BlizzCon Returns Next Year As Online Event

Blizzard Entertainment made true to its promise to host an online version of BlizzCon after the company was forced to cancel its in-person convention due to the pandemic caused by COVID-19.

BlizzCon 2020 was supposed to take place later this year, but with the events that caused a worldwide dilemma has urged organizers to think of ways to still push through the annual event while observing guidelines set by health agencies and the government to curb the spread of the virus.

“We’re talking about how we might be able to channel the BlizzCon spirit and connect with you in some way online, far less impacted by the state of health and safety protocols for mass in-person gatherings,” said BlizzCon Executive Producer Saralyn Smith in a May 26, 2020 blog post.

Enter BlizzConline, Blizzard’s alternative event that saw the Irvine, California-based video game developer and publisher hitch a ride in the virtual event train. The online version will take place on February 19-20, 2021.

“While circumstances are keeping us from gathering in person this year, we’re putting together a little something early next year to channel the spirit of BlizzCon into the form of an online show,” said Blizzard in a recent blog.

Included in BlizzConline is the “Community Showcase” as an avenue for cosplayers, artists and other “community creators” to participate and show their talent “through a mix of world-class competition and exciting exhibitions.” The all-online format of BlizzCon will also introduce a Cosplay event that will allow exhibitors to include their pets in a “pet cosplay.”

Artists from all over the world will also have a chance to showcase their masterpieces in an art contest, while aspiring digital filmmakers are encouraged to join an create “an original, story-driven short based on Blizzard’s game universe” in a digital storytelling contest.

There is also a talent spotlight to “celebrate the wide range of talents and extraordinary abilities of the Blizzard community worldwide,” while a virtual March of the Murlocs will continue the tradition using photo or video, Blizzard said.

Engadget said BlizzConline will streamline the latest news surrounding some of the company’s premier titles such as “World of Warcraft,” “Overwatch,” “Hearthstone” and “Starcraft.” News about “Diablo 4” and “Overwatch 2,” which was announced during last year’s convention, will also take center stage.