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{{short description|Annual gaming convention by Blizzard Entertainment}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=February 2019}}
{{Infobox Convention
| name               = BlizzCon
| image              = BlizzCon logo.svg
| caption            = Official logo
| status             = Active
| genre              = [[Video game]]s
| venue              = [[Anaheim Convention Center]]
| location           = [[Anaheim, California]]
| country            = United States
| first              = {{start date and age|2005}}
| last               = {{start date and age|2023|11|3}}
| next               = September 12th & 13th 2026
| organizer          = [[Blizzard Entertainment]]
| filing             = Corporate
| attendance         = ≈40,000 in 2018
| website            = {{URL|blizzcon.com}}
}}

'''BlizzCon''' is an annual [[gaming convention]] held by [[Blizzard Entertainment]] to promote its major franchises including ''[[Warcraft]]'', ''[[StarCraft]]'', ''[[Diablo (series)|Diablo]]'', ''[[Hearthstone (video game)|Hearthstone]]'', ''[[Heroes of the Storm]],'' and ''[[Overwatch (video game)|Overwatch]]''.

The first BlizzCon was held in October 2005, and since then, all of the conventions have been held at the [[Anaheim Convention Center]] in [[Anaheim, California]], near Blizzard's headquarters in [[Irvine, California|Irvine]]. The convention features game-related announcements, previews of upcoming Blizzard Entertainment games and content, Q&A sessions and panels, [[Cosplay|costume contests]], and playable versions of various Blizzard games. The Closing Ceremony has featured concerts by [[The Offspring]], [[Tenacious D]], [[Foo Fighters]], [[Ozzy Osbourne]], [[Blink-182]], [[Metallica]], [[Linkin Park]], [["Weird Al" Yankovic]], and [[Muse (band)|Muse]]. Blizzard also hosted a similar event outside the U.S. from 2004 to 2008, known as the [[Blizzard Worldwide Invitational]].

{{TOClimit|limit=3}}
==Tickets and pricing==
=== General admission (since 2005) ===
General admission tickets are considered to be the baseline experience for BlizzCon. It grants access to attend all panels across both days; play new games, patches, and expansions; and order exclusive Blizzard merchandise online before the convention. Since its inception in 2005, the prices have changed drastically as its scope and attendees have grown. 

* For BlizzCon 2005, tickets were set at $120 USD.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.blizzard.com/ | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050712012746/http://www.blizzard.com/ | archive-date=July 12, 2005 | title=Blizzard Entertainment }}</ref>
* For BlizzCon 2007 & 2008, the price was decreased by $20 to $100 USD.
* For BlizzCon 2009, the price was increased by $25 to $125. 
* For BlizzCon 2010, the price was increased by another $25 to $150. 
* For BlizzCon 2011 & 2013, the price was increased by another $25 to $175. <ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/blizzcon-raises-ticket-prices-for-third-straight-year | title=Blizzcon Raises Ticket Prices For Third Straight Year | date=April 12, 2011 | access-date=April 4, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130513060523/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/124395/Blizzcon_Raises_Ticket_Prices_For_Third_Straight_Year.php | archive-date=May 13, 2013 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/9341624/blizzcon%C2%AE-2013-tickets-on-sale-april-24-and-27-4-4-2013 | title=BlizzCon 2013 Tickets On Sale April 24 and 27 | publisher=Blizzard Entertainment | date=April 4, 2013 | access-date=April 4, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130406234214/http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/9341624/blizzcon%C2%AE-2013-tickets-on-sale-april-24-and-27-4-4-2013 | archive-date=April 6, 2013 | url-status=live }}</ref>
* For BlizzCon 2014-2018, the price was increased by another $24 to $199.<ref name="Blizzard">{{cite web | url=http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/13835479/blizzcon%C2%AE-2014-conquers-anaheim-november-7-and-8-4-22-2014 | title=BlizzCon 2014 Conquers Anaheim November 7 and 8 | publisher=Blizzard | date=April 22, 2014 | access-date=April 22, 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140424075345/http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/13835479/blizzcon%C2%AE-2014-conquers-anaheim-november-7-and-8-4-22-2014 | archive-date=April 24, 2014 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=BlizzCon 2018 Virtual Ticket - BlizzCon |url=https://us.shop.battle.net/en-us/product/blizzcon-virtual-ticket |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181105160501/https://us.shop.battle.net/en-us/product/blizzcon-virtual-ticket |archive-date=November 5, 2018 |access-date=November 4, 2018}}</ref>
* For BlizzCon 2019, the price was increased by $30 to $229. 
* For BlizzCon 2023, the price was increased by $70 to $299. 

Each general admission ticket includes a [[Promotional merchandise|goody bag]] with items like [[Early access|beta keys]] for upcoming Blizzard games, exclusive Blizzard paraphernalia, and in-game prizes. The in-game prizes have ranged from pets, transmog, mounts in [[World of Warcraft]] & [[Heroes of the Storm]]; exclusive card packs for [[Hearthstone]]; heroes for [[Heroes of the Storm]]; cosmetic wings & pets for [[Diablo III]]; skins for [[Overwatch]]; and portraits, unit skins, and console skins for [[StarCraft: Remastered|Starcraft: Remastered]] and [[StarCraft II|Starcraft II]].

=== Benefit Dinner (2009–2019) ===
Starting with BlizzCon 2009, the BlizzCon Benefit Dinner, sometimes called the VIPs Dinner, was introduced as an additional ticket option. The dinner donates all net proceeds to the [[Children's Hospital of Orange County]]. Guests can meet with game developers, artists, executives, and other Blizzard Entertainment employees. 

The tickets included the dinner, signed print of Blizzard artwork, and BlizzCon ticket. In later BlizzCons, reserved seating for the Opening Ceremony and Community Night on the first day of the show were added as additional benefits. These tickets usually had their own sale date separate from the main ticket. The price for these tickets were: 

* $500 for BlizzCon 2009, 2010, 2011 & 2013<ref>{{cite web |date=May 1, 2013 |title=BlizzCon Benefit Dinner Tickets Sold Out |url=http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/9576689/BlizzCon_Benefit_Dinner_Tickets_Sold_Out-5_1_2013 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130715230806/http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/9576689/BlizzCon_Benefit_Dinner_Tickets_Sold_Out-5_1_2013 |archive-date=July 15, 2013 |access-date=May 2, 2013 |publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]}}</ref>
* $750 for BlizzCon 2014-2019

=== Portal Pass (since 2019) ===
Beginning with BlizzCon 2019, the Portal Pass was added as an additional ticket option for $550; it effectively replaced the Benefit Dinner option for BlizzCon 2023. It is considered an upgrade over the General Admission ticket. This price was increased by $229 to $799 with BlizzCon 2023. It granted additional access to:<ref name="auto" />

* "Night at the Faire" event in the Darkmoon Faire area the night before BlizzCon starts (BlizzCon 2019 Only)
* Access to the convention halls before general admission (BlizzCon 2019 Only)
* Private viewing lounge with video feeds of the panels
* Rotating set of Blizzard employees and special guests
* Early convention entry on both days to the Portal Pass Lounge Only
* Preferred lines for registration and security
* Preferred parking area 
* Private concessions (Introduced with BlizzCon 2023)
* Gameplay experiences (Introduced with BlizzCon 2023)
* Concierge support (Introduced with BlizzCon 2023)

== Event cancellations ==
BlizzCon is typically held every year. However, it has been cancelled six times in 2006, 2012, 2020, 2022, 2024, and 2025.

