Los Angeles, CA – After being absent from the Chinese market for nearly a year and a half, Blizzard Entertainment has announced its return in the summer of 2024. This comeback comes as a result of a new agreement between Blizzard, Microsoft, and NetEase, allowing Chinese players access to beloved titles such as Overwatch, Diablo, and World of Warcraft.
The hiatus of Blizzard’s games in China began in January 2023 when a publishing deal between NetEase and Blizzard fell through. However, with the recent agreement in place, both companies are now working towards relaunching the games. Details about the re-release are expected to be disclosed at a later date.
Microsoft’s Phil Spencer expressed excitement over the renewed partnership with NetEase, highlighting the commitment to bringing Blizzard’s iconic games back to Chinese players. Spencer emphasized the importance of expanding gaming opportunities to a global audience, with a focus on introducing new titles to Xbox and other platforms.
This development follows a period of disagreement between Blizzard and NetEase that arose in November 2022 when their original publishing contract was set to expire. Despite disagreements and finger-pointing between the companies, including allegations of a failed deal extension due to a specific individual, Blizzard remained dedicated to finding alternative paths back to the Chinese market.
With the new agreement in place, Blizzard aims to reignite its presence in China, catering to millions of eager gamers in the region. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, partnerships like the one between Microsoft, Blizzard, and NetEase demonstrate a commitment to expanding access to diverse gaming experiences globally.
For freelance writer George Yang, who has been covering the gaming industry since 2019, these developments highlight the dynamic nature of the gaming landscape. With a passion for both playing and writing about video games, Yang’s insights offer a glimpse into the ever-changing world of gaming and the significance of strategic partnerships in the industry. Fans and players alike can stay tuned for more updates on Blizzard’s return to the Chinese market and the exciting new possibilities on the horizon.