What Does Blizzard Own?
Blizzard Entertainment is a renowned developer and publisher of entertainment software, and its portfolio of games and franchises is a testament to its success in the gaming industry. In this article, we’ll explore what Blizzard owns, from its most popular games to its subsidiaries and acquired companies.
Games and Franchises
Blizzard is best known for its iconic games, including:
- World of Warcraft: a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that has been a phenomenon since its release in 2004.
- StarCraft: a real-time strategy game that has become a staple of esports and competitive gaming.
- Diablo: an action RPG series that has captivated gamers with its dark fantasy setting and intense gameplay.
- Overwatch: a team-based first-person shooter that has become a popular esport and a cultural phenomenon.
- Hearthstone: a digital collectible card game set in the Warcraft universe.
Subsidiaries and Acquisitions
Blizzard has also acquired several companies and subsidiaries over the years, including:
- Blizzard North: a development studio responsible for the Diablo series.
- Blizzard Entertainment: the main development studio behind World of Warcraft, StarCraft, and other Blizzard games.
- Blizzard Entertainment (Mobile): a mobile gaming division focused on developing mobile versions of Blizzard’s games.
- Blizzard Entertainment (Esports): a division dedicated to promoting and supporting esports tournaments and leagues for Blizzard’s games.
- King Digital Entertainment: a mobile gaming company acquired by Activision Blizzard in 2016, known for its popular mobile game Candy Crush.
Activision Blizzard Acquisition
In 2021, Microsoft acquired Activision Blizzard, the parent company of Blizzard Entertainment, in a deal worth $69 billion. This acquisition has significant implications for Blizzard’s future, as it will allow the company to expand its reach and resources.
Other Notable Acquisitions
Blizzard has also made several notable acquisitions over the years, including:
- Blizzard’s acquisition of Vivendi Games: a French video game publisher and developer, which gave Blizzard access to new studios and IPs.
- Blizzard’s acquisition of Silicon & Synapse: a digital game development studio, which became Blizzard’s mobile gaming division.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Blizzard Entertainment is a powerhouse in the gaming industry, with a portfolio of iconic games, franchises, and subsidiaries. From its MMORPG World of Warcraft to its digital collectible card game Hearthstone, Blizzard has built a reputation for creating engaging and immersive gaming experiences. With its acquisition by Microsoft, Blizzard is poised to continue its growth and success in the gaming industry.
Table: Blizzard’s Games and Franchises
| Game/Franchise | Genre | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| World of Warcraft | MMORPG | 2004 |
| StarCraft | RTS | 1998 |
| Diablo | ARPG | 1996 |
| Overwatch | FPS | 2016 |
| Hearthstone | Digital Collectible Card Game | 2014 |
| Candy Crush | Mobile Puzzle Game | 2012 |
Bullets List: Blizzard’s Acquisitions
• Blizzard North (development studio)
• Blizzard Entertainment (main development studio)
• Blizzard Entertainment (Mobile) (mobile gaming division)
• Blizzard Entertainment (Esports) (esports division)
• King Digital Entertainment (mobile gaming company)
• Vivendi Games (French video game publisher and developer)
• Silicon & Synapse (digital game development studio)