* The first cancellation came in 2006 with no reason given at the time. 
* Cancelled again in 2012, a Blizzard community manager claimed that Blizzard was working on "releasing multiple titles that year and so felt they may not have anything big, new or cool to talk about". ''World of Warcraft'''s fourth expansion, ''[[World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria|Mists of Pandaria]]'', and ''Diablo III'' both launched in 2012 while ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]'' launched in March 2013. <ref name="2012Blizzcon">{{cite web |url=http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/4338369/2012_Battlenet_World_Championship_Event-1_25_2012 |title=2012 Battle.net World Championship Event |publisher=Blizzard Entertainment |date=January 25, 2012 |access-date=January 26, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130313065735/http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/4338369/2012_Battlenet_World_Championship_Event-1_25_2012 |archive-date=March 13, 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>
* The event was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Valentine |first=Rebekah |date=2024-04-25 |title=Blizzard Cancels BlizzCon 2024, Promises Return in Future Years |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/blizzard-cancels-blizzcon-2024-promises-return-in-future-years |access-date=2024-04-28 |website=IGN |language=en}}</ref> A [[virtual event]] called BlizzConline was held in February 2021.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gartenberg |first=Chaim |date=2020-09-21 |title=BlizzConline will bring back Blizzard's canceled convention as an online show in February |url=https://www.theverge.com/2020/9/21/21449517/blizzconline-blizzcon-blizzard-entertainment-event-convention-19-20-date |access-date=2024-04-28 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> 
* BlizzCon 2022 was to be held in a modified format with virtual programming and "smaller, in-person gatherings".<ref>{{Cite web |title=BlizzCon 2021 Canceled, Will Return In 2022 With "Smaller, In-Person Gatherings" |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/blizzcon-2021-canceled-will-return-in-2022-with-smaller-in-person-gatherings/1100-6492031/ |access-date=2024-04-28 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US}}</ref> It was again cancelled in October 2021 in order to prioritize "supporting our teams and progressing development of our games and experiences", and to provide time to "reinvent" the event to be "safe, welcoming, and inclusive as possible". This cancellation came amid the [[California]] state government's [[California Department of Fair Employment and Housing v. Activision Blizzard|employee discrimination lawsuit against parent company Activision Blizzard]].<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/blizzard-is-cancelling-blizzcon-2022-to-reimagine-the-future-of-the-event/1100-6497402/ | title = Blizzard Is Cancelling BlizzCon 2022 To Reimagine The Future Of The Event | first = Cameron | last =Koch | date = October 26, 2021 | accessdate = October 26, 2021 | work = [[GameSpot]] }}</ref>
*BlizzCon 2024 was cancelled in April 2024, with no reason given.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.ign.com/articles/blizzard-cancels-blizzcon-2024-promises-return-in-future-years | title = Blizzard Cancels BlizzCon 2024, Promises Return in Future Years | first = Rebekah | last =Valentine | date = April 25, 2024 | accessdate = April 25, 2024  | work = [[IGN]] }}</ref>
*BlizzCon 2025 was similarly cancelled in March 2025 with no explicit reason, but in the announcement, Blizzard stated its 2026 BlizzCon plans.<ref>https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/blizzcon-2025-will-not-happen-but-will-return-in-2026-blizzard-confirms/</ref>

==BlizzCon events==
{| class="wikitable"
|-
!Year
!Dates
!Number of attendees (approx.)
!Closing Ceremonies
!Ticket Price (USD)
!Portal Pass Price (USD)
!Virtual Ticket Price (USD)
|-
|2005
|October 28–29
|{{formatnum:4000}}<ref name="BlizzPlanet">{{cite web | title = BlizzCon 2005 - Part 1 | publisher = Blizzplanet | url = https://warcraft.blizzplanet.com/blog/comments/blizzcon-2016-opening-ceremony-transcript | date = November 13, 2016 }}</ref>
|[[The Offspring]], [[Christian Finnegan]], L60ETC
|100
|N/A
|N/A
|-
|2006
| colspan="6" style="text-align:center;"| ''Not held''
|-
|2007
|August 3–4
|13,000
|[[Video Games Live]], [[Jay Mohr]], L70ETC
|100
|N/A
|N/A
|-
|2008
|October 10–11
|{{formatnum:15000}}<ref name="Morhaime2008">BlizzCon 2008 opening ceremony speech, [[Michael Morhaime]]</ref>
|Video Games Live, [[Patton Oswalt]], [[Kyle Kinane]], L70ETC
|100
|N/A
|N/A
|-
|2009
|August 21–22
|{{formatnum:20000}}<ref name="bigdownload">{{cite web|url=http://news.bigdownload.com/2009/08/06/20-000-tickets-sold-for-blizzcon-2009-sold-out-in-just-eight-mi/|title=20,000 tickets sold for BlizzCon 2009; sold out in just eight minutes|access-date=October 28, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028225425/http://news.bigdownload.com/2009/08/06/20-000-tickets-sold-for-blizzcon-2009-sold-out-in-just-eight-mi/|archive-date=October 28, 2014|url-status=live}}</ref>
|[[Ozzy Osbourne]]
|125
|N/A
|39.95
|-
|2010
|October 22–23
|{{formatnum:27000}}
|[[Tenacious D]], [[Dave Grohl]]
|150
|N/A
|39.99
|-
|2011
|October 21–22
|{{formatnum:26000}}
|[[Foo Fighters]], TAFKL80ETC/L90ETC
|175
|N/A
|39.99
|-
|2012
| colspan="6" style="text-align:center;"| ''Not held''
|-
|2013
|November 8–9
|{{formatnum:26000}}
|[[Blink-182]]
|175
|N/A
|39.99
|-
|2014
|November 7–8
|{{formatnum:26000}}
|[[Metallica]], L90ETC/Elite Tauren Chieftains
|199
|N/A
|39.99
|-
|2015
|November 6–7
|{{formatnum:25000}}
|[[Linkin Park]]
|199
|N/A
|39.99
|-
|2016
|November 4–5
|{{formatnum:27000}}+
|[["Weird Al" Yankovic]]
|199
|N/A
|39.99
|-
|2017
|November 3–4
|{{formatnum:35000}}+
|[[Muse (band)|Muse]]
|199
|N/A
|39.99
|-
|2018
|November 2–3
|{{formatnum:40000}}+<ref>{{cite web |title=Legendary Game Universes and Esports Superstars Take Center Stage at BlizzCon® 2018 |website=[[Associated Press]] |url=https://www.apnews.com/676266208ddb45e986245ef157e3155a |access-date=November 6, 2018 |date=November 4, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116085937/https://www.apnews.com/676266208ddb45e986245ef157e3155a |archive-date=November 16, 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/718877/000110465918066972/a18-39721_1ex99d1.htm |title=ACTIVISION BLIZZARD ANNOUNCES THIRD-QUARTER 2018 FINANCIAL RESULTS |access-date=November 15, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116085738/https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/718877/000110465918066972/a18-39721_1ex99d1.htm |archive-date=November 16, 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref>
|[[Train (band)|Train]], [[Lindsey Stirling]], [[Kristian Nairn]]
|199
|N/A
|49.99
|-
|2019
|November 1–2
|
|[[Fitz and the Tantrums]], [[The Glitch Mob]], [[Haywyre]]
|229
|550
|49.99
|-
|2020
| colspan="6" style="text-align:center;"| ''Not held''
|-
|2021
|February 19–20
|Online Only
|[[Kristian Nairn]], [[Metallica]], [[Mamamoo]]
|Free
|N/A
|19.99/39.99/59.99 Celebration Collection<ref>{{cite web |title=The Celebration Collection - BlizzCon {{!}} Blizzard Shop |url=https://us.shop.battle.net/en-us/product/celebration-collection |website=battle.net |access-date=19 February 2021}}</ref>
|-
|2022
| colspan="6" style="text-align:center;"| ''Not held''<ref>{{Cite web|last=Lawler|first=Richard|date=2021-10-26|title=Blizzard will 'pause' plans for an online BlizzCon event in 2022|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/10/26/22746780/blizzard-blizzcon-harassment-cancel-warcraft-overwatch-blizzconline|access-date=2021-10-28|website=The Verge|language=en}}</ref>
|-
|2023
|November 3–4
|{{TBA}}
|[[Le_Sserafim|LE SSERAFIM]]
|299
|799
|Free Live Stream (29.99/49.99 BlizzCon Collection Packs)
|-
|2024
| colspan="6" rowspan="2" style="text-align:center;" |''Not held''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |date=2024-04-25 |title=BlizzCon 2024 canceled, but promised to come back 'in future years' |url=https://www.polygon.com/blizzcon/24140370/blizzcon-2024-canceled |access-date=2024-04-25 |website=Polygon |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
|2025
|-
|2026
|September 12-13<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrMT3bgU-fs&feature=youtu.be |title=BlizzCon {{!}} Announce Trailer |date=2025-03-11 |last=Blizzard Entertainment |access-date=2025-03-11 |via=YouTube}}</ref>
|
|
|
|
|
|}

