Update: BlizzCon 2020 Canceled

In early April, TCN covered Blizzard’s statement on the uncertainty regarding BlizzCon and the COVID-19 pandemic this year. It came around the time ticket sales are usually announced and attendees begin planning their trips to Anaheim in November. Blizzard posted a follow-up statement today, informing the community that they have “come to the difficult decision not to hold BlizzCon this year.”

According to executive producer Saralyn Smith, numerous discussions were held about how BlizzCon could be achieved with current health regulations and concerns for the safety of all involved. Unfortunately, as many event organizers are discovering, it doesn’t seem that there is one right answer that addresses these concerns.

We’re feeling deeply disappointed about this decision, and imagine many of you will feel the same . . . We will sorely miss connecting with so many of you at the convention and “recharging our geek batteries” this fall.

Saralyn Smith, BlizzCon executive producer

Blizzard is exploring avenues to “channel the BlizzCon spirit and connect with you in some way online,” although they don’t promise anything before next year. However, they will likely find a way to livestream some of the esports competitions that have become an important facet of BlizzCon, as well as some of the large game announcements that accompany the event.

Smith closed the statement by encouraging players to keep connecting through Blizzard games and to stay tuned for further updates on BlizzCon’s future.

What do you think about events like E3, SDCC, and BlizzCon being canceled this year? Sound off in the comments!