Tencent, a leading Chinese technology company, has reportedly secured a majority stake in Kuro Games, the developer behind the popular titles Wuthering Waves and Punishing: Gray Raven. This acquisition significantly alters the landscape for both companies.
Tencent's Increased Stake in Kuro Games
Majority Ownership Secured
Tencent's share in Kuro Games has risen to approximately 37%, granting them a controlling interest. With a total of 51.4% ownership following the departure of other shareholders, Tencent now holds the majority stake and is Kuro Games' sole external investor. This follows an initial investment made by Tencent in 2023.
Maintaining Independence
According to reports from Chinese news outlet Youxi Putao, Kuro Games will maintain its operational independence. This mirrors Tencent's approach with other successful studios like Riot Games (developers of League of Legends and Valorant) and Supercell (Clash of Clans and Brawl Stars). Kuro Games' official statement emphasizes that this acquisition will foster a "more stable external environment" and support its long-term independent growth strategy. Tencent has yet to publicly acknowledge the acquisition.
Kuro Games' Success
Kuro Games is a prominent Chinese game developer known for its action RPG Punishing: Gray Raven and the recently released open-world RPG Wuthering Waves. Both games have achieved remarkable success, each generating over $120 million USD in revenue and continuing to receive regular updates. Wuthering Waves has even earned a Players' Voice nomination at The Game Awards.