Overwatch 3: Blizzard’s Mobile MOBA in the Works with Nexon; Check Details

Blizzard is moving big time again, and this time is collaborating with Nexon on two large-scale ventures: a mobile edition of Overwatch and a brand new StarCraft game. It was reported by Korean news channel MTN that Blizzard has given Nexon publishing rights for Overwatch Mobile in Korea and Japan, and development rights for the follow-up StarCraft instalment. Curiously, Overwatch Mobile is internally called "Overwatch 3," suggesting that the game might be a significant step forward for the franchise instead of a straightforward mobile port. 

Overwatch Mobile: Internally Known as "Overwatch 3"

 

It's interesting to note that Overwatch Mobile is also referred to internally as "Overwatch 3," which suggests that it's something greater than just a mobile port. It was said to be a MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena), which implies a spin-off with gameplay other than Overwatch 2. Development of the mobile game was reportedly several years in the making, with journalist Jason Schreier mentioning it in his book Play Nice: The Rise, Fall, and Future of Blizzard Entertainment. Originally planned to be released alongside Overwatch 2, the project was delayed but continues.

A Fierce Bidding War for StarCraft

https://x.com/OverwatchNaeri/status/1916706369547440206?t=pEWU4kP9p5QzGQarOJPQww&s=08

Rights to publish Overwatch Mobile and to make a new StarCraft game were included in the package deal. Top Korean gaming behemoths such as NCSoft, Netmarble, and Krafton joined the bidding war, but Nexon ended up winning in the end. Famous for The Finals and MapleStory series games, Nexon now owns the development rights of Blizzard's legendary StarCraft franchise.

What to Expect & What's Next

Specific information regarding the new StarCraft game is at present vague. Nevertheless, earlier reports suggested Blizzard was willing to venture into other genres like RPGS and shooter games. This new development is a follow-up to Blizzard's past, abandoned StarCraft titles such as Ghost and Ares.

To date, Blizzard has not made any official announcement on these developments. That said, with increasing reports and industry rumours, fans of both Overwatch and StarCraft have cause to look forward. Should the reports prove true, Overwatch Mobile might be a daring new direction for the franchise, as opposed to a simple port.