Blizzard Celebrates 35 Years: A Look at Legacy and the Future of Game Preservation
Blizzard Entertainment recently marked its 35th anniversary with a stunning visual tribute – a 35-foot long table showcasing over 400 artifacts from the company’s history. This isn’t just a nostalgic look back; it’s a powerful statement about the growing importance of game preservation and the evolving relationship between developers and their communities.
The Power of Physical Archives in a Digital World
In an industry increasingly dominated by digital distribution, Blizzard’s commitment to maintaining a robust physical archive is noteworthy. The company’s archives currently hold an estimated 13,500 cubic feet of physical assets, receiving recent submissions weekly. This dedication goes beyond simply collecting memorabilia; it’s about preserving the tangible history of game development – from original concept art and early prototypes to marketing materials and fan creations.
This approach mirrors a broader trend within the entertainment industry. Collectors and institutions are recognizing the cultural significance of video games, leading to increased efforts to archive and preserve them. The Strong National Museum of Play, for example, actively collects and exhibits video games and related artifacts, recognizing their importance as a cultural medium.
One-Shot Storytelling: A New Approach to Brand Narrative
The anniversary video, featuring a single, uninterrupted shot sweeping across the artifact-laden table, is a masterclass in visual storytelling. This deliberate choice, according to Blizzard’s senior creative director Jens, was intended to evoke the feeling of sharing family history around a dinner table. The unbroken camera movement emphasizes the continuity of Blizzard’s legacy and invites viewers to connect with the story on a deeper level.
This technique aligns with a growing trend in marketing and brand storytelling – a move away from fragmented, fast-paced content towards more immersive and emotionally resonant experiences. Brands are increasingly using long-form video and interactive narratives to build stronger connections with their audiences.
The Human Element: Employees as Guardians of the Legacy
The video’s production involved the hands of Blizzard employees arranging and interacting with the artifacts. This subtle detail underscores the human element behind the games and reinforces the idea that the company’s history is a collective effort.
This focus on employee involvement is a smart move. In today’s talent market, showcasing a company’s culture and values is crucial for attracting and retaining top talent. Highlighting the dedication and passion of the people behind the games can be a powerful recruitment tool.
Looking Ahead: Blizzard’s Showcase and the Future of Gaming
The 35th-anniversary celebration culminates in the Blizzard Showcase, promising updates on World of Warcraft, Overwatch, Diablo, and Hearthstone. This event signals Blizzard’s commitment to continuing its legacy of innovative game development and engaging with its community.
The company’s president, Johanna Faries, emphasized that the showcase is not just a retrospective but also a reaffirmation of Blizzard’s ambitions for the future. This suggests a renewed focus on long-term game development and a willingness to invest in new ideas, and technologies.
FAQ
Q: What was the oldest item featured on the anniversary table?
A: A receipt for the very first order of business cards for Silicon & Synapse, the company’s original name.
Q: How many artifacts were used in the anniversary video?
A: Approximately 400 artifacts were selected from a pool of 1,600 items pulled from the Blizzard archives.
Q: Where can I watch the Blizzard Showcase?
A: Check Blizzard.com for showtimes and viewing options.
Q: How large is Blizzard’s physical archive?
A: The archive contains an estimated 13,500 cubic feet of physical assets.
Did you understand? The newest item on the table was a remnant of Doomfist, a character from Overwatch.
Pro Tip: Explore the Blizzard archives blog for more behind-the-scenes glimpses into the company’s history and preservation efforts.
What are your favorite Blizzard memories? Share them in the comments below!
