard’s iconic franchises, this development could mean:

1. More frequent releases: Smaller teams often work faster, potentially leading to more regular game launches.
2. Experimental gameplay: AA projects allow for more creative risks, possibly breathing new life into established universes.
3. Mobile-first experiences: Given King’s expertise, we might see more Blizzard franchises make their way to smartphones and tablets.

The Rise of AA Games

The focus on smaller, “AA” titles is part of a growing trend in the industry. These games, which sit between indie productions and big-budget AAA releases, often provide:

• Innovation: Less financial risk allows for more experimental gameplay mechanics.
• Focused experiences: Tighter scopes can lead to more polished, cohesive games.
• Faster development cycles: Smaller teams can often iterate and release games more quickly.

What’s Next for Blizzard?

While official confirmation from Activision Blizzard is still pending, this move could signify a new era for the company. We may see:

• Revival of dormant franchises: Could this mean a return of StarCraft in a new form?
• Spin-offs of popular series: Maybe a roguelike set in the Diablo universe or a narrative adventure in Overwatch’s world?
• New IP designed for mobile-first: Blizzard might create entirely new franchises tailored for on-the-go gaming.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, it’s clear that even industry giants like Activision Blizzard are looking for ways to stay agile and innovative. This new team within Blizzard could be the key to unlocking new possibilities for some of gaming’s most beloved universes.

What are your thoughts on this development? Are you excited about the potential for more frequent, focused experiences in Blizzard’s worlds? Let us know in the comments below!