Ahri's unqualified thoughts #59

Easy to consume content: 1 quote, 1 tweet/storm and 1 article/video.

In this edition, we're showcasing one of the most unintentionally funny tweets that I read in a long time—and we're also diving into an article about Blizzard's prospects under the Xbox umbrella.

1 quote

“When friendships are real, they are not glass threads or frost work, but the solidest things we can know.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

1 tweet/storm

After announcing some incredible financial results for the latest quarter, Nintendo followed up with a one-two punch by revealing plans for a live-action "The Legend of Zelda" film. In addition to the official press release, the Japanese Twitter account shared a tweet that provided more laughs than it probably intended due to its structure.

Regardless, I'm thrilled to see this project come to life. It's also known that Sony Pictures will be collaborating with them, co-financing the film.

1 article/video

In his Bloomberg piece, journalist Jason Schreier provides an insightful look into Blizzard's initial phase under Microsoft's freshly approved acquisition.

When the green light was given, Phil Spencer didn't waste any time; he visited Blizzard's campus. The teams there anticipated a heavy focus on business during his visit, but Spencer's agenda was quite different – he was there to connect with the staff and get hands-on with the games.

“What they were trying to communicate to us was really wanting to get to know us,” said John Hight, general manager of the Warcraft franchise. “‘We’re not here to tell you what to do. We’re not coming in with a master plan. How can we help you?’ It was awesome.”

There's a strong sense of optimism among Blizzard employees that Microsoft's leadership could herald a return to the studio's more independent roots. Blizzard President Mike Ybarra conveyed in an interview that Spencer is keen on Blizzard reclaiming the more autonomous identity it once held.

Schreier's article highlights the dramatic shift from the days of Activision's control to Spencer's more hands-off style of management.

From my perspective, the trajectory of World of Warcraft has been incredibly satisfying in recent months. Dragonflight has been outstanding, with each new update reinforcing my affection for Warcraft as my all-time favorite franchise.

I'd rather not give away too much of Schreier's article here. Instead, I invite you to read it through this link, which I can share courtesy of my Bloomberg subscription.

And now, excuse me, I am back to playing WoW patch 10.2 which released today.