Blizzard enthusiasts, rejoice! BlizzCon, the highly anticipated annual convention, is making a grand comeback. After a series of setbacks due to the Covid-19 pandemic and internal challenges surrounding discrimination and sexual harassment, Blizzard has announced the return of BlizzCon to the Anaheim Convention Center on November 3.
Blizzard acknowledges that the heart of BlizzCon lies in its players—a gathering where gaming acts as the common ground for connection and friendship. Whether you’re eager to reunite with online friends, celebrate memorable gaming moments, explore convention center offerings, or uncover the future of Blizzard’s gaming universes, BlizzCon is tailored for you. The community has always been the driving force behind this special event, and Blizzard can’t wait to welcome everyone back.
While details about the event are currently limited, it is expected to deliver the familiar show experience. Blizzard has promised to reveal more information in June, including ticketing details, cosplay competitions, and other exciting competitions. BlizzCon is renowned for its major announcements, developer panels, epic esports events like the Hearthstone World Championship and Overwatch World Cup, a vast array of merchandise, and an impressive cosplay competition.
BlizzCon, like numerous other major in-person gaming events, was put on hold in 2020 due to the pandemic. Instead, Blizzard organized a digital-only event in early 2021 and announced plans for a similar online showcase in early 2022. However, following a lawsuit in July 2021 that alleged widespread discrimination and sexual harassment within the company, Blizzard decided to pause the event. They redirected their efforts toward supporting their teams and progressing game development and experiences.
The mood of past BlizzCons has fluctuated based on fan sentiment towards the company’s recent actions. Notable instances include the controversial 2018 Diablo Immortal announcement and the pro-Hong Kong protests during BlizzCon 2019. This year’s Overwatch festivities may not be particularly buoyant, considering the recent announcement that Overwatch 2’s PvE mode will not be completed as originally stated. However, the reception to Diablo 4 next month could potentially uplift spirits, and there is a possibility of Blizzard unveiling the next World of Warcraft expansion.
Similar to previous shows, the 2023 BlizzCon will be live-streamed. While the 2021 “Blizzconline” event was freely accessible, it is anticipated that access to the 2023 streams, aside from the opening ceremonies which are typically free for all, will require a virtual ticket. Although the sale of tickets is not yet available, those interested in attending in person can already book hotel blocks.
