During the London launch event for the World of Warcraft expansion; The Burning Crusade, a high ranking Blizzard exec hinted at sequels for two of the developer's most prized franchises.
Speaking to crowds in London, Itzik Ben Bassat said, ...as a Starcraft player I can tell you that I hope it wouldn't go a decade - we launched Starcraft in '98 - I hope it wouldn't go a decade before we stand here and celebrate the next Starcraft together. He didn't stop there, as he also added, We haven't forgotten that we have these two franchises, and what I can tell you is that I look forward to stand here in a few years, or whenever it's going to be, and celebrate with you the launch of the next Starcraft or the next Diablo.
So, the simple interpretation of these comments suggests that Blizzard is well under way in developing Diablo and Starcraft games. Things can't be so simple however, as Blizzard is well known for being secretive and protective of its projects. If Bassat did not just get carried away by the moment and his comments have some basis we are certain that Blizzard will be upset with its executive; if, on the other hand, these comments are mere speculation then Blizzard should again be disturbed as hopes have been raised and fans will be disappointed.
As it is unlikely that Blizzard will wish to waste two franchises as successful as Diablo and Starcraft, we expect that there must be some truth to Mr. Bassat's comments, we are just not quite sure why those comments were made as Blizzard is not in the habit of releasing information about its, under development, projects.