===2000s===
====2005====
Attendees were able to try one of the two new playable races, the Blood Elves, for upcoming expansion based in Outland which was released as ''[[World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade]]'' in 2007. Playable demos of the single and multiplayer modes of the since canceled ''[[Starcraft: Ghost]]'' were available. A songwriting competition was judged by [[Jonathan Davis]] of [[Korn]].

Level 60 Elite Tauren Chieftain, comedian [[Christian Finnegan]], and [[The Offspring]] performed at the closing concert.<ref name="Official News">{{cite web| title = BlizzCon Has Left the Building | publisher = Blizzard Entertainment | url = http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/news/wow-news-10-2006.html| date = October 31, 2006 |access-date = February 6, 2007}} {{Dead link|date=November 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>

====2007====
[[File:BlizzCon opening ceremony.jpg|thumb|right|The opening ceremony at the 2007 BlizzCon]]
A pre-release version of ''[[StarCraft II]]'' was available for play (the game would be released as ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]'' only in 2010), as single player or 2v2 as Terran or Protoss.<ref name="GameReplays.org Protoss vs. Terran Matchup">{{cite web | title = Protoss vs. Terran: Match-up Analysis | publisher = GameReplays | date = August 5, 2007 | url = http://www.gamereplays.org/starcraft2/portals.php?&show=page&name=protoss_vs_terran_match_analysis_blizzcon | access-date = December 25, 2007 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071224131832/http://www.gamereplays.org/starcraft2/portals.php?&show=page&name=protoss_vs_terran_match_analysis_blizzcon | archive-date = December 24, 2007 | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="GameReplays.org Terran vs. Protoss Matchup">{{cite web | title = Terran vs. Protoss: Match-up Analysis | publisher = GameReplays | date = August 5, 2007 | url = http://www.gamereplays.org/starcraft2/portals.php?&show=page&name=terran_vs_protoss_match_analysis_blizzcon | access-date = December 25, 2007 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071224183805/http://www.gamereplays.org/starcraft2/portals.php?&show=page&name=terran_vs_protoss_match_analysis_blizzcon | archive-date = December 24, 2007 | url-status = live }}</ref> Much of the game, excluding the [[Zerg]] race, was revealed and explained as well as Q&A with attendees.<ref name="Blizzcon2007 announced">{{cite press release |title=Blizzcon 2007 announced |publisher=Blizzard Entertainment |url=http://www.blizzard.com/press/070412.shtml |access-date=August 3, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070819221922/http://www.blizzard.com/press/070412.shtml |archive-date=August 19, 2007 }}</ref> The second expansion to ''World of Warcraft'', titled ''[[World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King|Wrath of the Lich King]]'', was officially announced and available to play.<ref name="Wrath announced">{{cite press release |title=World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich Ling unveiled |publisher=Blizzard Entertainment |url=http://www.blizzard.com/press/070803-2.shtml |date=August 3, 2007 |access-date=August 3, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070820050918/http://www.blizzard.com/press/070803-2.shtml |archive-date=August 20, 2007 }}</ref>

Comedian [[Jay Mohr]] entertained at the closing ceremony followed by Level 70 Elite Tauren Chieftain (who changed their name to reflect the new level cap in ''The Burning Crusade'') alongside [[Video Games Live]] performing at the closing concert.<ref name="Mohr">{{cite press release |title=BlizzCon 2007 Gaming Festival to Feature Comedian Jay Mohr |publisher=Blizzard Entertainment |url=http://www.blizzard.com/press/070727.shtml |access-date=August 3, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070820051120/http://www.blizzard.com/press/070727.shtml |archive-date=August 20, 2007 }}</ref>

====2008====
[[Image:Thorim.jpg|thumb|Fan in Thorim costume]]
In the opening ceremonies, Blizzard president [[Michael Morhaime]] revealed the third playable class for ''Diablo III'', the Wizard, as well as the major announcement that ''Starcraft II'' would be separated into three games.

Playable versions of ''[[Diablo III]]'', ''StarCraft II'', and ''[[World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King]]'' were available to test during the convention. There were also tournaments and competitions for the ''World of Warcraft'' [[Collectible card game|trading card game]], ''World of Warcraft'' miniatures game, ''StarCraft'', ''StarCraft II'', ''Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne'', and ''World of Warcraft'' arena. For the first time, the Zerg race was playable in the ''StarCraft II'' demos.

BlizzCon 2008 was broadcast live on both days as a [[pay-per-view]] event on [[DirecTV]] for US viewers only, offering eight hours of content per day in [[High-definition television|high definition]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blizzard.com/blizzcon/dtv/?rhtml=y|title=BlizzCon|date=October 24, 2014|access-date=October 28, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090617192502/http://www.blizzard.com/blizzcon/dtv/?rhtml=y|archive-date=June 17, 2009|url-status=live}}</ref> Blizzard [[fansite]] WoW Radio broadcast live audio via [[SHOUTcast]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://wcradio.com/shows/60-Blizzcon-08-Coverage|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100102214628/http://wcradio.com/shows/60-Blizzcon-08-Coverage|url-status=dead|title=wcradio.com|archivedate=January 2, 2010|website=wcradio.com}}</ref>

For the closing ceremonies on Saturday, comedians Kyle Kinane and [[Patton Oswalt]] performed. The closing concert was performed by Video Games Live, playing arrangements from all of the Blizzard games, including music from ''Wrath of the Lich King''.

====2009====
[[image:Blizzcon conv center.jpg|thumb|right|BlizzCon 2009 at the [[Anaheim Convention Center]]]]
To reduce frustrations over low ticket availability for previous BlizzCons, the convention added a fourth hall and a new system for ticket purchasing that used an online queue.<ref>[http://www.wow.com/2009/06/01/blizzcon-2009-ticket-sales-are-done/ BlizzCon 2009 Ticket Sales are Done] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090608051609/http://www.wow.com/2009/06/01/blizzcon-2009-ticket-sales-are-done |date=June 8, 2009 }} WoW Insider June 1, 2009.</ref> [[DirecTV]] again carried both days of BlizzCon 2009 as a pay-per-view event ($39.95 for both days) for eight hours per day in both standard and high definition; purchasers also received an exclusive "Grunty the Murloc Marine" ''[[World of Warcraft]]'' in-game pet.<ref>{{cite web |title=DirecTV Blizzcon |url=http://www.directv.com/blizzcon/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090107051035/http://www.directv.com/blizzcon |archive-date=January 7, 2009 |access-date=October 28, 2014 |work=DIRECTV}}</ref> New in 2019, BlizzCon was broadcast live via an [[Streaming media|internet stream]] with access offered as a "Virtual Ticket" and included for pay-per-view customers. The site covered both days of the convention featuring exclusive interviews and commentary, main stage presentations including the opening ceremony, and tournament coverage with team highlights.<ref>[http://blizzcon.rayv.com BlizzCon 2009 Live] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090806023236/http://blizzcon.rayv.com/|date=August 6, 2009}}</ref>
[[Image:Ozzy_Osbourne_BlizzCon_2009.jpg|thumb|right|[[Ozzy Osbourne]] at BlizzCon 2009]]
The third expansion, ''[[World of Warcraft: Cataclysm]]'' was announced. ''Diablo III'', ''StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty'' were available to play. [[Ozzy Osbourne]] performed for the closing concert.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://kotaku.com/5334760/ozzy-osbourne-to-headline-blizzcon-concert | title=Ozzy Osbourne to Headline BlizzCon Concert | publisher=Kotaku.com | date=August 11, 2009 | access-date=February 26, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150610220826/http://kotaku.com/5334760/ozzy-osbourne-to-headline-blizzcon-concert | archive-date=June 10, 2015 | url-status=live }}</ref>

