In his end of year letter back in December 2022, Blizzard president Mike Ybarra said “We’re bringing Blizzcon back” in 2023. Despite that statement, there haven’t been any further updates about the event’s return, until now.
In response to a question on Twitter from someone named Meeix, who asked if there was any info yet, since it’s almost May and the event usually happens in the fall. Ybarra responded with some encouraging news for anyone who might be looking forward to the return of BlizzCon.
He said:
“Had a good Blizzcon review just this afternoon. We're figuring out communication and show plans. A lot has changed since pre-COVID. We know players are eager to understand changes happening and when things will roll out. More soon when we are ready, thanks for your patience.”
Had a good Blizzcon review just this afternoon. We're figuring out communication and show plans. A lot has changed since pre-COVID. We know players are eager to understand changes happening and when things will roll out. More soon when we are ready, thanks for your patience. https://t.co/oMEy7ZPJMH
— Mike Ybarra (@Qwik) April 18, 2023
This is just the start of the info we’re getting, but after BlizzCon moved to a virtual model during 2020 and 2021 of the COVID-19 pandemic, and then was canceled entirely, it’s still something. Given that the last we’ve heard was back in December, it looks like they’re at least in the planning stages of a new in-person event. A 2021 blog was called "Reimagining BlizzCon", so we'll have to see what that looks like.
That said, while there are a number of in-person events planned and in the works for various gaming communities, the return to in-person events hasn’t been an entirely smooth road. The most recent high-profile cancelation was, of course, ReedPop and the ESA’s attempt to put on a revamped E3 this year. Last week, The Elder ScrollsOnline held a community event in Las Vegas, which will also be the site of an upcoming Final Fantasy XIV fan festival in July.
When it comes to BlizzCon, we’ll have to wait a little longer for any details on what a return will look like. Ybarra’s comments got a mixed reaction, with some noting having dates to plan around would help people plan travel and hotels, with info being especially helpful to those outside the US. Others encouraged Blizzard to take some time to get things right, and to have good safety policies.
