Overview
- Multiple outlets report this week that South Korea’s Chosun Ilbo says Nexon and Blizzard are close to finalizing a contract that would give Nexon rights to develop a new StarCraft game.
- Reports say Blizzard and its owner Microsoft would keep legal ownership of the StarCraft IP while Nexon would receive licensing and development rights, though no company has confirmed terms.
- Key details remain unclear about whether Nexon would make a direct RTS sequel (commonly called StarCraft 3), a different‑genre spin‑off such as a shooter, or what territories the rights would cover.
- Coverage points to Nexon’s Korea roots and prior partnerships with Blizzard as reasons it was picked after competition from other Korean firms, and it notes Microsoft/Xbox approval is required for a final deal.
- Industry watchers expect the situation to be clarified at BlizzCon 2026 and say the arrangement could change how major gaming IPs are monetized and how South Korean studios shape global releases.