Overwatch 2 And Diablo 4 Are Being Delayed, Most Likely Out Of 2022

Activision Blizzard today announced that Overwatch 2 is being delayed more than originally expected. It will also release Diablo IV. The announcement could have a significant impact on the financial outlook of the company for next year.

Although we still plan to provide a substantial amount content from Blizzard next, a slide from the presentation states that we now have plans for Overwatch 2’s launch and Diablo IV later than initially planned. You can read the slide in its entirety below.

“These are two of the most eagerly anticipated titles in the industry, and our teams have made great strides towards completion in recent quarters.” The slide continues, “But we believe giving the teams some extra time to complete production and continue growing their creative resources to support the titles after launch will ensure that these releases delight and engage their communities for many years into the future.”

Release dates were not given for either title. Mike Ybarra, Blizzard’s leader, answered a question about how long delays can be expected. The extended development timeframe was attributed to changes in leadership in the games’ teams. This is consistent with the annual personnel change. Chacko, Overwatch executive producer, has resigned, along with Luis Barriga (ex-Diablo IV director). Of course, there was also Jeff Kaplan, who left the company and the position of Overwatch director back in April.

Blizzard will continue to use one of its two most anticipated games next year, despite the delay. Overwatch 2 was reconfirmed to be played in the Overwatch League in 2022, albeit in an early, in-progress build of the game.