Pixel P&L: Overwatch is Done, and Not Just on Steam

Blizzard Entertainment's Overwatch 2 is under pressure as Marvel Rivals disrupts the hero shooter market with a blockbuster debut. The game amassed over 10 million players within 72 hours of launch, a feat that highlights its appeal despite being criticized as a “copy” by Blizzard’s former president. This rapid adoption has outpaced Overwatch 2’s engagement metrics.

The numbers reveal the extent of the challenge. On Steam, Overwatch 2 saw concurrent player numbers dip to a record low of 16,919 on 9th December, while Marvel Rivals peaked at 480,990. Streaming viewership mirrored this trend, with Marvel Rivals drawing 275,521 peak viewers compared to Overwatch 2’s 48,558. The stark contrast raises questions about Blizzard’s ability to sustain engagement in a competitive landscape.

Blizzard is betting on its Season 14 update, which introduces a new hero and content to reignite interest. But it is unlikely for one small update to turn things around against what seems to be a much better hero shooter experience.

BITKRAFT Ventures, a leading seed-stage investor in interactive media, has appointed Anuj Tandon as Partner, marking its strategic entry into India. Tandon brings 15 years of experience as a gaming entrepreneur and investor, including leading KRAFTON’s $135 million investments in Indian startups such as FRND and Nodwin.

At BITKRAFT, Tandon will focus on early-stage investments in AI, games technology, and interactive media. His appointment positions the venture capital firm as one of the first global gaming investors to establish a significant presence in India.

Jens Hilgers, BITKRAFT’s Founding General Partner, said Tandon’s market insight is critical for identifying top entrepreneurs and expanding the firm’s footprint in the region.

Tencent, Guillemot Family Clash Over Ubisoft’s Future Amid Buyout Negotiations

According to Reuters, Ubisoft Entertainment SA’s shareholders are exploring a management-led buyout to protect the Guillemot family’s control. Talks involve Tencent, Ubisoft’s second-largest shareholder, which seeks a greater board role. Shares jumped 12% on the news. Minority investors, frustrated by declining stock value, have pushed for strategic alternatives.

Pokémon Company, Skyesports Launch Pokémon UNITE Winter Tournament India 2025

The grassroots esports event will feature a $10,000 prize pool and is offering winners a spot in the Pokémon UNITE Asia Champions League Finals in Japan. The initiative aims to strengthen Pokémon UNITE’s competitive scene in India, building on momentum from the ongoing ACL India League.

Google’s AI Can Now Generate Infinite 3D Game Worlds from a Single Prompt

Google has unveiled Genie 2, an artificial intelligence system capable of generating unlimited interactive 3D environments from a single image prompt. The tool enables game developers to swiftly prototype complex scenes—complete with physics, lighting, and interactive elements—across various perspectives. While still early-stage, Genie 2’s potential to streamline production pipelines and support rapid iteration may shape future workflows and accelerate innovation in the global gaming industry.