===2010s===
====2010====
[[Image:Resto Druid.JPG|thumb|Resto Druid in Tree Form at BlizzCon 2010]]

The fifth playable ''Diablo III'' class was revealed to be the Demon Hunter and the ''StarCraft II'' modification called "Blizzard DotA" was presented, which later evolved into ''[[Heroes of the Storm]]''. ''Diablo III'', ''StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty'' and ''World of Warcraft: Cataclysm'' were playable.
[[File:Tenacious D at BlizzCon.JPG|thumb|right|[[Tenacious D]] at BlizzCon 2010]]
Similar to 2009, BlizzCon 2010 was available live via an online broadcast on the "BlizzCon Virtual Ticket". The Virtual Ticket provided four live feeds from the convention floor, offering 50+ hours of BlizzCon programming. DirecTV again offered both days of BlizzCon 2010 as a pay-per-view event (US$39.95 for both days) for ten hours per day in both standard and high definition.

Korean player MVP_Genius won the StarCraft II BlizzCon Invitational.{{citation needed|date=April 2021}} The vinyl record ''[[Revolution Overdrive: Songs of Liberty]]'' was released for the event. The comedy rock duo [[Tenacious D]] played the closing concert with [[Dave Grohl]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://us.blizzard.com/en-us/company/press/pressreleases.html?101011|title=Tenacious D Live Onstage at BlizzCon 2010|access-date=October 25, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101017041207/http://us.blizzard.com/en-us/company/press/pressreleases.html?101011|archive-date=October 17, 2010|url-status=live}}</ref> Recordings of the event were released for free as part of the [[Live Music Archive]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/TenaciousD|title=Tenacious D : Free Music : Free Audio : Download & Streaming : Internet Archive|access-date=October 28, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141009020023/https://archive.org/details/TenaciousD|archive-date=October 9, 2014|url-status=live}}</ref>

====2011====
The opening ceremony showcased a new ''[[Diablo III]]'' cinematic trailer titled "The Black Soulstone," a ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]'' reveal trailer showed new units and abilities, a "[[Heroes of the Storm|Blizzard DOTA]]" trailer for a new game made from ''[[StarCraft II]]'', and the reveal of ''[[World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria]]'', a new expansion for ''[[World of Warcraft]]''. ''Diablo III'', ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]'', and ''World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria'' were playable. DirecTV once again offered both days of BlizzCon 2011 as a pay-per-view event.

The [[GOMTV Global Starcraft II League]] October final match took place in Anaheim alongside BlizzCon.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gomtv.net/2011gslsponsors4/news/65735 |title=GSL October Final in Anaheim |access-date=July 12, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110713131520/http://www.gomtv.net/2011gslsponsors4/news/65735 |archive-date=July 13, 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> Moon "MMA" Sung Won beat Jeong "Mvp" Jong Hyeon, 4–1. The closing concert featured a performance from Blizzard's in-house band, The Artist Formerly Known as Level 80 Elite Tauren Chieftains (TAFKL80ETC), who changed their name mid-concert to Level 90 Elite Tauren Chieftains (L90ETC). The [[Foo Fighters]] [[Headliner (performances)|headlined]] the closing concert.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://eu.blizzard.com/en-gb/company/press/pressreleases.html?id=3038917|title=FOO FIGHTERS TO ROCK THE HOUSE AT BLIZZCON 2011|access-date=October 28, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111006033746/http://eu.blizzard.com/en-gb/company/press/pressreleases.html?id=3038917|archive-date=October 6, 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

====2013====
BlizzCon 2013 was held on November 8 and 9 in Anaheim.<ref name="blizzcon2013-announcement">{{cite press release | url=http://us.blizzard.com/en-us/company/press/pressreleases.html?id=8717941 | title=Blizzard Entertainment's Blizzcon 2013 Storms Anaheim November 8 and 9 | publisher=Blizzard Entertainment | date=February 19, 2013 | access-date=February 19, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415132239/http://us.blizzard.com/en-us/company/press/pressreleases.html?id=8717941 | archive-date=April 15, 2016 | url-status=live }}</ref> The tickets were sold in two batches across April 24 and 27, 2013, and both batches quickly sold out.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/9536938/second-batch-of-blizzcon-tickets-sold-out-4-27-2013 | title=Second Batch of BlizzCon Tickets Sold Out | publisher=Blizzard Entertainment | date=April 27, 2013 | access-date=April 28, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130502025922/http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/9536938/second-batch-of-blizzcon-tickets-sold-out-4-27-2013 | archive-date=May 2, 2013 | url-status=live }}</ref> Blizzard also sold special tickets that included access to a  Benefit Dinner. Blizzard once again sold a Virtual Ticket for live streaming of all BlizzCon 2013 events.<ref name="virtual-ticket-2013">{{cite web | url=http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/10870160/blizzcon-2013-virtual-ticket-on-sale-now-9-12-2013 | title=BlizzCon 2013 Virtual Ticket On Sale Now | publisher=Blizzard Entertainment | date=September 12, 2013 | access-date=October 15, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131022053047/http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/10870160/blizzcon-2013-virtual-ticket-on-sale-now-9-12-2013 | archive-date=October 22, 2013 | url-status=live }}</ref>

The ''Heroes of the Storm'' "Cinematic Trailer" was presented with an alpha version of the game available for play. ''[[Hearthstone]]'' was announced for release to [[iOS]] and [[Android (operating system)|Android]] with [[Public beta|public beta testing]]. The fifth expansion to ''World of Warcraft'', ''Warlords of Draenor'', was officially announced with a trailer. The [[Warcraft (film)|''Warcraft'' film]] concept art was shown. ''[[Diablo III: Reaper of Souls]]'' was announced to be released on PC, [[Xbox One]], and [[PS4]].

