Diablo 4 Expands Into a Massive New Market Soon
▼ Summary
– Diablo 4 has received approval from China’s National Press and Publication Administration, allowing its release in China.
– It is one of seven foreign-made games approved in July, with 62 foreign games approved in China so far this year.
– Blizzard re-partnered with NetEase in 2024 to reintroduce its games in China after a licensing dispute caused disruptions in 2023-2024.
– The Chinese version of Diablo 4 will likely feature content changes, such as reduced gore and altered visuals, to comply with local regulations.
– Blizzard is planning significant updates for Diablo 4, including a new expansion next year, while Season 9 is currently active.
Diablo 4 is set to launch in China after receiving official approval from the country’s National Press and Publication Administration, marking a significant expansion for Blizzard’s hit action RPG. This approval comes as part of a broader wave of game licenses issued in July, with only seven foreign titles making the cut alongside 127 locally developed games.
China’s gaming market has seen fluctuating approval rates in recent years, with a notable freeze on new releases between mid-2021 and early 2022. However, the process has since stabilized, reaching a multi-year high last month with 158 games approved. For Blizzard, this approval represents a major milestone, especially after its temporary exit from the region due to licensing disputes with NetEase.
The partnership between Blizzard and NetEase was revived earlier this year, allowing popular titles like World of Warcraft and Overwatch 2 to return to Chinese players. Diablo 4, which launched globally in June 2023, was notably absent during this period. While an exact release date for the Chinese version hasn’t been announced, players can expect a tailored experience.
Historically, Blizzard’s games in China operate on separate servers with modified content to comply with local regulations. Diablo 4 will likely undergo similar adjustments, including toned-down violence, altered skeletal designs, and the removal of religious imagery. The Necromancer class, for instance, may feature visually different undead minions to meet censorship guidelines.
Beyond its Chinese debut, Diablo 4 continues to evolve globally. Recent leaks suggest major updates are in the works, while the current Season 9 keeps players engaged. A full-fledged expansion is also slated for next year, ensuring the game’s longevity in both established and newly accessible markets.
(Source: GAMESPOT)
