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Blizzard Pitches Broader Warcraft Vision Beyond MMO as Community Bristles Over Name Remark

Blizzard outlines a more approachable direction for the franchise that emphasizes a social "third space" plus shorter‑session play.

Overview

  • Executive producer Holly Longdale says the Warcraft IP has been underutilized and argues the team must evolve what the brand means to reach more players.
  • Leaders describe exploring a loosely defined "third space" where players can gather for social events, roleplay, and community activities beyond traditional gameplay.
  • Developers cite an aging player base and limited free time as drivers for features like housing and a faster update cadence with activities completable in about an hour.
  • Longdale recounts Chris Metzen saying he sometimes wishes the series weren’t called "Warcraft" because it sounds intimidating, a comment that drew public criticism from community figures and forum posters.
  • While long‑term plans remain broad, the near term is set with Midnight launching in March and an accelerated expansion tempo that also includes The Last Titan before 2030.