World of Warcraft brings back series legend Chris Metzen to help craft “the next generation of adventures”
The old guard returns
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BlizzardEntertainment has announced that a legendary series veteran will be returning to work onWorld of Warcraftas executive creative director.
Chris Metzen, who spent 23 years with the company before retiring in 2016, has returned to a full-time position with Blizzard (via VGC).
An announcement onWorld of Warcraft’s official Twitter accountstated: “Right now, [Metzen’s] main focus is supporting ourWorld of Warcraftleadership in crafting the next generation of adventures. Chris was instrumental in developing the foundations of theWarcraftuniverse, and we are thrilled for him to re-join our teams in shaping what’s to come.”
Though Metzen rejoined the studio last year in an advisory capacity, this marks a massive step up for the veteran developer’s involvement.
Metzen’s time with the series dates all the way back toWarcraft: Orcs and Humansin 1994, where he worked on concept art, illustrations, and documentation. This classic RTS first introduced audiences to theWarcraftuniverse, laying the groundwork for a series that would eventually spawn one of thebest MMOsof all time.
It’s been amazing working on Warcraft again. Like coming home. The stories we’re developing right now – how the world unfolds over the next few years… Well, I can’t wait for y’all to see where we’re headed.SOON… :) https://t.co/7hPIR8YEr0September 26, 2023
The tweet also mentioned that Metzen will be attending the next Blizzcon - Blizzard’s annual convention. Taking place this November, Blizzard stated: “At Blizzcon, [Metzen] and the team will be sharing what we’ve been working on. We hope to see you there!”
Metzen not only worked as creative director on seminal RTSWarcraft 3: Reign of Chaos, but he also contributed a great deal of script writing, artwork, and voice work toWorld of Warcraftahead of its launch back in 2004. He is also well known for his role as the voice of Thrall, an orc leader and freedom fighter who plays a significant role in theWarcraftstoryline.
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However you look at it, Metzen’s work is firmly embedded in the history ofWarcraftand he seems very well qualified to steer the MMO into the next phase of its development. ThoughWorld of Warcraft: Dragonflighthas received a broadly positive reception, the bitter aftertaste of thedisappointingShadowlandsexpansionstill remains. The long-running MMO would likely benefit from an injection of some classic Blizzard magic and, perhaps, with Metzen’s return, it’ll get just that.
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An editor and freelance journalist, Cat Bussell has been writing about video games for more than four years and, frankly, she’s developed a taste for it. As seen on TechRadar, Technopedia, The Gamer, Wargamer, and SUPERJUMP, Cat’s reviews, features, and guides are lovingly curated for your reading pleasure.
A Cambridge graduate, recovering bartender, and Cloud Strife enjoyer, Cat’s foremost mission is to bring you the best coverage she can, whether that’s through helpful guides, even-handed reviews, or thought-provoking features. She’s interviewed indie darlings, triple-A greats, and legendary voice actors, all to help you get closer to the action. When she’s not writing, Cat can be found sticking her neck into a fresh RPG or running yet another Dungeons & Dragons game.
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