2023 brought Blizzard the BlizzCon back as a major live event. However, this year, the fair will not take place.
The annual BlizzCon used to be considered a gaming highlight, where new titles were announced and future plans for existing games were revealed. After being held online during the Corona pandemic, the fair returned as a live event in 2023 for the first time since 2019.
Even Microsoft chief Phil Spencer graced the event – BlizzCon seemed to be back. However, this year the event will not take place, as Blizzard revealed on April 25, 2024.
MeinMMO editor Benedict Grothaus was present at BlizzCon 2023:
Blizzard says the decision did not come from Microsoft
What does Blizzard say? On X, formerly Twitter, Blizzard announced that BlizzCon 2024 will not take place. However, the event is not to be definitively shelved: they look forward to bringing it back in the coming years.
In a post on the BlizzCon website, there are a few more details. The decision was made after a “long consideration” and was by no means an easy one.
In a statement to PC Gamer, Blizzard emphasizes that the decision was made independently of Microsoft – everything is running smoothly for them. “This is a Blizzard decision,” a spokesperson told PC Gamer, “We have tried other event formats in the past, and this is not the first time we have canceled BlizzCon or tried something new.”
For example, BlizzCon 2022 was canceled amid ongoing scandals and lawsuits surrounding workplace harassment, sexism, and a toxic work environment at Activision Blizzard (via GamePro).
What comes next? As Blizzard assures, they have big news for 2024 despite everything. However, the timing just doesn’t fit for a single, large event. Instead, they plan to announce further details about upcoming releases in the coming months, including:
What does the community say? On X, Blizzard is facing quite a bit of ridicule from the community: Some view the cancellation as a sign that there are simply no contents to share. One user writes on X: “Not surprising, if you’re too busy laying off employees or breaking promises you made for Overwatch 2.”
Others express sadness: They were looking forward to the event, wanting to meet friends and showcase great cosplays.
What do you think? Were you looking forward to a BlizzCon 2024, or were you almost expecting something like this? Feel free to share your opinion in the comments.