The gaming events included the finals of the 2013 ''[[StarCraft II]]'' [[StarCraft II World Championship Series|World Championship Series]]<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.gamespot.com/starcraft-ii-wings-of-liberty/videos/mike-morhaime-talks-about-the-bwc-hots-2013-blizzcon-and-more-6400298/ | title=Mike Morhaime talks about the BWC, HoTs, 2013 Blizzcon, and more | publisher=GameSpot.com | date=November 18, 2012 | access-date=February 26, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130211100858/http://www.gamespot.com/starcraft-ii-wings-of-liberty/videos/mike-morhaime-talks-about-the-bwc-hots-2013-blizzcon-and-more-6400298/ | archive-date=February 11, 2013 | url-status=live }}</ref> as well as the Hearthstone Innkeeper's Invitational, a ''Hearthstone'' tournament featuring prominent [[Twitch (service)|Twitch]] streamers.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://us.battle.net/hearthstone/en/blog/11218298 | title=Hearthstone Innkeeper's Invitational | publisher=Blizzard | date=October 10, 2013 | access-date=October 15, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131013023650/http://us.battle.net/hearthstone/en/blog/11218298 | archive-date=October 13, 2013 | url-status=live }}</ref> The StarCraft II competition was won by [[Kim Yoo-jin (StarCraft player)|Kim "sOs" Yoo-jin]], ''World of Warcraft'' arena was won by the team Skill-Capped, and ''Hearthstone'' was won by [[Artosis|Dan "Artosis" Stemkoski]]. The closing concert was performed by [[Blink-182]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://us.blizzard.com/en-us/company/press/pressreleases.html?id=11393306 | title=SoCal Punk Legends Blink-182 to close out Blizzcon 2013 | publisher=Blizzard | date=October 31, 2013 | access-date=October 31, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131102150938/http://us.blizzard.com/en-us/company/press/pressreleases.html?id=11393306 | archive-date=November 2, 2013 | url-status=live }}</ref>

====2014====
[[File:Life BlizzCon 2014 2.jpg|thumb|right|[[Life (gamer)|Life]] won the BlizzCon 2014 ''[[StarCraft II]]'' tournament.]]
The tickets were sold in two baches across May 7 and 10, 2014, using [[Eventbrite]] instead of the Blizzard Store.<ref name="Blizzard"/> Blizzard once again sold a Virtual Ticket for live online streaming of all of the events.

''[[Overwatch (video game)|Overwatch]]'', a new class-based multi-player [[Shooter game|shooter]], was announced on November 7, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/11/07/blizzcon-2014-blizzards-new-game-is-overwatch|title=BLIZZCON 2014: BLIZZARD'S NEW GAME IS 'OVERWATCH'|work=ign.com|date=November 7, 2014 |access-date=November 7, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141107212935/http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/11/07/blizzcon-2014-blizzards-new-game-is-overwatch|archive-date=November 7, 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> The third part of ''Starcraft II'', ''[[Legacy of the Void]]'' was announced. The first expansion pack for ''[[Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft|Hearthstone]]'', ''Goblins vs. Gnomes'', was announced on the same day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pocketgamer.co.uk/r/iPad/Hearthstone%3A+Heroes+of+Warcraft/news.asp?c=62459|title=Hearthstone's new expansion, Goblins vs. Gnomes, to add 120 cards in December|date=November 7, 2014|work=Pocket Gamer|access-date=January 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304114731/http://www.pocketgamer.co.uk/r/iPad/Hearthstone:+Heroes+of+Warcraft/news.asp?c=62459|archive-date=March 4, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

The first Hearthstone World Championship was hosted at the event, won by James "Firebat" Kostesich. The 2014 [[StarCraft II World Championship Series]] Global Finals was won by [[Life (gamer)|Lee "Life" Seung Hyun]], who beat Mun "MMA" Seong Won. The ''World of Warcraft'' championship was won by team Bleached Bones. The first official ''Heroes of the Storm'' tournament was held at the event and won by team [[Cloud9]]. The closing ceremony concert was opened by Level 90 Elite Tauren Chieftains (changed their name during the show to Elite Tauren Chieftains) and closed by [[Metallica]].<ref name="Metallica">{{cite web | url=http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/16466905/metallica-performing-live-at-blizzcon%C2%AE-2014-10-21-2014 | title=Metallica Performing Live at BlizzCon® 2014 | publisher=Blizzard | date=October 21, 2014 | access-date=October 21, 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141022132916/http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/16466905/metallica-performing-live-at-blizzcon%C2%AE-2014-10-21-2014 | archive-date=October 22, 2014 | url-status=live }}</ref>

====2015====
{{for|details about the ''Heroes of the Storm'' World Championship|2015 Heroes of the Storm World Championship}}
[[File:Illidan Costume.JPG|thumb|Fan in Illidan costume]]
The tickets went on sale on April 15 and 18 using Eventbrite and sold out near instantly. Blizzard once again sold a Virtual Ticket for live streaming of all BlizzCon events. The convention's online broadcast was watched by over 10 million people.

''Hearthstone'''s third adventure, ''League of Explorers'', was announced on November 6, 2015 and released on November 12.<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-hearthstone-expansion-the-league-of-explorers-/1100-6432066/ New Hearthstone Expansion The League of Explorers Announced] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151107220242/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-hearthstone-expansion-the-league-of-explorers-/1100-6432066/ |date=November 7, 2015 }} Retrieved November 6, 2015.</ref> Overwatch was announced to have a Q2 2016 release date, later confirmed for May 24. The expansion ''[[World of Warcraft: Legion]]'' released its cinematic trailer confirming a release by September 21, 2016. The [[Warcraft (film)|Warcraft]] film had its first official trailer announcing a June 10, 2016, release date. [[StarCraft II: Nova Covert Ops]] was announced as a set of three [[Single-player video game|single-player]] mission packs.

The [[2015 Heroes of the Storm World Championship]] and the second Hearthstone World Championship were hosted at the event. ''Hearthstone'' was won by Sebastian "Ostkaka" Engwall and ''Heroes of the Storm'' was won by team Cloud 9 again. The 2015 [[StarCraft II World Championship Series]] Global Finals was won by [[Kim Yoo-jin (StarCraft player)|Kim "sOs" Yoo-jin]] beating reining winner Lee "Life" Seung Hyun, making him the first two-time StarCraft II world champion. The ''World of Warcraft'' arena team championship was won by SK Gaming. The closing concert was performed by [[Linkin Park]].<ref>[http://blizzard.gamespress.com/LINKIN-PARK-TO-BRING-DOWN-THE-HOUSE-AT-BLIZZCON-2015 Linkin Park to Bring Down the House at BlizzCon 2015] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151022000023/http://blizzard.gamespress.com/LINKIN-PARK-TO-BRING-DOWN-THE-HOUSE-AT-BLIZZCON-2015 |date=October 22, 2015 }} Retrieved October 21, 2015.</ref>

====2016====
BlizzCon 2016, also known as BlizzCon X, was the tenth BlizzCon event. Its tickets were sold on April 20 and 23 using the ticketing service Universe. This year's Virtual Ticket included live streams of the conventions esports events and major panels, along with access to purchase the goody bag of promotional merchandise previously reserved for in-person attendees. While retaining its $39.99 price, the Virtual Ticket no longer included panels and interviews in smaller rooms. In September 2016, Blizzard Entertainment released a sneak peek at the BlizzCon 2016 in-game item rewards.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/20288667/get-a-sneak-peek-at-the-blizzcon%25C2%25AE-2016-in-game-goodies-9-15-2016|title=Get a Sneak Peek at the BlizzCon 2016 In-Game Goodies 2016|website=blizzcon.com|language=en-US|access-date=September 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160918012223/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/20288667/get-a-sneak-peek-at-the-blizzcon%25C2%25AE-2016-in-game-goodies-9-15-2016|archive-date=September 18, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

The gaming announcements included the fourth expansion for ''Hearthstone'', titled ''Mean Streets of Gadgetzan'', which released in December 2016. ''Overwatch'' announced [[Sombra (Overwatch)|Sombra]] as a new playable character after teasing her via an [[alternate reality game]] and the [[Overwatch League]] for esports. ''Diablo III'' announced an annual The Darkening of Tristram event, in ''[[Diablo (video game)|Diablo I]]'' would be replayable through the game each January. Additionally, the necromancer class would be added to ''Diablo III'' in a [[Downloadable content|DLC]] pack called Rise of the Necromancer.<ref name="pcworld.com">{{Cite web |title=BlizzCon 2016: Overwatch's Sombra revealed, Diablo returns, Hearthstone's Gadgetzan, and more |url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/410930/blizzcon-2016-overwatchs-sombra-revealed-world-of-warcraft-plans-and-more.html |access-date=2023-09-18 |website=PCWorld |language=en}}</ref>

