World of Warcraft may also make a return.
Blizzard is reportedly reuniting with NetEase to bring Hearthstone and World of Warcraft back to China. Read on for details and an explanation of the Blizzard and NetEase situation.
Blizzard reportedly reunites with NetEase
According to a report by Core Esports, Blizzard is getting back together with NetEase. NetEase is the technology company in China that allowed Blizzard games to operate in the country for 14 years prior to the failed negotiations between both parties in 2022. The report noted that the official announcement will arrive at either the end of March or early April.
Blizzard and NetEase explained
NetEase's licensing agreements with Blizzard expired on January 23, 2023. This resulted in the suspension of game services for Hearthstone, World of Warcraft, Overwatch 2, and more in mainland China. Prior to the suspension, both NetEase and Blizzard made announcements about the situation.
"We have put in a great deal of effort and tried with our utmost sincerity to negotiate with Activision Blizzard so that we could continue our collaboration and serve the many dedicated players in China," NetEase CEO William Ding stated in the news release.
Ding added that both parties weren't able to reach an agreement on the material differences on key terms. Meanwhile, Blizzard's announcement listed the suspended games and reiterated how both parties did not reach a renewal deal due to Blizzard's operating principles and commitments to employees and players.
“We’re immensely grateful for the passion our Chinese community has shown throughout the nearly 20 years we’ve been bringing our games to China through NetEase and other partners,” then-president Mike Ybarra stated. “Their enthusiasm and creativity inspire us, and we are looking for alternatives to bring our games back to players in the future.”
Overwatch 2, World of Warcraft, Hearthstone, and more in China
Hours before Overwatch 2 went offline in China, players bid farewell to their favorite heroes and friends. Meanwhile, some World of Warcraft players talked about the irony of the server shutting down so soon after Lunar New Year 2023.
Additionally, prior to the full shutdown of Hearthstone in China, Hearthstone executive producer Nathan Lyons-Smith gave the community hope in the card game's return to the country. In a video posted on Weibo, he sympathized with players.
"Please hang in there. We're exploring possibilities to bring the game back to you and the community," Lyons-Smith said. He then talked about a Hearthstone expansion before noting that his team is committed to China's player community.
"I look forward to when we can welcome you back home to the Tavern," Lyons-Smith added.
That's all for now. Stick around on esports.gg for more news and updates.