Blizzard unveiled a slate of upcoming titles and updates at BlizzCon 2026, including a new StarCraft open-world shooter, Diablo 5, and a distinct branch of World of Warcraft titled WOW: Forever. While the shooter and Diablo 5 are slated for distant releases in 2030 and 2029 respectively, WOW: Forever is set to launch on November 4th.
The new StarCraft game will depart from the series' traditional real-time strategy roots to become an open-world shooter. Dan Hay, a former producer and director for Far Cry, is leading the project. Hay described the game's tone as being inspired by the HBO series Deadwood, emphasizing a narrative focus with a cast of characters who must rely on each other despite potential conflicts. The developers aim for players to experience the world and interact with various groups, potentially utilizing enemy factions as tools. The game is targeted for a 2030 release.
Diablo 5 was announced for a Spring 2029 release, with its narrative set after the fall of Sanctuary and the antagonist Diablo's ascendancy. Blizzard stated the game's core question is "what must you become when the world has already fallen?" The studio cited a desire to gather early feedback from long-time fans and provide regular development updates starting next year. Additionally, it was confirmed that Diablo 4 will not receive further expansions after Lord of Hatred, though ongoing support and seasons will continue.
World of Warcraft: Forever represents a new direction for the MMO, returning players to an earlier era of Azeroth with a focus on evolving content through regular updates. Blizzard describes it as an "invitation to take your first steps in a legendary world of untamed frontiers, warring factions, untold perils, and unseen mysteries." The expansion will introduce a new elven race, the Skyborne, which will require an additional purchase to unlock. A beta for WOW: Forever is scheduled to begin on September 17th.
Further content for Warcraft III: Reforged was also announced, with a new campaign titled The Forsaken Kingdom now available. Information regarding mainline World of Warcraft's next major update, Eclipse, is expected in early next year. Blizzard's ongoing ownership by Microsoft and reported ties to the Israeli military have led to a boycott by the BDS movement.