"Game of Thrones: Kingsroad Now in Early Access on Steam"

When discussing genre-defining works, few would dispute that Game of Thrones has become the quintessential example of dark medieval fantasy for modern audiences. Since the conclusion of the HBO series, the world of Westeros has largely lain dormant, with the exception of the spin-off, House of the Dragon. However, that's about to change, at least in the gaming world, as Netmarble's highly anticipated Game of Thrones: Kingsroad is set to launch in early access on March 26th. There's just one caveat for mobile gamers: this initial release is exclusively on Steam.

This strategic move by Netmarble, a company traditionally focused on mobile gaming, is intriguing. Given the widespread appeal of Game of Thrones, a successful Steam early access could pave the way for a mobile release in the near future.

Insert Jon Snow knowing nothing joke here

Netmarble's decision to prioritize a PC launch over mobile is somewhat puzzling, especially considering their mobile-centric history. This could be a stress test, as PC gamers tend to scrutinize any potential disruptions to their gaming experience more intensely. Yet, this approach might leave mobile players, who have generally been more accommodating, feeling sidelined. This tactic mirrors what we've seen with other games like Once Human and Delta Force, where PC versions were prioritized over mobile.

Is this a sign of a broader shift towards PC-first strategies from traditionally mobile-focused companies? Only time will tell.

In the meantime, if you're eager to pass the time until Game of Thrones: Kingsroad hits mobile, why not explore some of the top five new mobile games highlighted in our latest list?