StarCraft Returns? Nexon Reportedly Takes the Helm for New Game, Plus Overwatch Mobile Deal

Get ready, StarCraft fans! After years of anticipation, it seems a new installment in the beloved sci-fi RTS series is finally on the horizon. But in a surprising twist, reports suggest that Nexon, the South Korean publisher known for games like *The First Descendant* and *Dave the Diver*, will be leading development on the next major entry, not Blizzard itself.

According to a report from Korean outlet MTN, spotted by VG247, Nexon has emerged victorious in a rights battle with Blizzard, securing the opportunity to craft the future of the StarCraft universe. While Blizzard will reportedly collaborate with Nexon, this marks a significant shift in the franchise's stewardship.

A New Direction for StarCraft? The bid proposals for the StarCraft IP reportedly came without restrictions on genre or content type. This opens the door to potentially innovative StarCraft games that venture beyond the traditional RTS formula. Imagine a StarCraft RPG, or even a strategy game with MOBA elements! Only time will tell what direction Nexon chooses to take.

Overwatch Mobile: A Korean and Japanese Affair Beyond StarCraft, Nexon has also reportedly secured the distribution rights for Overwatch Mobile in Korea and Japan. Interestingly, Overwatch Mobile is rumored to be a MOBA-style spinoff, developed by Blizzard. This move signifies Blizzard's intention to tap into the booming mobile gaming market in Asia.

A Win for Nexon, a Loss for Blizzard? This deal arguably represents a major victory for Nexon, granting them access to potentially lucrative franchises. For Blizzard, it could be seen as another instance of external studios stepping up to innovate on their IPs, reminiscent of *Path of Exile*'s impact on *Diablo* and the evolution of hero shooters after *Overwatch*.

"Especially if Nexon does come out with a StarCraft game that shows how Blizzard's behind in the genre. That both companies collaborated on the game won't matter to players if Nexon can demonstrate that it was their influence that helped make the next game a success, should it be a success, that is," reports one source.

The potential for Nexon to demonstrate its strength in the genre, even with Blizzard's collaboration, is a key takeaway. If Nexon successfully delivers a compelling StarCraft experience, it could significantly reshape perceptions of both companies.

What Does the Future Hold? While details remain scarce, the prospect of a new StarCraft game led by Nexon is undoubtedly exciting. Will they stay true to the RTS roots, or forge a bold new path? What innovations and features will Overwatch Mobile bring to the MOBA scene? These are questions that StarCraft and Overwatch fans alike are eager to have answered.

What are your hopes for the next StarCraft game? Do you think Nexon will be a good steward of the franchise? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

• Nexon
• Overwatch
• StarCraft