BlizzCon 2026 is set to commence this weekend after a two-year hiatus, with revelations expected during the event’s opening ceremony scheduled for 6:30 PM BST. Attendees can look forward to significant announcements and updates on existing and new projects from Blizzard Entertainment.
Anticipated Game Announcements and Expansions
Among the most eagerly anticipated reveals is Blizzard’s rumoured StarCraft shooter, reportedly being developed under the leadership of former Far Cry chief Dan Hay. Speculation suggests it will be a co-op shooter reminiscent of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 rather than a fundamentally multiplayer experience akin to Destiny. While there are whispers of Nexon’s involvement, details remain unclear.
Also generating buzz is the prospect of “Classic Plus,” a novel direction for World of Warcraft Classic that incorporates fresh updates to the traditional game experience, an approach Blizzard previously applied to Diablo 2 with new class introductions. A possible Diablo 4 adaptation for the Switch 2 may also be disclosed.
Expansion Timelines and New Content
This year’s convention could unveil forthcoming expansions for both Overwatch and Diablo 4, which now follow an annual update cycle. Diablo 4’s latest expansion, Lord of Hatred, launched in April, and Overwatch saw the Reign of Talon relaunch in February. With these timelines in mind, announcements on upcoming content are anticipated.
Corporate Context and Potential Industry Impact
BlizzCon takes place against the backdrop of Microsoft’s recent extensive layoffs, although Blizzard has been relatively unaffected. Additionally, recent union developments may lead to protests during the event, which could further impact proceedings.
Key Highlights from BlizzCon 2026
- Launch of “World of Warcraft Forever,” a remastered vanilla WoW capped at level 60.
- Release of a new campaign for Warcraft 3, the first in several decades.
- Introduction of the Midnight Eclipse patch for World of Warcraft.
- Announcement of a new Hearthstone expansion centred on the Old Gods, due in October.
- Revelation of Diablo 5 and confirmation of a Diablo 4 Switch 2 version, set for release next week.
- Deckard Cain returns to Diablo 4, with a new season kicking off next week.
- Introduction of Overwatch’s newest hero, Doctrine, a techno support vampire.
- StarCraft is set to return in 2030, alongside the debut of a new open-world shooter.
- An animated Diablo series is in production by Netflix.
- A potential revival for Heroes of the Storm.
- Blizzard’s president, Johanna Faries, delivered a passionate opening address.
Reporting based on coverage first published by eurogamer.net.