Marvel Snap, a popular superhero card game, experienced unexpected downtime last week following a temporary TikTok ban in the United States. The interruption was linked to its publisher Nuverse, a subsidiary of ByteDance, the company behind TikTok. As a result, the game’s developers are taking decisive steps to regain control and ensure stability moving forward.
Until now, Marvel Snap relied on Nuverse for publishing, leveraging Nuverse’s extensive experience in the market. Transitioning to in-house operations aims to provide the developers with more control over game management and user engagement. Such a change mirrors trends where game studios opt for direct publishing to better align with their strategic goals.
Why Did Marvel Snap Go Offline?
The game was taken offline during a brief TikTok ban in the US, which affected platforms associated with ByteDance. Although TikTok’s ban lasted only 12 hours, Marvel Snap remained unavailable on PC for 24 hours and was removed from app stores for a week, returning on January 27.
Who is Taking Over Publishing Duties?
Second Dinner, the studio behind Marvel Snap, announced plans to handle most operational and publishing responsibilities in-house. They are partnering with Skystone Games, a US-based publisher founded in 2020 by former Blizzard executive David Brevik.
“To ensure this never happens again, and with the help of our current publisher Nuverse (Thank you!), we’ve already signed agreements and started the work to bring almost all operational and publishing responsibilities in-house at Second Dinner with support from a new U.S.-based publisher, Skystone Games,” Second Dinner posted. “This has been a full-team effort between Second Dinner, Nuverse, Skystone and Marvel. Thank you again for all of your support—we’re excited about what’s ahead for Marvel Snap!”
How Are Players Being Affected?
The unexpected downtime prompted many players to request compensatory items. Second Dinner responded by offering free in-game rewards such as XP and Spotlight Keys to affected users in the US. This gesture aims to maintain player trust and satisfaction amidst the disruptions.
With Marvel Snap taking greater control over its operations, the development team aims to minimize future disruptions and enhance the gaming experience. Partnering with Skystone Games brings fresh expertise, potentially broadening the game’s reach and stability. Players can expect more responsive updates and support as Second Dinner navigates this new publishing strategy.
