Blizzard, NetEase scrap Warcraft mobile game after financing dispute


World Of Warcraft was released in 2004 and remains one of the biggest cash cows for Activision Blizzard and NetEase, which has been the game’s Chinese distributor since 2009. — AP

Activision Blizzard Inc and NetEase Inc have torpedoed a World Of Warcraft smartphone game that had been in development for three years, raising questions about one of the industry’s most lucrative business relationships.

NetEase has disbanded a team of more than 100 developers tasked with creating content for the title, only some of whom were offered internal transfers, people familiar with the matter said. The two companies disagreed over terms and ultimately called a halt to the project, which had been kept under wraps, a person familiar with the deal said, asking to not be identified discussing private information.

Subscribe to The Star Yearly Premium Plan for 30% off

Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Full access to Web and App.

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.73/month

Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.39/month

RM 8.63/month

Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Others Also Read


Want to listen to full audio?

Unlock unlimited access to enjoy personalise features on the TheStar.com.my

Already a subscriber? Log In