EVA

Is Destiny doomed? King on AI, layoffs and more, plus March's top games, data, soft launches, more

The mobile games industry continues to navigate a complex landscape defined by shifting monetization strategies, the integration of artificial intelligence, and intense market competition.

• Microfun’s Gossip Harbor reached $100 million in monthly in-app purchase revenue for the first time in March, marking a significant increase from $82.5 million in February and positioning it to potentially overtake Candy Crush Saga as the top-grossing puzzle game.
• King VP Eva Ryott defended the company's use of AI as a supporting tool for level management rather than a direct replacement for staff, while noting that workforce adjustments following 200 layoffs were necessary to maintain competitive relevance.
• Candy Crush Saga has adopted a 2x2 matching mechanic, a feature King implemented within the last year to align with evolving market standards and compete against rivals like Royal Match and Gossip Harbor.