As ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, reportedly prepares to restructure its gaming division and move away from mainstream gaming, Marvel Snap developers Second Dinner offer reassurances to the game’s community about its future.
ByteDance, a major player in the digital realm primarily known for TikTok, seems to be revising its strategy in the gaming sector. Recent reports suggest that the company is planning to exit the mainstream gaming market, a decision that has raised concerns about the fate of several games under its wing, including the popular digital card game Marvel Snap.
Launched just last year, Marvel Snap, developed by Second Dinner and published by Nuverse (a ByteDance subsidiary), gained traction for its engaging gameplay and fast-paced matches.
Despite its growing cult following, Marvel Snap’s financial success has not met the expectations set by ByteDance, prompting reconsideration of its investment in mainstream gaming.
The Restructuring Process and Its Impact
ByteDance’s reported restructuring involves significant changes to its gaming division, including hundreds of staff layoffs. Nuverse, acquired by ByteDance in 2019, expanded its portfolio by purchasing developer C4games in 2021, known for the mobile game Red Alert Online. However, the broader financial performance of these acquisitions appears to be underwhelming, leading to ByteDance’s decision to refocus its efforts.
ByteDance is also reportedly seeking a buyer for Moonton Technology, another developer under its umbrella, and has recently downsized its VR arm, Pico. The company’s casual games division, Ohayoo, along with its library of games integrated into TikTok and Douyin, is expected to remain unaffected by these changes.
Second Dinner’s Response and Assurance
Dear SNAPPERS,
Some of our players have expressed their concerns regarding reported structural changes at Nuverse.
We wish to thank you for your concern and assure you that regardless of any changes at Nuverse, SNAP will continue to operate and flourish in the future!— MARVEL SNAP (@MARVELSNAP) November 27, 2023
Amidst the uncertainty surrounding ByteDance’s gaming ventures, Second Dinner, the team behind Marvel Snap, addressed the community’s concerns directly.
Through the official Marvel Snap X account, they reassured players that regardless of any changes at Nuverse, Marvel Snap will continue to operate and thrive. This statement aims to alleviate fears about the game’s future and reinforces Second Dinner’s commitment to maintaining and evolving the Marvel Snap experience.