Microsoft Layoffs Strike Call of Duty Warzone Mobile Amid Disappointment

Microsoft's recent layoffs have significantly impacted the teams behind Activision Blizzard's mobile games, specifically Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile and Warcraft Rumble. With 650 additional layoffs reported, the total number of job cuts since the $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard now stands at 2,550. While Spencer assured that no games would be canceled or studios closed, reports indicate that both mobile titles did not meet performance expectations. Although Warzone Mobile remains operational, its development team is being scaled down. Warcraft Rumble, which launched successfully but has since seen reduced interest, is also transitioning to post-launch operations, with its team facing similar cuts. As Microsoft continues to navigate the gaming landscape, its acquisition of Activision Blizzard raises questions about the future of its mobile gaming ambitions.

The impact of Microsoft layoffs on Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile includes a significant reduction in its development team, indicating that the game did not meet Activision's performance expectations despite remaining operational.

Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile launched in March 2023, providing a battle royale experience designed for mobile devices with up to 120 players. It offers cross-progression with console and PC versions, aiming to extend the popular Call of Duty franchise into mobile gaming. However, despite being a promising addition to Activision's portfolio, the response from gamers has been lukewarm compared to its predecessor, Call of Duty Mobile, which achieved remarkable success with over 650 million downloads. With Activision Blizzard's focus on mobile expansion, the underperformance of Warzone Mobile is a setback for Microsoft’s broader gaming strategy.