Tencent Reportedly Developing Mobile Version of Elden Ring to Compete Against Genshin Impact
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Tencent, the renowned Chinese tech giant, is reportedly in the works to adapt the critically acclaimed action RPG "Elden Ring" into a mobile version. According to sources familiar with the matter, as reported by Reuters, Tencent acquired the licensing rights for "Elden Ring" from FromSoftware, in 2022. Since then, Tencent has assembled a team of several dozen individuals to embark on the creation of a prototype for the mobile adaptation. This initiative coincided with Tencent's acquisition of a 16% stake in FromSoftware. Here's all you need to know about Tencent's possible attempt at creating a FromSoft experience on mobile.
Tencent's Plans For The Mobile Version of Elden Ring
Elden Ring was a collaboration between renowned author George R. R. Martin and veteran game designer Hidetaka Miyazaki. The game garnered widespread acclaim upon its release in 2022. With its immersive fantasy world and intense action gameplay, the title quickly became one of the best-selling games of the year. With it boasting approximately 20 million copies sold within its first year.
While the original game followed a traditional model, Tencent reportedly aims to make it a free-to-play experience with in-app purchases. This draws inspiration from the success of titles like "Genshin Impact" developed by rival company miHoYo.
Tencent's Previous Attempts and Competition
This move is not without precedent. Tencent has ventured into adapting major console games for the mobile market before. However, such endeavors have met with varying degrees of success, with projects like the "Nier" franchise reportedly being canceled over concerns of monetization.
In the increasingly competitive gaming landscape, Tencent faces mounting pressure to deliver new hits to sustain growth. Despite continued success with titles like "PUBG Mobile," recent releases have failed to meet expectations. Tencent's gaming business, a cornerstone of its revenue, is under scrutiny, prompting the company to explore new avenues and strategies to maintain its position in the market.
The Risk of Turning Elden Ring into Another Mobile Game
Nevertheless, Tencent has committed to diversifying its gaming portfolio amid evolving market dynamics. As competition intensifies and growth in the gaming sector stabilizes, securing a new hit title becomes imperative for the company's continued success.
As of now, Tencent and FromSoftware have not officially commented on the development of the mobile version of "Elden Ring." The gaming community eagerly awaits updates on this ambitious project, poised to witness how Tencent navigates the challenges of adapting this beloved title for mobile platforms.
