Gemstones like Overwatch, WoW and Diablo might just make a comeback in China

It's exciting news to hear that popular Blizzard IPs like Overwatch, World of Warcraft, StarCraft, Diablo, and more are making a comeback in China! After what seems like a prolonged wait, fans will soon be able to enjoy these beloved games once again, thanks to the renewed publishing deal between Blizzard, Microsoft, and NetEase.

The announcement made on April 9 marks a significant step forward, indicating that discussions between the parties have concluded successfully. With the deal set to be reinstated, players in mainland China can anticipate the return of their favorite Blizzard titles as early as this summer. It's a promising development that underscores the enduring popularity and appeal of these iconic franchises.

The end of Blizzard's long-standing partnership with NetEase back in 2022 sent shockwaves through the gaming community, particularly in mainland China. The suspension of beloved titles like World of Warcraft, Hearthstone, Overwatch, StarCraft, and Diablo III left a noticeable void for the passionate gaming community in the region.

For over 14 years, NetEase had played a pivotal role in bringing Blizzard's iconic IPs to Chinese players, fostering a vibrant gaming culture. The absence of these titles in 2023 was keenly felt, underscoring the significance of Blizzard's presence in mainland China. Now, with the renewed partnership between Blizzard, Microsoft, and NetEase, fans can look forward to the return of their favorite games. This development marks a turning point for the Chinese gaming community, as they eagerly anticipate the revival of Blizzard's beloved IPs on their home turf.

It appears that Microsoft's acquisition of Activision-Blizzard has indeed played a significant role in facilitating the renewal of the lucrative NetEase deal, as many industry experts had anticipated. Phil Spencer, head of Microsoft Gaming, echoed this sentiment in his statement regarding the long-awaited license renewal.

Spencer emphasized the remarkable efforts of Blizzard and NetEase in reaffirming their commitment to players, acknowledging the integral role that Blizzard's iconic universes have played in the lives of gamers in the region over the years. He underscored Microsoft's dedication to expanding access to gaming experiences globally, highlighting the return of Blizzard's legendary titles to players in China as a testament to this commitment.

The statement suggests that Microsoft's overarching goal is to enhance gaming accessibility and reach new audiences worldwide, hinting at potential collaborations and future endeavors to bring even more gaming content to players across the globe.