Blizzard Entertainment's iconic World of Warcraft (WoW) franchise is set to unveil its future at BlizzCon 2023. One of the key figures leading this revelation is none other than Chris Metzen, who has recently been announced as the executive creative director for the entire Warcraft universe.
A Return to Roots
Chris Metzen, a name synonymous with the Warcraft universe, rejoined Blizzard in a part-time creative advisory role late last year after initially departing the company in 2016. While his initial focus was on shaping the future of Blizzard's MMORPG, it was hinted that his influence would soon extend to other projects within the expanding franchise. The Warcraft universe, as it stands, encompasses various novels, the card game spin-off Hearthstone, and the anticipated mobile game Warcraft Rumble.
Blizzard's recent statement emphasizes Metzen's continued dedication to WoW, as he aids the leadership in crafting the game's next generation of adventures. Fans can eagerly anticipate his appearance on stage at BlizzCon, where he will showcase the projects he and the team have been meticulously crafting over the past year.
Metzen's Enthusiasm for the Future
Metzen's passion for the Warcraft universe is palpable. He recently expressed his excitement on social media, stating, "It's been amazing working on Warcraft again. Like coming home. The stories we're developing right now—how the world unfolds over the next few years... Well, I can't wait for y'all to see where we're headed."
A Legacy of Creativity
For those unfamiliar with Metzen's legacy, he has been a cornerstone in the development of the Warcraft universe. His tenure at Blizzard spans over two decades, during which he played pivotal roles in the creation of the original Warcraft in 1994, served as the creative director for Warcraft III, and held the position of senior vice president of story and franchise development for a significant portion of his WoW journey. Fans of the game might also recognize his voice behind several characters, most notably the former Horde Warchief, Thrall.
In a recent interview with GameSpot, WoW game director Ion Hazzikostas and executive producer Holly Longdale praised Metzen's unparalleled contribution. They emphasized that his advisory role barely scratches the surface of his influence at Blizzard. Hazzikostas highlighted the invaluable experience of having Metzen in the office, especially as the WoW story team ventures into uncharted territories, crafting new villains, characters, and settings.
A New Dawn for Warcraft
With the upcoming BlizzCon 2023 scheduled for November 3-4, fans are on the edge of their seats. This event marks the convention's first in-person gathering since 2019, and with Metzen at the helm of creative direction, the future of Warcraft promises to be both nostalgic and groundbreaking.
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