In this week’s roundup: fresh investment activity in Vietnam’s mobile sector, Tencent’s reported interest in Block Blast! developer Hungry Studio, and SYBO’s global launch of Subway Surfers City.

Replay Global backs Vietnam-Based Playard to accelerate mobile games growth

Replay Global has made a strategic investment in Vietnam-based mobile developer Playard to support expansion of its production capabilities and game portfolio. The studio will use the funding to scale operations, strengthen its development pipeline, and pursue broader international opportunities, underscoring growing investor interest in Southeast Asia’s mobile games sector.

Why this matters: Vietnam continues to emerge as a competitive mobile development hub, and external capital entering the ecosystem signals sustained confidence in the region’s talent base and scalable studio models.

Tencent reportedly in talks to take stake in Block Blast! developer Hungry Studio

Tencent is reportedly in discussions to acquire a minority stake in Hungry Studio, the Hong Kong-based developer behind the hit puzzle title Block Blast!. The game has achieved significant global traction in the casual category, positioning Hungry Studio as one of the fastest-rising players in mobile puzzle. A Tencent investment would align the title with one of the industry’s largest strategic backers.

Why this matters: Increased Tencent exposure to high-performing casual puzzle IP reinforces ongoing consolidation trends and highlights the continued commercial strength of mass-market puzzle games.

SYBO launches Subway Surfers City globally, expanding Its flagship franchise

SYBO has launched Subway Surfers City worldwide on iOS and Android, introducing new districts, enhanced traversal mechanics, updated progression systems, and expanded live-service features. The release builds on the enduring success of the original Subway Surfers, one of mobile gaming’s most downloaded titles, and represents a significant evolution of the endless runner formula.

Why this matters: The launch illustrates how established mobile franchises are being retooled with deeper systems and live-service mechanics to extend lifecycle value and compete in a more mature market.