The Roundup: Blizzard Backs Off Rumble, GTA 6 App Rumours Rise, Mobile Gaming Set to Hit $126B

The Roundup: Blizzard Backs Off Rumble, GTA 6 App Rumours Rise, Mobile Gaming Set to Hit $126B image
By Mariam Ahmad 4 July 2025

Today’s Roundup: Blizzard has officially halted all new development on Warcraft Rumble, shifting the mobile title into maintenance mode after internal layoffs. Speculation builds around GTA 6 as Rockstar’s recent job listing suggests a mobile companion app may be in the works. Meanwhile, a new industry report projects mobile gaming revenue will hit $126 billion in 2025, driven by hybrid monetization models and stronger direct-to-consumer strategies. 

 

Blizzard winds down Warcraft Rumble development

Blizzard has ceased all feature development for Warcraft Rumble, placing the game into maintenance mode. The decision follows Microsoft’s layoffs of roughly 100 Blizzard employees, many of whom worked on the title. Launched in 2023 after nearly a decade of development, Rumble failed to meet internal performance expectations. Blizzard confirmed the game will continue receiving bug fixes and limited live service support. This shift mirrors past wind-downs like Heroes of the Storm. The move reflects changing priorities under Microsoft’s post-acquisition strategy.

Rockstar job listing hints at GTA 6 companion app on mobile

A new Rockstar Games job posting has reignited speculation about a mobile companion app for Grand Theft Auto VI. The listing seeks engineers with experience in mobile feature integration and live services. Fans believe the app could include real-time map access, in-game commerce tools, and interactive media mimicking social platforms. Companion apps were previously released for GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2, though with mixed reception. Rockstar has not officially confirmed any such project.

Mobile gaming revenue forecast to hit $126 billion in 2025

A new report from Xsolla projects global mobile gaming revenue will reach $126 billion in 2025. The forecast attributes growth to hybrid monetization models and increased direct-to-consumer sales following changes in platform regulations. While overall mobile app downloads declined in 2024, consumer spending rose, signaling deeper engagement with fewer titles. The report also notes that most new games fail to generate over $1 million in revenue. Industry consolidation and focus on high-retention titles are expected to continue.

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