TikTok's weekend ban dominated headlines, but the fallout extended beyond the social media giant. Top games, including Marvel Snap, were also caught in the crossfire, raising serious concerns for developers.
The temporary US ban on TikTok, anticipated due to a congressional act labeling it a foreign adversary-controlled application, finally materialized on Sunday. While President-elect Trump swiftly intervened, reinstating the app, other ByteDance-affiliated apps haven't experienced such a smooth recovery.
Marvel Snap, a popular card battler, and other titles from ByteDance subsidiaries like Moonton's Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, were abruptly pulled from US services. The message from ByteDance was clear: an all-or-nothing approach.
The situation left developer Second Dinner scrambling. Unforewarned about the ban, they've been working to restore service and compensate players. While a departure from ByteDance seems unlikely, this incident likely damaged their trust. The episode highlights the perceived prioritization of ByteDance's social media platforms over its gaming ventures.
ByteDance's strategy with TikTok, portraying Trump as a savior, proved effective. However, this political maneuver inadvertently ensnared its gaming partners. Second Dinner, for example, is now offering in-game rewards to mitigate player frustration.
This isn't ByteDance's first misstep in the gaming sector. Significant layoffs in 2023 shuttered numerous projects. While Marvel Snap initially suggested a shift towards partnerships, this latest incident casts doubt on that strategy. Potential partners will undoubtedly be wary of future political risks. Disney, too, might be concerned, especially given the recent success of NetEase's Marvel Rivals.
The TikTok ban might just be the beginning. Tencent, NetEase, and other Chinese gaming companies could face similar scrutiny. The FTC's actions against MiHoYo demonstrate the growing pressure. The Marvel Snap situation serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the vulnerability of gaming companies to political maneuvering.
The unexpected impact on Marvel Snap players, many of whom were initially unconcerned about TikTok, underscores the broader implications. The incident raises serious questions about the future of gaming and its susceptibility to political whims. The potential for widespread backlash is significant.