The prospect of Overwatch coming to mobile devices has long been considered a distant dream, particularly after insights from Jason Schreier's book on Blizzard hinted that a mobile version had been shelved. However, a recent agreement between Korean developer Nexon and Blizzard could reignite hopes for Overwatch on mobile platforms.
The primary focus of this deal revolves around securing the publishing and development rights for a new installment in the renowned StarCraft real-time strategy (RTS) series. The competition was intense, with other notable companies like Krafton and Netmarble also vying for the opportunity. If the deal is finalized, Nexon will take the helm in steering future developments in the StarCraft franchise.
What's stirring the most excitement and curiosity, however, are the reports suggesting that the bidding also encompassed the publishing rights for an Overwatch mobile game. This development seemingly breathes new life into the mobile port, hinting at the possibility of an official sequel in the form of a Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA).
This wouldn't mark the first foray of Overwatch into the MOBA genre, as Blizzard previously promoted Heroes of the Storm aggressively. It's conceivable that Heroes of the Storm could be adapted for mobile, and this might be what the proposed Overwatch MOBA entails.
Alternatively, a spin-off release seems equally plausible. However, the notion of this becoming 'Overwatch 3' can be safely dismissed, as it would represent a significant shift for a franchise that has primarily catered to console and PC gamers.
Embracing its clear MOBA inspirations could be advantageous for Overwatch, especially with new competitors like Marvel Rivals potentially overshadowing it. This might be the moment for Blizzard and their publishing partners to take bold steps to revitalize this once-thriving franchise.
