Trends
Blizzard is planning to return to China in 2024
OUR TAKEBlizzard is returning to China in the coming weeks after the US video gaming giant resumed a partnership with NetEase following a high-profile bust-up last year. Blizzard positively contributes to the growth of the gaming industry in China, it provides Chinese gamers with access to high-qual…
Headline
OUR TAKEBlizzard is returning to China in the coming weeks after the US video gaming giant resumed a partnership with NetEase following a high-profile bust-up last year. Blizzard positively contributes to the growth of the gaming industry in China, it provides Chinese gamers…
Context
OUR TAKE Blizzard is returning to China in the coming weeks after the US video gaming giant resumed a partnership with NetEase following a high-profile bust-up last year. Blizzard positively contributes to the growth of the gaming industry in China, it provides Chinese gamers with access to high-quality gaming experiences and services. This move not only fosters cultural exchange but also injects new vitality and creativity into the Chinese market, offering gamers more choices and opportunities. -Jennifer YU, BTW reporter Hangzhou-based game publisher NetEase will announce the official return of Blizzard to China by the end of March or in early April, according to a report by media outlet CoreEsports.
Evidence
Pending intelligence enrichment.
Analysis
NetEase Games will manage operations for Blizzard’s games, while NetEase’s gaming subsidiary Leihuo Technology will handle the marketing, according to CoreEsports. Besides, the player base for Blizzard’s games in China is substantial, and with the added value of its gaming IP, NetEase stands a good chance of securing the rights to develop mobile versions of Blizzard’s titles if the pair resumes collaboration. Also read: Unauthorised GameStop Memes attracts $4M, but investors left hanging As mentioned by the 36Kr report in January, the latest update followed earlier reports that Blizzard had been talking to other Chinese publishers to bring World of Warcraft, a very popular game in China, back to the country, but ultimately chose to renew its partnership with NetEase.
Key Points
- Hangzhou-based game publisher NetEase will announce the official return of Blizzard to China by the end of March or in early April
- The revival of Blizzard’s partnership with NetEase will let the US developer back into the world’s largest video gaming market by revenue
Actions
Pending intelligence enrichment.
