Unveiling the Inner Workings of Tencent

As one of the world's largest video-game companies, Tencent has a significant presence in the gaming industry, with a portfolio that includes Riot Games, Funcom, and Supercell. However, the company has also been known for being somewhat secretive. In a rare interview, Yong-yi Zhu, VP and head of business operations, strategy, and compliance at Tencent Games, offers insight into the company's efforts to become more open and transparent. Zhu explains that this shift is driven by the need to attract talent and showcase the company's diverse range of games and services. Tencent's aggressive acquisition strategy has led to some wariness in the West, but Zhu emphasizes that the company's focus is on supporting developers and creating new experiences. He also highlights the potential for cross-pollination between Eastern and Western developers, citing the success of games like Black Myth: Wukong and Genshin Impact. Zhu notes that Tencent is committed to maintaining its Western presence, with a focus on developing new IP, gameplay, and audiences. The company is also exploring the use of AI in game development, with a focus on enabling developers to build better worlds and more interesting gameplay. Ultimately, Zhu sees the future of the gaming industry shifting towards mobile and PC, with a greater emphasis on accessibility and flexibility.