The gaming events at BlizzCon 2016 included the [[StarCraft II World Championship Series]] Global Finals (won by Byun "ByuN" Hyun Woo), the ''World of Warcraft'' arena championship, the ''Hearthstone'' third world championship, the ''Heroes of the Storm'' fall championship, and the [[Overwatch World Cup 2016|''Overwatch'' World Cup]].<ref name="pcworld.com" /> [[Kristian Nairn]] was the [[disc jockey]] during Blizzard's 25th anniversary party.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.geekgirlauthority.com/blizzcon-2016-kristian-nairn-hodor-will-dj-the-anniversary-party/|title=BlizzCon 2016: Kristian Nairn (Hodor) Will DJ The Anniversary Party - Geek Girl Authority|date=October 28, 2016|access-date=November 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161103234747/http://www.geekgirlauthority.com/blizzcon-2016-kristian-nairn-hodor-will-dj-the-anniversary-party/|archive-date=November 3, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The closing ceremony concert was performed by [["Weird Al" Yankovic]].<ref>[https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/20344677/weird-al-yankovic-live-at-blizzcon-2016 Weird Al Yankovic live at BlizzCon 2016] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161028020616/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/20344677/weird-al-yankovic-live-at-blizzcon-2016 |date=October 28, 2016 }} Blizzard</ref>

====2017====
[[File:BlizzCon 2017.jpg|thumb|Outside of the Anaheim Convention Center for BlizzCon 2017]]
On March 14, Blizzard Entertainment announced that BlizzCon 2017 would be held on November 3 and 4, with tickets available for purchase on April 5 and 8 using the ticketing service Universe. A third round of tickets were sold on July 5 due to the convention center adding a new hall.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/20855979/another-chance-at-tickets-for-blizzcon-2017-on-sale-july-6|title=Another Chance At Tickets For BlizzCon® 2017— On Sale July 5!|website=blizzcon.com|language=en-US|access-date=June 30, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830150425/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/20855979/another-chance-at-tickets-for-blizzcon-2017-on-sale-july-6|archive-date=August 30, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> On September 13, 2017, Virtual Tickets were opened for sale; this ticket included a faction-specific flying mount in World of Warcraft, and other special items in the various Blizzard games.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wowhead.com/news=271800/blizzcon-2017-virtual-ticket-on-sale-warcraft-reward-is-alliance-and-horde-mount|title=BlizzCon 2017 Virtual Ticket On Sale|publisher=Wowhead|language=en-US|access-date=September 13, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170914035601/http://www.wowhead.com/news=271800/blizzcon-2017-virtual-ticket-on-sale-warcraft-reward-is-alliance-and-horde-mount|archive-date=September 14, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/21043938/blizzcon%C2%AE-2017-in-game-bonus-items-incoming-10-10-2017|title=BlizzCon® 2017 In-Game Bonus Items Incoming!|publisher=Blizzard Entertainment Inc.|access-date=November 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107165814/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/21043938/blizzcon%C2%AE-2017-in-game-bonus-items-incoming-10-10-2017|archive-date=November 7, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> BlizzCon 2017 had more than 35,000 attendees, made possible by a recent expansion of the Anaheim Convention Center.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ocregister.com/2017/11/03/this-is-what-its-like-when-35000-cosplayers-and-fans-descend-on-blizzcon-2017-in-anaheim/|title=These BlizzCon 2017 photos show what it's like when 35,000 cosplayers, fans descend on Anaheim|date=November 3, 2017 |publisher=[[Orange County Register]]|access-date=November 6, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171105051253/http://www.ocregister.com/2017/11/03/this-is-what-its-like-when-35000-cosplayers-and-fans-descend-on-blizzcon-2017-in-anaheim/|archive-date=November 5, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

The gaming announcements included the next expansion to ''World of Warcraft'', ''[[World of Warcraft: Battle for Azeroth|Battle for Azeroth]]'', opening of official [[World of Warcraft Classic|''World of Warcraft Classic'']] servers, a new hero ([[Moira (Overwatch)|Moira]]) and map (Blizzard World) for ''[[Overwatch (video game)|Overwatch]]'', free re-releases of''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''{{'}}s first campaign, multiplayer other modes of the game,<ref name="free-to-play">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/starcraft-2-dev-on-the-effects-of-going-free-to-pl/1100-6454663/|title=Starcraft 2 Dev On The Effects Of Going Free-To-Play|date=November 4, 2017|access-date=November 4, 2017|publisher=Gamespot|first=Justin|last=Haywald|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171105050636/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/starcraft-2-dev-on-the-effects-of-going-free-to-pl/1100-6454663/|archive-date=November 5, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> and the December 2017 release of the next ''[[Hearthstone]]'' expansion, ''Kobolds and Catacombs''.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.pcgamer.com/hearthstone-heads-underground-in-december-with-the-kobolds-catacombs-expansion/ | title = Hearthstone heads underground in December with the Kobolds & Catacombs expansion | first = Time | last = Clark | date = November 3, 2017 | access-date = November 3, 2017 | work = [[PC Gamer]] | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171104231359/http://www.pcgamer.com/hearthstone-heads-underground-in-december-with-the-kobolds-catacombs-expansion/ | archive-date = 2017-11-04 | url-status = live }}</ref>

The esports events at BlizzCon 2017 included the [[StarCraft II World Championship Series]] Global Finals won by Lee "Rogue" Byung Ryul, the ''World of Warcraft'' arena championship won by ABC, the ''Hearthstone'' Innkeeper's Invitational won by the Grimestreet Grifters, the ''Heroes of the Storm'' HGC Finals won by MVP Black, the [[Overwatch World Cup 2017|''Overwatch'' World Cup]] won by South Korea for the second time, and ''[[StarCraft: Remastered]]'' Ultimate Title Fight won by Bisu.<ref>[http://www.esports-news.co.uk/2017/11/06/blizzcon-2017-esports-winners-announcements-roundup/ Blizzcon 2017: Esports winners and announcements roundup] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109112215/http://www.esports-news.co.uk/2017/11/06/blizzcon-2017-esports-winners-announcements-roundup/ |date=November 9, 2017 }} Retrieved November 9, 2017</ref> The closing concert was performed by [[Muse (band)|Muse]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/21098851/muse-live-at-blizzcon-2017|title=Join Us At BlizzCon 2017|website=blizzcon.com|language=en-US|access-date=October 5, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171006013123/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/21098851/muse-live-at-blizzcon-2017|archive-date=October 6, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

====2018====
Blizzard Entertainment announced that BlizzCon 2018 would be held on November 2 and 3 at the Anaheim Convention Center, with tickets again sold using Universe on May 9 and 12.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hearthpwn.com/news/5434-blizzcon-2018-announced-november-2-3|title=BlizzCon 2018 Announced - November 2 & 3|website=hearthpwn.com|access-date=April 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180412082000/https://www.hearthpwn.com/news/5434-blizzcon-2018-announced-november-2-3|archive-date=April 12, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> A third round of tickets went on sale on August 18.<ref name="BlizzCon18ThirdWave">{{cite web |title=BlizzCon® 2018 – Third Ticket Sale August 18 at 10 A.M. PT |url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22017602 |website=BlizzCon.com |publisher=Blizzard Entertainment |access-date=August 25, 2018 |date=August 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180826005155/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22017602 |archive-date=August 26, 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref> 

