StarCraft 3: Nexon and Blizzard Team Up for a New Chapter

After a decade of silence, the StarCraft franchise is poised for a comeback. Reports from April 2025 confirm that Blizzard Entertainment has partnered with South Korean publisher Nexon, known for The First Descendant and Dave the Diver, to develop a new StarCraft game, potentially StarCraft 3. This follows a competitive bidding war among major Korean studios, highlighting the series’ enduring popularity, especially in South Korea’s esports scene. While details are sparse, the collaboration has sparked excitement and speculation among fans eager to return to the Koprulu Sector. Here’s what we know so far about this highly anticipated project.

Nexon Wins the StarCraft License

In late April 2025, South Korean news outlet MTN reported that Nexon emerged as Blizzard’s “preferred bidder” for the StarCraft development rights, beating out giants like NCSoft, Netmarble, and Krafton. Nexon’s pitch was described as a “unique” take on the StarCraft universe, though specifics remain under wraps. The deal also includes Korean and Japanese distribution rights for a Blizzard-developed Overwatch mobile game, mistakenly dubbed Overwatch 3 by some bidders, but confirmed to be a MOBA spin-off. The focus on Nexon, a powerhouse in online and mobile gaming, suggests StarCraft 3 could explore new genres beyond the traditional real-time strategy (RTS) format.

A Departure from RTS?

StarCraft has long been synonymous with RTS excellence, with StarCraft 2: Legacy of the Void (2015) capping a trilogy that defined the genre. However, Nexon’s expertise in MMORPGs like MapleStory and action-packed titles like The Finals has fueled speculation that StarCraft 3 might not be a traditional RTS. Proposals from other bidders included MMORPGs and mobile games, suggesting Blizzard is open to reimagining the franchise. Posts on X reflect mixed fan sentiments, with some hoping for a classic RTS revival, while others are curious about a potential MMO or social experience set in the StarCraft universe. One fan even asked, “StarCraft 3 when?” alongside excitement for new RTS content in 2025.

Blizzard’s Parallel StarCraft Shooter Project

Adding to the buzz, Blizzard is reportedly developing a separate StarCraft-themed open-world shooter, led by former Far Cry executive producer Dan Hay. Revealed by Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier in 2024, this project marks Blizzard’s third attempt at a StarCraft shooter, following the canceled StarCraft: Ghost (2006) and Ares (2019). A mysterious ESRB rating for a StarCraft game with “animated blood and gore” and “strong language” appeared in November 2024, hinting at this shooter, though it’s unclear if it’s related to Nexon’s project. This dual approach suggests Blizzard is exploring multiple ways to revive the franchise.

Community Expectations and Challenges

The StarCraft community, one of the longest-running in esports, is both thrilled and cautious. StarCraft 2’s competitive scene, supported by community-driven balance patches in 2024, remains vibrant, but the closure of EPT StarCraft 2 tournaments in April 2025 raised concerns about the franchise’s esports future. Fans on X and forums like Reddit hope StarCraft 3 retains the series’ strategic depth, iconic factions (Terran, Zerg, Protoss), and compelling story, whether it’s an RTS or a new genre. Some worry a mobile or MMO focus might alienate purists, with one X post joking that Blizzard’s legacy IPs, like StarCraft, deserve more than being “sold off.”

Nexon’s involvement brings optimism, given their track record, but challenges remain. The project is likely in early development, with no confirmed release date. Speculation points to a potential reveal at BlizzCon 2026, but fans may need to wait until 2027 or later for a launch.

The Legacy of StarCraft

StarCraft’s impact on gaming is undeniable. The original game and its Brood War expansion sparked South Korea’s esports boom, with professional tournaments drawing massive audiences. StarCraft 2, released in 2010, continued this legacy, selling millions and maintaining an active player base. Recent moves, like adding StarCraft: Remastered and StarCraft 2 to Game Pass in November 2024 and a Heroes of StarCraft mini-set for Hearthstone, show Blizzard hasn’t forgotten the franchise, even if new games have been scarce. A tabletop StarCraft miniatures game, set for 2026 by Archon Studio, further highlights the IP’s enduring appeal.

What’s Next for the Koprulu Sector?

With Nexon and Blizzard collaborating, StarCraft 3 could redefine the franchise, whether as an RTS, MMO, or hybrid. The separate shooter project adds intrigue, potentially offering fans two distinct StarCraft experiences. While some argue there’s no need for a sequel given StarCraft 2’s lasting quality, the community’s hunger for new stories in the Koprulu Sector is palpable. What do you want from StarCraft 3? A return to RTS roots or a bold new direction? Stay tuned for updates as Blizzard and Nexon chart the future of this sci-fi epic.