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Skylanders Is Now A $1.5 Billion Franchise, Call Of Duty Strong, World Of Warcraft Subscriptions Down
In its second quarter 2013 financial earnings report, Activision has shared that Skylanders is now a $1.5 billion franchise worldwide. Additionally, the most recent entry, Skylanders Giants, was the best selling console and handheld game in the North America in Europe (financially).
Call of Duty: Black Ops II and Skylanders Giants were the top two best selling games in North America and Europe combined. World of Warcraft subscriptions have decreased to 7.7 million subscribers (down from 8.3 million in the first quarter), but is still the biggest MMO in the world.
Our Take
Skylanders has been a powerhouse for Activision, but Bobby Kotick mentioned on the earnings call that there are more titles this year competing in their space. He was no doubt referring to Disney Infinity. While the two games are very different, parents are going to see "the games with the toys." Further differentiation and continued strong marketing will be key for keeping the franchise strong with Skylanders: Swap Force
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