The announcements on the first day included ''[[Warcraft III: Reforged]]'', a remaster of ''[[Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos]]'' and its expansion, ''[[Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne|The Frozen Throne]]'';<ref>{{cite web|url=http://playwarcraft3.com |title=Warcraft III: Reforged|website=playwarcraft3.com}}</ref> a new Western-themed hero for ''[[Overwatch (video game)|Overwatch]]'' named [[Ashe (Overwatch)|Ashe]];<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/overwatchs-new-character-hero-ashe-revealed-as-hero-29-t-blizzcon/1100-6462981/ |title=Overwatch's New Character Hero Ashe Revealed As 29 At BlizzCon|first=Tamoor|last=Hussain|date=November 2, 2018}}</ref> the first original character for ''[[Heroes of the Storm]]'', Orphea, who was gifted to attendees and Virtual Ticket holders;<ref>{{cite web|url=https://venturebeat.com/2018/11/02/heroes-of-the-storm-adds-its-first-original-character/|title=Heroes of the Storm adds its first original character: Orphea|date=November 2, 2018|access-date=November 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181103052323/https://venturebeat.com/2018/11/02/heroes-of-the-storm-adds-its-first-original-character/|archive-date=November 3, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> the ''Rastakhan's Rumble'' expansion for ''[[Hearthstone]]'';<ref>{{cite web|url=https://venturebeat.com/2018/11/02/hearthstones-next-expansion-is-rastakhans-rumble/|title=Hearthstone's Hearthstone's next expansion is Rastakhan''s Rumble|date=November 2, 2018|access-date=November 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181103052323/https://venturebeat.com/2018/11/02/hearthstones-next-expansion-is-rastakhans-rumble/|archive-date=November 3, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> a playable demo for ''World of Warcraft Classic'';<ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/Warcraft/status/1058430660266749952|title=World of Warcraft on Twitter: World of Warcraft Classic is coming summer 2019, and will be included in your #Warcraft subscription.|website=Twitter|access-date=November 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181102210907/https://twitter.com/Warcraft/status/1058430660266749952|archive-date=November 2, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> and ''[[Diablo: Immortal]]'', an [[action role-playing game]] for mobile devices.<ref>[https://venturebeat.com/2018/11/02/diablo-immortal-is-coming-to-mobile/ Diablo: Immortal is coming to mobile] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181103052232/https://venturebeat.com/2018/11/02/diablo-immortal-is-coming-to-mobile/ |date=November 3, 2018 }} Retrieved November 2, 2018</ref> The announcement of ''[[Diablo: Immortal]]'' was poorly received, resulting in a high number of [[Like button|dislikes]] on the YouTube gameplay and cinematic trailers, and considerable criticism from gaming journalists and streamers.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/erikkain/2018/11/06/the-5-biggest-problems-with-this-diablo-immortal-fiasco/#5f62db31145a|title=The 5 Biggest Problems With This 'Diablo Immortal' Fiasco.|first=Erik|last=Kain|work=Forbes|access-date=November 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181108070100/https://www.forbes.com/sites/erikkain/2018/11/06/the-5-biggest-problems-with-this-diablo-immortal-fiasco/#5f62db31145a|archive-date=November 8, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>

The esports events at BlizzCon 2018 included the StarCraft II World Championship Series Global Finals won by [[Joona Sotala|Joona "Serral" Sotala]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22636920/starcraft-ii-celebrates-a-new-champion|access-date=November 4, 2018|title=StarCraft II Celebrates a New Champion|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181105160459/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22636920/starcraft-ii-celebrates-a-new-champion|archive-date=November 5, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> the World of Warcraft Arena World Championship won by Method Orange,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22636921/inside-a-methodical-awc-2018-championship|access-date=November 4, 2018|title=Inside a Methodical AWC 2018 Championship|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181105160546/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22636921/inside-a-methodical-awc-2018-championship|archive-date=November 5, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> the World of Warcraft Mythic Dungeon Invitational All-Stars won by Free Marsy, the Hearthstone Global Games won by the China team,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22636919/team-china-takes-down-hgg-2018|access-date=November 4, 2018|title=Team China Takes Down HGG 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181104024402/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22636919/team-china-takes-down-hgg-2018|archive-date=November 4, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> the Heroes of the Storm Global Championship won by [[Gen.G]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22638971/hgc-crowns-a-champion-at-blizzcon-2018|access-date=November 4, 2018|title=HGC Crowns a Champion at BlizzCon 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181105160528/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22638971/hgc-crowns-a-champion-at-blizzcon-2018|archive-date=November 5, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> and the [[2018 Overwatch World Cup|Overwatch World Cup]] won by South Korea for a third consecutive time.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22697653/postcard-from-blizzcon-south-korea-three-peats|access-date=November 4, 2018|title=Postcard from BlizzCon: South Korea Three-Peats|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181105160517/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22697653/postcard-from-blizzcon-south-korea-three-peats|archive-date=November 5, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> Closing festivities included simultaneous concerts by [[Train (band)|Train]], [[Kristian Nairn]], and [[Lindsey Stirling]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/schedule#sat-nov-3|title=Schedule - BlizzCon 2018|access-date=November 4, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181105160449/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/schedule#sat-nov-3|archive-date=November 5, 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref>

====2019====
Blizzard Entertainment announced that BlizzCon 2019 would be held on November 1 and 2 at the Anaheim Convention Center, with tickets sold using AXS.com on May 4 and 8.<ref name="auto">{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22938865|title=5 Things You Need to Know Before You Buy a BlizzCon Pass - BlizzCon 2019|website=blizzcon.com|language=en-US|publisher=Blizzard Entertainment Inc.|access-date=April 25, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190425173748/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22938865|archive-date=April 25, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> In lieu of the traditional "goodie bag," convention attendees chose between an orc grunt or human footman statue to commemorate 25 years of Warcraft.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22955737|title=BlizzCon 2019 Commemorative Collectible Celebrates 25 Years of Warcraft - BlizzCon 2019|website=blizzcon.com|language=en-US|publisher=Blizzard Entertainment Inc.|access-date=April 25, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190425173747/https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/22955737|archive-date=April 25, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> 

Announcements for upcoming releases included [[Diablo IV]], [[Overwatch 2]], World of Warcraft's eighth expansion, [[World of Warcraft: Shadowlands|Shadowlands]], and the Hearthstone expansion ''Descent of Dragons''. Additionally, Hearthstone would be receiving a new game mode called Battlegrounds in December 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/blizzcon-2019-news-announcements-diablo-4-overwatch-2|title=BlizzCon 2019 news – our roundup of all the announcements|date=November 4, 2019 |access-date=November 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191104190323/https://www.pcgamesn.com/blizzcon-2019-news-announcements-diablo-4-overwatch-2|archive-date=November 4, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

The esports events at BlizzCon 2019 included the [[2019 Overwatch World Cup|Overwatch World Cup]] that was won by the United States,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dailyesports.gg/united-states-win-gold-at-2019-overwatch-league-world-cup/|title=United States win gold at 2019 Overwatch League World Cup|access-date=November 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191104192949/https://www.dailyesports.gg/united-states-win-gold-at-2019-overwatch-league-world-cup/|archive-date=November 4, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> StarCraft II WCS Global Finals won by Park "Dark" Ryung Woo,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dailyesports.gg/dark-wins-the-starcraft-ii-wcs-global-finals-at-blizzcon-2019/|title=Dark wins the StarCraft II WCS Global Finals at BlizzCon 2019|access-date=November 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191104192950/https://www.dailyesports.gg/dark-wins-the-starcraft-ii-wcs-global-finals-at-blizzcon-2019/|archive-date=November 4, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> World of Warcraft Arena World Championship won by Method Black, World of Warcraft Mythic Dungeon International won by Method EU,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dailyesports.gg/method-take-first-in-blizzcons-arena-world-championship-mythic-dungeon-international/|title=Method take first in BlizzCon's Arena World Championship, Mythic Dungeon International|access-date=November 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191104192947/https://www.dailyesports.gg/method-take-first-in-blizzcons-arena-world-championship-mythic-dungeon-international/|archive-date=November 4, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> and Hearthstone Grandmasters Global Finals won by VKLiooon, the first female to win Grandmasters in that game.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dailyesports.gg/blizzcon-hearthstone-grandmasters-global-finals-vkliooon-heads-to-the-grand-finals/|title=BlizzCon: Hearthstone Grandmasters Global Finals: VKLiooon heads to the grand finals|access-date=November 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191104192947/https://www.dailyesports.gg/blizzcon-hearthstone-grandmasters-global-finals-vkliooon-heads-to-the-grand-finals/|archive-date=November 4, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> Closing festivities included simultaneous concerts by [[The Glitch Mob]], [[Haywyre]], and [[Fitz and the Tantrums]] (the last concert was viewable for attendees only).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wowhead.com/news=296038/blizzcon-2019-closing-ceremony-bands-announced|title=BlizzCon 2019 Closing Ceremony Bands Announced|access-date=November 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191104003224/https://www.wowhead.com/news=296038/blizzcon-2019-closing-ceremony-bands-announced|archive-date=November 4, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

