ByteDance Shifts US Publishing to Skystone in Major Restructuring

Author : Blake May 22,2025

The mobile gaming industry has seen a significant shift this year, particularly with games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and Marvel Snap being affected by ByteDance's challenges in the US. Previously, ByteDance was the publisher for these titles, but due to political pressures and the looming TikTok ban, they've had to step back from publishing in the US market.

In a move that promises continuity for players, Skystone Games has stepped in to take over the publishing duties for these games. This change means that US players can expect to see new region-specific versions of their favorite games, ensuring that they can continue to enjoy titles like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and Marvel Snap without interruption.

ytTouch the skyThe transition from ByteDance to Skystone Games, while necessary, underscores the vulnerability of mobile games to political maneuvers. The abrupt removal of these games from app stores, often without prior notice, was a shock to both developers and players alike. It highlighted the broader implications of political decisions on the gaming world, turning beloved games into pawns in a larger geopolitical game.

For players, the news of Skystone taking over is a relief. It means they can continue playing their favorite games, possibly with enhanced features tailored to the US market. However, the underlying concern remains: the ease with which games can be caught up in political disputes is unsettling for the gaming community.

As the deadline for a potential TikTok sale approaches, the industry watches closely. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar situations are managed in the future, impacting not just social media apps but also the mobile games published by the same companies. The hope is for a stable and uninterrupted gaming experience, free from the turbulence of political battles.