Blizzard's New Survival Game: A Potential Era-Defining Title

Blizzard's New Gaming World in Development

Despite ongoing challenges related to organizational issues, labor disputes, and a significant acquisition, Blizzard Entertainment is actively developing a new original gaming world.

The company recently announced a “survival game” set within a completely new universe, currently referred to as “Unannounced Survival Game.” This announcement was accompanied by a link to their job postings and initial concept art.

Concept Art Reveals Intriguing Settings

The revealed artwork depicts a hunter, outfitted in furs and a skull-themed helmet, poised with an axe, seemingly tracking prey near a fantastical portal.

Another piece showcases a contemporary setting, with two individuals observing a different portal leading to a magical realm.

A Fresh Genre for Blizzard

While the art provides limited details, the concept appears promising, especially considering Blizzard’s expertise in crafting immersive and seamless multiplayer experiences.

The survival game genre represents a new direction for the company, potentially offering a highly polished addition to a market popularized by titles like Fortnite and Rust.

Blizzard’s most recent major original IP was the esports phenomenon Overwatch, with a sequel currently in development and anticipated, potentially, in 2023.

Turbulent Times for Activision Blizzard

Activision Blizzard, the publisher of popular franchises such as Call of Duty, Overwatch, and World of Warcraft, continues to face scrutiny following allegations of sexual harassment and discrimination brought forth in a California state lawsuit last year.

The company is also under investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), with employee subpoenas issued late in the previous year.

Currently, Bobby Kotick remains the company’s chief executive, despite reports indicating his awareness of serious workplace misconduct and a perceived lack of action.

Sources suggest Kotick will likely depart upon the completion of the Microsoft acquisition, with Phil Spencer, Head of Xbox, potentially assuming the role of Microsoft Gaming CEO.

Microsoft's Acquisition and Regulatory Concerns

Microsoft announced its intention to acquire Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion earlier this month.

This deal would establish a new record and consolidate numerous prominent game titles under a leading console manufacturer.

However, the acquisition is occurring at a time when regulatory bodies are increasingly cautious about the formation of tech monopolies.

Unionization Efforts and Employee Reactions

Activision Blizzard recently declined to voluntarily recognize a union formed by quality assurance (QA) testers at Raven Software, a subsidiary of the company.

These testers had previously engaged in a month-long strike to protest the dismissal of twelve contract employees.

Many Blizzard employees have expressed hope on Twitter that the change in ownership will bring stability and a positive shift in company culture, moving away from past issues of a toxic work environment.

Should the Microsoft deal be finalized, the gaming giant will be under the guidance of a well-established technology company, potentially providing the maturity and stability needed as it recruits for its next significant IP.