===2020s===
====2020====
In April 2020, Blizzard announced<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/23371505|access-date=May 24, 2020|title=A Note About Blizzcon}}</ref> that they were still working on plans for the next BlizzCon, noting that it may occur in some other form or be cancelled entirely due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]]. In May 2020, Blizzard confirmed they will not hold the physical event, but was considering some online replacement which would not likely occur until early 2021.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gematsu.com/2020/05/blizzcon-2020-cancelled-due-to-coronavirus-concerns | title = BlizzCon 2020 cancelled due to coronavirus concerns | first=  Sal | last=  Romano | date = May 26, 2020 | access-date = May 26, 2020 | work = Gematsu }}</ref>

====2021====
On September 21, 2020, Blizzard announced that the [[virtual event]] BlizzConline would be held from February 19–20, 2021.<ref>{{cite web|date=September 21, 2020|title=Save the Date for BlizzConline™ February 19–20|url=https://news.blizzard.com/en-us/blizzcon/23513935/save-the-date-for-blizzconline-february-19-20|access-date=October 2, 2020|work=Blizzard Entertainment}}</ref> It featured the unveiling of ''[[Diablo II: Resurrected]]'' and the remastered version of ''The Burning Crusade'' expansion for ''[[World of Warcraft Classic]]'', as well as further details on ''[[Overwatch 2]]'' and ''Diablo Immortal''.<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Hood|first1=Vic|last2=Loeffler|first2=John|date=2021-02-05|title=BlizzCon 2021: Everything we saw at BlizzConline this year|url=https://www.techradar.com/news/blizzcon-2021|access-date=2021-10-28|website=TechRadar|language=en}}</ref>

In May 2021, Blizzard announced that the in-person BlizzCon event was again cancelled due to COVID-19, as the "ongoing complexities and uncertainties of the pandemic" made it impossible to organize an event at the required scale for its traditional November scheduling. Blizzard stated that there were plans for a "global event" with online components and "smaller in-person gatherings" to be held in early 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Peters|first=Jay|date=2021-05-26|title=BlizzCon 2021 has been canceled|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/5/26/22455077/blizzcon-canceled-global-event-blizzconline-blizzard|access-date=2021-10-28|website=The Verge|language=en}}</ref>

==== 2022 ====
On October 26, 2021, amid, but without mentioning, [[California Department of Fair Employment and Housing v. Activision Blizzard|ongoing litigation against the company]] over its workplace culture and treatment of female employees, Blizzard announced that the previously announced "global event" had been "paused", and that it would "take the time to reimagine what a BlizzCon event of the future could look like."<ref>{{Cite web|last=Lawler|first=Richard|date=2021-10-26|title=Blizzard will 'pause' plans for an online BlizzCon event in 2022|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/10/26/22746780/blizzard-blizzcon-harassment-cancel-warcraft-overwatch-blizzconline|access-date=2021-10-28|website=The Verge|language=en}}</ref>

==== 2023 ====
In May 2023, Blizzard announced that BlizzCon will be held on November 3 and 4 at the Anaheim Convention Center.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gematsu.com/2023/05/blizzcon-2023-set-for-november-3-to-4|title=BlizzCon 2023 set for November 3 to 4|last=Romano|first=Sal|website=Gematsu|date=2023-05-17|access-date=2023-05-17}}</ref> On June 29, 2023, Blizzard announced several new changes to BlizzCon but did confirm that tickets would be sold once more thru AXS.com in two waves across July 8 and 22. Attendees were restricted to purchasing two tickets per transaction, down from four tickets per transaction in 2019. For the first time in the event's history, tickets for BlizzCon failed to sell out.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Schreier |first=Jason |title=Play Nice |date=October 2024 |publisher=[[Grand Central Publishing]] |isbn=9781538725429 |location=[[New York City]] |pages=2}}</ref>

Additionally, Blizzard included a [[Content rating|Mature warning]] for BlizzCon content that would not permit children under the age of 7 and required an adult for those aged 7-17 to enter. Blizzard further announced that BlizzCon 2023 would be live streamed for free. However, the Virtual Ticket was still sold by offering in-game items for various Blizzard games. Seating for the opening ceremony was assigned with a [[lottery]] due to the smaller capacity of the BlizzCon Arena. In addition, all panels and Community Night events were held BlizzCon Arena using first-come, first-served seating. Events in the BlizzCon Arena were simulcast to screens across BlizzCon.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BlizzCon 2023 tickets on-sale July 8 and July 22! |url=https://news.blizzard.com/en-us/blizzcon/23973732/blizzcon-2023-tickets-on-sale-july-8-and-july-22 |access-date=2023-09-18 |website=news.blizzard.com |language=en}}</ref> Hall E of the Anaheim Convention Center was not used; the BlizzCon Store, merchandise pick-up, and costume contest typically held there was moved to the bottom half of the North Hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BlizzCon 2023 Convention Lay-out |url=https://www.blizzcon.com/en-us/in-person/general-information |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=www.blizzcon.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029210049/https://www.blizzcon.com/en-us/in-person/general-information |archive-date=October 29, 2023 |language=en}}</ref> 

==Blizzard WorldWide Invitational==
Blizzard WorldWide Invitationals were events similar to BlizzCon held outside the United States.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
!Edition
!Dates
!Location
!Price
!Game announce
!Beta key
!Playable games
!Web sites
|-
|1
|January 15 to 18, 2004
|Seoul, South Korea, COEX Convention Center
|Free
|None
|?
|?
|?
|-
|2
|February 3 to 5, 2006
|Seoul, South Korea, COEX Convention Center
|?
|None
|?
|?
|[https://web.archive.org/web/20060716065225/http://www.battle.net/tournaments/wwi2006/ WWI 2006]
|-
|3
|May 19 and 20, 2007
|Seoul, South Korea
|Free <ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.blizzard.com/us/wwi-2007/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080725105536/http://www.blizzard.com/us/wwi-2007/|url-status=dead|archive-date=2008-07-25|title=WWI 2007|date=July 25, 2008}}</ref>
|[[StarCraft II]]
|None
|None
|[https://web.archive.org/web/20080725105536/http://www.blizzard.com/us/wwi-2007/ WWI 2007]
|-
|4
|June 28 and 29, 2008
|Paris, France, Porte de Versailles
|70 euros
|[[Diablo III]]
|WoW Wrath Lich King
|StarCraft II, WoW Wrath Lich King
|[http://www.blizzard.com/wwi08/ WWI 2008] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090425173539/http://www.blizzard.com/wwi08/ |date=April 25, 2009 }}
|}

==References==
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}

==External links==
* {{Commons category-inline}}
* {{Official website}}

{{Blizzard Entertainment}}
{{Video game trade shows}}
{{Hearthstone}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Video game trade shows]]
[[Category:Blizzard Entertainment]]
[[Category:Recurring events established in 2005]]
[[Category:Gaming conventions]]
[[Category:StarCraft competitions]]
[[Category:2005 establishments in California]]