Marvel Snap got caught up in the TikTok ban; so what does this mean for us?

The weekend’s biggest news story was undoubtedly TikTok's temporary ban in the United States. Following a congressional act labeling it a "foreign adversary controlled application," the ban went into effect on Sunday. However, President-elect Donald Trump quickly pledged to reinstate it, and ByteDance swiftly reversed the ban. But this wasn't the end of the story.

Other ByteDance subsidiaries also felt the impact. Marvel Snap, the popular card battler, and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, among others, were also pulled from US app stores. The message from ByteDance was clear: an all-or-nothing approach to its app availability.

Surprisingly, developer Second Dinner reportedly received no prior warning. They've since been scrambling to reassure players on Twitter, promising Marvel Snap's swift return and offering compensation for lost playtime. This incident raises significant concerns.

ByteDance's decision to temporarily remove TikTok, framing President-elect Trump as its potential savior, was a calculated move to generate publicity. This strategy proved successful, securing TikTok's reinstatement. However, this political maneuver inadvertently ensnared other gaming titles, leaving developers like Second Dinner in a difficult position.

While Second Dinner is unlikely to sever ties with ByteDance, this incident likely eroded trust. The situation highlights the potential for mobile gaming to be overshadowed by ByteDance's social media priorities.

This isn't the first time ByteDance has prioritized social media over gaming. In 2023, significant layoffs within their gaming division resulted in numerous project cancellations. While Marvel Snap’s success suggested a shift towards partnerships, this recent event could deter future collaborations. Disney, particularly, might be reconsidering their involvement given the recent success of NetEase's Marvel Rivals.

The impact extends beyond ByteDance. Tencent, NetEase, and other Chinese gaming companies could face similar scrutiny. The FTC's actions against MiHoYo regarding loot boxes further illustrate the growing pressure on the industry. ByteDance's gamble, though successful, sets a troubling precedent.

The temporary removal of Marvel Snap highlighted the vulnerability of gaming to political maneuvering. The public's reaction underscores the potential for backlash when popular games become pawns in geopolitical games. The consequences of such actions could be far-reaching and unpredictable.