Blizzard Announces Overseas Plans for World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade

Blizzard promises to pursue World of Warcraft business opportunities in China

In an unusually public display, Blizzard today issued an announcement that stated the company was renewing its "commitment to its future business in mainland China," especially regarding the hugely anticipated World of Warcraft expansion The Burning Crusade.

In the release, Blizzard says that it is "currently actively exploring and discussing cooperation opportunities" with local partners in China. The release also specifically calls out The9 Interactive, Blizzard's "current partner" for World of Warcraft in China, asking them "to negotiate the upcoming World of Warcraft expansion set" and "to discuss its release in mainland China."

These are interesting statements, especially given the rumors that Blizzard and The9 Interactive have been feuding over licensing fees. Reports have indicated that Blizzard is playing hardball with The9, threatening to yank the upcoming expansion pack from its control if the operator doesn't agree to pay extra.

Given the wording in Blizzard's announcement, the powerhouse developer appears to be raising the stakes in an effort to get The9 to agree to new licensing terms.

Also interesting is the fact that Chinese WoW players have a bone to pick with The9, given recent server outages that have interrupted gameplay.

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