Activision Blizzard announced Feb. 4 that both Overwatch 2 and Diablo IV, the next entries in the publisher’s best-selling franchises, may be delayed beyond 2021.
Overwatch 2 and Diablo IV were originally announced at BlizzCon 2019. However, when news of the delays broke during the company’s Q4 earnings call, explanation as to why progress has slowed at Blizzard was lacking. The announcement came alongside news that Call of Duty would receive a new title this year, as expected. Blizzard Entertainment, the producer of the Diablo and Overwatch series, works separately from the rotation of Call of Duty developers.
Overwatch 2 and Diablo IV delayed
The news is disappointing for both communities. Diablo fans have been without a new installment since 2012’s Diablo III, and Overwatch fans have been craving a new experience since the sequel’s announcement halted most new content for the original game.
Diablo fans, at least, have been on this rollercoaster before. Although Diablo III was announced in 2008, it wasn’t released until mid-2012. The most recent installment of the game prior had been Diablo II, released all the way back in 2000. Even with delays in production, players will have a much shorter wait this time around.
There’s currently no news on how Overwatch 2 delays will affect the Overwatch League. Depending on the title’s release date, we may see up to two more seasons played with the original Overwatch, with no new characters in sight.
Fans should expect additional news surrounding both titles later this year.
