Blizzard Considers Potential for New StarCraft Game
Blizzard hints at a promising future for StarCraft following Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard, fueling speculation about a potential sequel to the beloved strategy game
Article Key Points
The President of Blizzard Entertainment hints at the potential return of the beloved real-time-strategy series StarCraft after Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
StarCraft, although not as widely recognized as other franchises, had a significant impact on the development of the RTS genre and the growth of esports.
Although there are no definite announcements regarding a new StarCraft game, there is a sense of optimism regarding the potential for increased creative freedom and resource diversification under Xbox ownership.
Blizzard Entertainment's President has hinted at the possible revival of the beloved real-time strategy powerhouse, StarCraft. With Microsoft's recent acquisition of Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion, there is potential for the iconic sci-fi classic to make a comeback.
This monumental takeover, marking the biggest ever in the video-game industry, was officially completed on October 13, 2023. Microsoft's plan to acquire Activision Blizzard was initially announced nearly two years ago. Activision Blizzard is renowned for developing gaming giants like World of Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo. While StarCraft may not be as prominent as these other franchises now under Xbox ownership, it holds significant value in both Blizzard's history and its impact on shaping the RTS genre as it exists today.
Despite receiving critical acclaim and playing a monumental role in the early development of esports, the best-selling strategy franchise has been relatively inactive compared to Blizzard's other successful franchises. While Diablo 4's popularity proves Blizzard's ability to revive old intellectual properties, the series' last new title, StarCraft 2: Wings of Liberty, was released in 2010 (with a remaster of the original game in 2017). However, in a recent interview with Bloomberg, Blizzard president Mike Ybarra hinted that a potential resurgence of the StarCraft series could occur in the future, thanks to a more hands-off approach under Xbox.
Mike Ybarra expressed that he is not the one suggesting the creation of a StarCraft game. He emphasized the importance of finding someone with the necessary vision and passion for the idea, and he is willing to support such a team. While it may disappoint fans, there are currently no confirmed plans for a new StarCraft title. However, Ybarra remains optimistic about the potential for greater creative freedom and resource diversification under Xbox. Blizzard is already working on a new survival-based intellectual property, and if a passionate and talented team were to emerge, it is likely that a new installment in the StarCraft series would be approved.
Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard presents new opportunities for the company, particularly in light of recent incidents of workplace harassment and unexpected layoffs at Blizzard that have harmed its reputation. During the opening ceremony of BlizzCon 2023, Xbox boss Phil Spencer surprised attendees by praising the franchise and highlighting its significance in the development of esports and live entertainment.
Given Microsoft's extensive experience in the real-time strategy (RTS) genre and the increasing trend of popular strategy games being adapted for Xbox, such as Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition and RimWorld, it is conceivable that a new StarCraft installment could be released on both PC and console as a valuable addition to GamePass. Perhaps in the future, gamers will even be able to enjoy Zerg Rushing their friends from the comfort of their own couches. Moreover, it is worth considering the possibility that a console version of StarCraft may not necessarily adhere to the traditional strategy gameplay.
StarCraft
James Phinney and Chris Metzen developed StarCraft, which was published initially by Blizzard Entertainment. The company has retained control of the intellectual property ever since. This real-time strategy game allows players to assume the roles of various races including the Terran, Zerg, Protoss, and others, engaging in intergalactic conflicts to establish supremacy.
Editor's P/S
As a passionate StarCraft fan, I am thrilled at the prospect of a new game in the series. StarCraft has always been one of my favorite games, and I have been eagerly awaiting a sequel for years. I believe that Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard could provide the opportunity for Blizzard to finally give fans what they have been asking for.
I am also optimistic about the potential for increased creative freedom and resource diversification under Xbox ownership. Blizzard has been under fire in recent years for its handling of various issues, including workplace harassment and unexpected layoffs. I believe that Microsoft's acquisition could provide Blizzard with the resources and support it needs to get back on track and create the games that fans deserve.
