In recent years, Blizzard Entertainment has undergone a drastic transformation as it has pivoted its focus (from RTS games) primarily towards Overwatch 2. This title has captivated millions with its vibrant characters and fast-paced gameplay, ultimately carving out its place in the gaming pantheon. While the sequel faced initial criticism, the studio has dedicated significant effort to improving the experience for players.
However, this intense focus on a single title has come at a cost. Longtime fans of Blizzard’s other franchises, particularly its beloved real-time strategy (RTS) games, feel increasingly neglected. With World of Warcraft not receiving a sequel for years, players are becoming vocal on social media and gaming forums, expressing a growing desire for World of Warcraft 4.
Blizzard has been a staple in the gaming industry for decades, known for its innovative titles and rich storytelling. However, it seems the studio that brought us World of Warcraft (WoW) and its expansive lore has been caught up in the recent trend of hero shooters and competitive gaming. While Overwatch 2 has its merits and a dedicated player base, many longtime fans feel that the studio is neglecting its roots.
For many who don’t remember, Blizzard is an iconic RTS developer who effectively helped build the genre from the ground up. The unique mechanics and the features it developed years ago established the genre’s foundations. Even today, many modern RTS games use the foundation laid by the studio’s earlier titles to create immersive games.
It is disheartening to see the studio slowly drift away from this genre, focusing instead on live service games. This major shift hasn’t gone unnoticed by fans, who are vocal about their discontent across various social media platforms and gaming forums. Recently, one player urged the developers to begin work on a fourth installment in the World of Warcraft franchise, sparking a lively discussion among gamers.
I would love a Warcraft IV
byu/bluish-velvet ingaming
Some players want the game but thinks today’s studio is not capable of delivering a good title.
Comment
byu/bluish-velvet from discussion
ingaming
Players don’t want to see the new unfocused title ruining the legacy of the beloved RTS franchise.
Comment
byu/bluish-velvet from discussion
ingaming
While others want to once again enjoy the immersive narrative and strategic thinking.
Comment
byu/bluish-velvet from discussion
ingaming
Some are worried that the studio has lost its way and won’t be able to deliver.
Comment
byu/bluish-velvet from discussion
ingaming
Even though there is a lot of resentment in the comments about the studio and how it has lost its roots. However, if the studio can reconnect with its legacy and deliver a fourth installment in the Warcraft series, it could reignite the passion of both longtime fans and new players.
With Microsoft’s recent acquisition of Blizzard alongside Activision, players are eager to see what changes this will bring to the studio and the gaming industry. There’s a growing hope that this change in leadership will give the studio the time and space to rethink its approach to the franchises that have defined its legacy.
From any perspective, the potential for Warcraft IV is not just nostalgia, it’s a great opportunity for the studio to reclaim its status as a leader in diverse gaming experiences. With the community already voicing a strong desire for a new entry in the series, this could serve as a roadmap for the studio to reconnect with its roots.
With the recent trend of remakes and remasters, there is a huge appetite within the community for a new game. What’s better than a new RTS entry in the beloved series? This has the potential to reinvigorate the lost interest in the studio and draw in both new players and long-time fans.
While Overwatch 2 has been a stable title for the studio, the competitive landscape is fierce, and Blizzard must show that it can innovate across genres, not just focus on one successful game.
In the end, while fans are clamoring for a new entry in the WoW franchise, the studio must approach this opportunity with care. A half-hearted title could not only fail to capture players’ hearts but also further tarnish the studio’s reputation as a cash grab (like it has done with Diablo).
Do you think the studio will venture back into the RTS genre? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire