Tencent, the world’s largest gaming company by revenue, is reportedly working on a mobile adaptation of Elden Ring, following its increased stake in FromSoftware, the game’s developer. According to Reuters, Tencent acquired the licensing rights for the game in 2022 and has been developing a prototype for a mobile version. The company aims to shift from a one-time purchase model to a free-to-play system with in-app purchases, similar to Genshin Impact, which is on track to hitting $10 billion USD in revenue globally.  

A recent report revealed that Elden Ring’s producer, Hidetaka Miyazaki, was seen visiting Tencent’s office in Shenzhen. While the purpose of the visit remains undisclosed, it has further fueled speculation regarding Tencent’s plans for the mobile adaptation. Miyazaki, also the president of FromSoftware, is known for his hands-on approach to game development, making his visit to Tencent a notable event.

Tencent initially acquired a 16.25% stake in FromSoftware in 2022 as part of a funding round by FromSoftware’s parent company, Kadokawa Corp. Sony also acquired a 14.09% stake, while Kadokawa retained the majority share. Tencent’s growing influence in FromSoftware signals its strategic push to capitalize on Elden Ring’s success by expanding the franchise beyond consoles and PC.

Developing a mobile version of Elden Ring presents challenges, as the game’s core experience is built around deep exploration, intricate combat, and a vast open world. Adapting it to mobile while maintaining its integrity—and making it commercially viable under a free-to-play model—will be a complex task. While Tencent’s expertise in mobile gaming makes it a strong candidate for such a transition, diehard fans aren’t particularly keen about the idea. 

On Weibo, some say pigeonholing the game to a mobile setting is a disservice to its console-primed lush graphics and immersive gameplay, while others assume Tencent will get too hands-on with the creative process and possibly diluting the essence of the game.

With Miyazaki’s visit to Tencent’s headquarters and ongoing mobile development efforts, it remains to be seen how Elden Ring will evolve on mobile. Both FromSoftware and Tencent have yet to confirm the project publicly. If successful, it could set a new benchmark for AAA mobile gaming adaptations. If not, the backlash from the Elden Ring community will certainly be loud and clear. 

In other gaming news, we recently explored the decline and evolution of the classic after-school haven: the Internet Cafe, and if you’re interested in what the 10 most epic upcoming Chinese Games this year (think, the next Black Myth: Wukong), check out our list here.

Banner image via FromSoftware.