Finnish game developer Supercell is set to introduce Clash Royale as an installation-free minigame on Tencent-owned WeChat. According to reports, this new version is anticipated to launch in September, following the successful deployment of Brawl Stars, which is already available on the platform under the name Weixin.
Jakub Barczyk, Supercell’s business and operations lead for Clash of Clans, highlighted that this innovative approach aims to cater to both existing players and newcomers. The plan ensures that existing players can maintain their progress, while new users will enjoy a more accessible and streamlined gaming experience.
Barczyk emphasized the growing significance of WeChat minigames, citing the platform’s rapid expansion and the increasing appeal of lightweight, playable games. He mentioned that this strategy seeks to integrate Supercell’s well-known titles into the daily lives of Chinese users seamlessly, making classic gaming experiences easily accessible.
Supercell’s collaboration with Tencent is not new, as the Chinese giant acquired an 84% stake in the Finnish developer for $8.6 billion in 2016. Earlier this year, Tencent also took charge of publishing Squad Busters in China, although that title is still finding its footing in the market.
WeChat minigames have proven to be a major success since their inception in 2018, amassing 500 million monthly active users and over 300 titles generating more than ¥10 million ($1.4 million) in quarterly sales. Insights into WeChat minigames from game design expert Jakub Remiar last year further underscore the platform’s integral role in China’s dynamic gaming landscape.
This venture is a promising development for both Supercell and WeChat, showcasing the potential for further growth and engagement in the increasingly competitive gaming market in China. With the continued popularity of minigames, we can expect to see more innovative offerings and collaborations in the future.