Tencent Holdings, the Chinese IT giant and the largest gaming company by revenue, is pursuing a mobile version of Elden Ring. Reports from Reuters indicate that Tencent is actively shaping a smartphone port of the acclaimed action RPG, aiming to bring the dark fantasy world of Elden Ring to mobile players worldwide, including audiences in Canada and the United States. The initiative underscores Tencent’s ongoing strategy to expand its footprint in mobile gaming and diversify its portfolio beyond PC and console platforms.
According to Reuters, Tencent secured the rights to develop the mobile port from FromSoftware, the creator of Elden Ring, in 2022. In the same strategic move, Tencent acquired a 16 percent stake in the Japanese studio, signaling a deepening collaboration and a long-term commitment to the franchise. This investment aligns with Tencent’s broader goal of harnessing established IPs to fuel mobile experiences that can compete in crowded markets.
Tencent is actively scouting for fresh mobile hits and has high expectations for Elden Ring. A dedicated team of several dozen developers is tasked with translating the console epic into a mobile experience that preserves its atmosphere, challenge, and sense of discovery. While specific project details remain under wraps, insiders say Tencent envisions Elden Ring as a rival to popular mobile titles such as Genshin Impact from miHoYo, achieved through strategic acquisitions and internal development efforts.
Reuters also notes that this is not Tencent’s first attempt to adapt a console hit for mobile devices. Previously, the company explored a mobile version of NieR Automata, but the project was ultimately canceled due to difficulties in establishing a monetization model that would sustain ongoing development and a viable revenue stream on mobile platforms.
Elden Ring stands as a landmark action role-playing game created by the studio behind the Dark Souls and Demon’s Souls series. Released in 2022, it rapidly captured the attention of players and critics alike, selling more than 20 million copies within its first year. The title also earned top honors at The Game Awards in the same year, taking home the Best Game accolade and solidifying its status as a defining entry in modern gaming.
Separately, Sony has announced an update intended to improve the performance of the PlayStation 5, signaling ongoing support for its flagship console as developers continue to optimize games and expand their features for next-generation hardware. This update highlights the broader industry context in which Tencent’s mobile ambitions sit, illustrating a landscape where publishers balance multi-platform strategies with lean, monetizable mobile experiences that can reach vast audiences.