Tencent Removes DnF Mobile from Huawei, Oppo, and Vivo App Stores Amid Dispute

The removal of Dungeon & Fighter Mobile from app stores run by Huawei, Oppo, and Vivo marks a significant step in the ongoing dispute between Tencent and these prominent Chinese smartphone vendors. Less than a month after its launch, the move has surprised many in the mobile gaming industry.

The game, which was released on May 21, 2024, has rapidly gained popularity among mobile gamers. Notably, Dungeon & Fighter Mobile achieved record-breaking downloads and revenue on Apple's App Store in China. However, Android users will now need to shift their downloads to the official Tencent website amidst these changes.

Background of the Dispute

This recent development is part of a broader issue between major game developers like Tencent and key app distribution platforms. Often, these platforms take significant commissions, up to 50%, on gaming revenue, which can be a contentious point for developers. This dispute began earlier in January 2021, when Huawei and Tencent clashed, resulting in the temporary removal of Tencent’s games from Huawei's app store. Although the situation was resolved through 'friendly negotiations,' recurring conflicts appear inevitable.

Impact on the Gaming Industry

The removal of Dungeon & Fighter Mobile from major Android app stores is expected to affect the gaming industry in diverse ways:

• Revenue Streams: Despite the need for users to switch their download source, the game's expected annual revenue, estimated by Jefferies to be around 6 billion yuan (approximately USD 827 million), reflects its significant market presence.
• Gaming Trends: Gamers might pivot towards other titles available on popular app stores, thereby impacting the user base and engagement metrics of Dungeon & Fighter Mobile.
• Market Dynamics: This move could influence how other game developers negotiate terms with app store operators, seeking fairer revenue-sharing agreements.

Tencent's Strategic Response

In response to the removal, Tencent has recommended that Android users download Dungeon & Fighter Mobile directly from its official website. This adjustment ensures that users can still access the game and complete necessary updates without interruption. However, the lack of immediate comment from Tencent on the underlying reasons for the removal leaves room for speculation within the industry.

Future Projections

The ongoing dispute and its resolution will likely shape the future of mobile gaming distribution in China. As developers like Tencent continue to negotiate with app stores, user engagement, revenue strategies, and market competition will evolve accordingly.

Ultimately, the gaming community remains optimistic that Dungeon & Fighter Mobile will maintain its momentum and user base, adapting to the challenges presented by app store dynamics and regulatory environments.