Blizzard Developing Unannounced Multiplayer Game, & It Sounds Ambitious

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According to a job listing, Blizzard Entertainment is developing an unannounced multiplayer project. The company has been hard at work on several projects for the last few years, including Overwatch 2, the sequel to the much-loved multiplayer FPS. At last month's BlizzConline event, Blizzard shared major updates on that game and gave some general progress updates on other franchises, like Diablo. Though the company has been more open about its development practices and the progression of its franchises in the past few years, it's clear that Blizzard still likes to keep some things hidden.

It's not uncommon to find hints and clues about upcoming games, projects, and franchise continuations in job listings. When hiring developers for projects that aren't yet announced, companies must strike a balance between being honest about the job's requirements and responsibilities while also keeping the game itself a secret. A few days ago, a job listing was shared that potentially points to a standalone multiplayer title in the universe of The Last Of Us. Even if they aren't interested in applying, sharp-eyed fans can often glean a few details about upcoming titles from these listings.

In a similar fashion, a job listing for a senior systems designer at Blizzard has provided details about a game the company hasn't discussed yet. The listing states that the company is looking for "a talented and passionate senior systems designer to design and develop core systems and mechanics for an unannounced AAA multiplayer project." The project appears to be very early in development, as this systems designer would have to "analyze, pitch, prototype, and develop core gameplay mechanics." Blizzard expects that applicants will have "extensive experience with games, including action, FPS, and online titles" and "a deep passion for and knowledge of Blizzard franchises." These characteristics point toward some sort of action-oriented multiplayer title, though there is no mention of required live ops experience, which is often included in similar listings. Senior artist Dan John Cox posted about the listing on Twitter and shared additional openings, saying that the jobs are part of a "REALLY REALLY cool unannounced project."

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As exciting as this seems, it's possible that the project may never see the light of day. Studios pitch and cancel a variety of projects that only become known to the public many years later, like Blizzard's own canceled StarCraft third-person shooter. It's currently unknown whether this game incorporates some of Blizzard's other characters and franchises; it's unlikely that the project has anything to do with Overwatch or Diablo, as both of those franchises have prominent games already in development - and Overwatch is already an FPS.

If this in-development project does make it into production, it will be exciting to see what the company makes next. Overwatch was Blizzard's first new IP in years and was received extremely well, which should encourage the company to make more original content. Regardless of whether the game involves an existing Blizzard universe or a brand-new setting and cast of characters, fans will surely be interested in the development powerhouse's next big announcement.