Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo studio Blizzard Entertainment hits 35 years old — marks its first milestone under Microsoft Gaming

February 8, 2026 - 22:05

The iconic studio behind some of gaming's most legendary franchises has reached a significant milestone, marking its 35th anniversary. This celebration coincides with its first major landmark as part of Microsoft Gaming, following the monumental acquisition completed last year.

Founded in 1991, the company initially honed its craft through ports for systems like the Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis. However, its path to industry immortality was truly forged in a remarkable four-year period in the mid-to-late 1990s. The studio unleashed three genre-defining originals that would spawn enduring universes: the revolutionary real-time strategy epic Warcraft: Orcs & Humans in 1994, the dark gothic action of Diablo in 1996, and the seminal sci-fi shooter StarCraft in 1998. These titles established a reputation for polished gameplay, deep lore, and unparalleled multiplayer experiences.

The studio's legacy continued to expand with the massively influential World of Warcraft and modern hits like Overwatch. Now, as it enters this new chapter, the focus is on its future under Microsoft, with fans eagerly awaiting the next evolution of its beloved worlds. The anniversary serves as a testament to a history of shaping gaming culture and the anticipation for what this veteran creator will build next.