Blizzard Announces Dates for BlizzCon 2008

Blizzard Entertainment announced today that planning has begun for its third Blizzcon gaming convention to take place in the Anaheim Convention Center on October 10th and 11th. BlizzCon, the company's successful series of consumer-oriented shows celebrating its products (most notably the Warcraft, Diablo and StarCraft franchises) began in 2005 and have become larger with each iteration, selling out quickly at the 2007 show. The 2008 event is expected to be largest yet, with Blizzard expanding the convention space devoted to the show from two halls to three.

In addition to offering the opportunity for players to meet and greet their favorite games' developers, previous BlizzCons have also acted as powerful marketing and PR platforms for the company. The 2005 BlizzCon gave gamers their first peek inside the then-upcoming The Burning Crusade expansion pack and their first hands-on with the Blood Elves. The 2007 BlizzCon marked the debut of Wrath of the Lich King, the first details about the Death Knight "hero" class and the chance to go hands-on with the Terrans and the Protoss in StarCraft II. While there has been no information regarding any such revelation awaiting this year's attendees, the company's past history shows that it is not likely to miss such an opportunity.

According to Blizzard's press release, even absent a new product announcement, 2008 BlizzCon attendees will have a full slate of programs and activities to enjoy. These include hands-on time with upcoming Blizzard titles (including the Wrath of the Lich King expansion for World of Warcraft), discussion panels with developers, Arena tournaments, a costume contest, and areas and activities devoted to Blizzard-licensed products such as board games and collectable card games. Tickets to the event will be on sale in the next few weeks and cost U.S. $100.

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