Warner Bros. Discovery’s Gaming Strategy Focuses on Live-Service, Mobile, and Free-to-Play Games
During a recent Morgan Stanley speaking event, Warner Bros. Discovery gaming boss J.B. Perrette discussed some of the company’s strategy for gaming going forward, and it includes more live-service, mobile, and free-to-play games.
Perrette emphasized the company’s commitment to tapping into the growth opportunities in the gaming industry with their existing intellectual property and studio capabilities. He acknowledged the success of AAA console games like Hogwarts Legacy, but also highlighted the volatility of the market, citing the disappointment of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League.
To reduce volatility, Perrette outlined the plan to focus on core franchises and expand into the mobile and free-to-play spaces. Additionally, Warner Bros. Discovery will continue to invest in live-service games to drive consistent revenue. Perrette teased the upcoming release of new mobile free-to-play games this year, while reassuring fans that the company will still produce big single-player AAA games.
Perrette highlighted Warner Bros. Discovery’s position in the market with popular brands like Mortal Kombat, Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, and DC, as well as having 11 internal game development studios. He mentioned a strategic investment plan to enhance the success of future games and the addition of a brand management expert to ensure sustainability.
Looking ahead, Perrette expects gaming to contribute significant growth to the company in the coming years, with returns projected for 2025, 2026, and 2027. While uncertain of the evolving gaming landscape, he expressed confidence in the company’s ownership of intellectual property and studios to ensure success. Perrette also highlighted the potential of virtual reality and “virtual worlds” for future expansion.
Upcoming Warner Bros. Discovery video games include a Harry Potter Quidditch game and a Wonder Woman title from the creators of Shadow of Mordor.
Comparatively, Warner Bros. Discovery’s gaming approach differs from Disney’s, as Disney now focuses on licensing its franchises to other companies rather than developing games in-house. For instance, Disney recently paid Epic $1.5 billion to integrate its franchises into Fortnite. Disney also collaborates with various companies for Star Wars games and has partnerships with Microsoft/Bethesda for Indiana Jones and Blade.