In a recent announcement, Chinese video games giant NetEase revealed its partnership with Microsoft to reintroduce popular games like “World of Warcraft” back to China. This collaboration comes after a previous fallout that led to the end of a decade-long partnership between NetEase and Blizzard Entertainment.
According to the press release, both NetEase and Microsoft are working together to bring back games developed by Blizzard Entertainment, a subsidiary of Activision Blizzard. This move is set to commence this summer, marking a significant milestone for Chinese gamers who have been eagerly awaiting the return of these beloved titles.
The rift between NetEase and Blizzard stemmed from disagreements over intellectual property control, prompting the termination of their partnership in 2023. This decision resulted in several popular online games being taken offline in China, much to the dismay of millions of Chinese gamers.
However, with Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, tensions began to ease, leading to discussions between NetEase and Microsoft to mend relationships and relaunch the games in China. The renewed partnership covers flagship games like “World of Warcraft” and “Hearthstone,” along with other titles from the “Warcraft,” “Overwatch,” “Diablo,” and “StarCraft” franchises.
The exit of Blizzard games had a significant impact on Chinese gamers, with millions expressing their disappointment online. Notably, “World of Warcraft” alone had five million Chinese players in 2009, highlighting the immense popularity of these games in the country. The announcement of their return has sparked excitement among fans who have been eagerly awaiting this moment.
Additionally, the agreement between Microsoft and NetEase includes exploring the possibility of introducing new NetEase titles to Microsoft’s Xbox consoles and other gaming platforms. This partnership showcases a promising future for both companies as they work together to deliver unparalleled gaming experiences to players in China.
The collaboration between NetEase and Microsoft signifies a new chapter in the gaming industry, reaffirming the importance of partnerships and collaborations in bringing iconic titles back to the forefront of the gaming world. This renewed alliance is not only a win for Chinese gamers but also for the gaming community at large, showcasing the power of unity and cooperation in the ever-evolving landscape of video games.