Microsoft expands mobile ambitions, considers new studio acquisitions

Microsoft is exploring additional acquisitions in the mobile gaming space to enhance its global reach and diversify its gaming portfolio. Following the high-profile acquisition of King, the creator of Candy Crush Saga, as part of its $69 billion Activision Blizzard deal, Microsoft’s gaming division is eyeing further strategic moves to solidify its mobile presence. In an interview with Bloomberg, Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, explained that the company is particularly interested in acquiring studios that bring “geographic diversity,” with a strong focus on Asia, a market central to the mobile gaming industry’s growth.

However, Spencer clarified that while Microsoft is eager to expand, no immediate acquisitions are planned. The company is currently focused on the integration of Activision Blizzard’s teams and resources. Spencer also hinted at potential partnerships with Chinese developers and publishers, underscoring Microsoft’s interest in the lucrative Asian gaming market. The recent mobile release of Age of Empires marks one such step in deepening Microsoft’s engagement with Asian gaming communities.

Spencer further emphasized the company’s long-term vision to reach more players by adopting innovative business models and expanding beyond traditional consoles. “We’re not going to grow the market with $1,000 consoles,” he stated, acknowledging the need for accessible gaming experiences across various platforms and price points. By prioritizing mobile, Microsoft aims to cater to a broader audience and adapt to the changing landscape of the gaming industry.

The conversation also touched on Microsoft’s upcoming Xbox marketplace for mobile games, initially announced in May with an anticipated launch in July. Although the release has been delayed, Spencer assured that Microsoft remains committed to creating a mobile gaming store, while actively monitoring the regulatory conditions for distributing apps outside of major stores like Google Play and the App Store. He noted that Microsoft’s approach might involve a web-based store that offers players more flexibility in downloading games, though he acknowledged that visibility remains a challenge: “If we’re just hoping, like, if we build it, they will come, I’m going to bet that doesn’t work.”