When it comes to genre-defining works, few would argue that Game of Thrones stands as the pinnacle of dark medieval fantasy for modern audiences. Since the conclusion of the HBO series, the rich world of Westeros has been largely quiet, with the exception of the spin-off series, House of the Dragon. However, fans can now look forward to diving back into this beloved universe through gaming, as Netmarble's eagerly anticipated title, Game of Thrones: Kingsroad, enters early access on March 26th. There's just one small catch for mobile enthusiasts: the game will initially be exclusive to Steam.
This move marks an intriguing shift for Netmarble, traditionally known for its focus on mobile gaming. The decision to launch Game of Thrones: Kingsroad on Steam first could be seen as a strategic move to leverage the massive appeal of the Game of Thrones franchise. A successful early access period on Steam might pave the way for a swift transition to mobile platforms, bringing the game to a broader audience sooner rather than later.
Insert Jon Snow knowing nothing joke here
Netmarble's decision to prioritize a PC launch might seem counterintuitive given their mobile-centric history. This could serve as a stress test, with PC gamers often providing more critical feedback on aspects that could impact the overall experience. However, this approach might leave mobile players, who have typically been more forgiving, feeling overlooked. This tactic mirrors recent moves by other companies with titles like Once Human and Delta Force, suggesting a possible trend towards PC-first releases among traditionally mobile-focused developers. It remains to be seen if this shift will become more pronounced.
While waiting for Game of Thrones: Kingsroad to make its way to mobile, why not explore some of the latest and greatest in mobile gaming? Check out our curated list of the top five new mobile games to try this week and keep yourself entertained until you can march into Westeros from your smartphone.