As the strange year of 2020 approaches its end, there is a lot to unpack on what has been a historic year in numerous ways. The impetus of the year's strange tidings is the still ongoing global pandemic of Covid-19. One area that required people to adapt throughout 2020 was the requirement of face masks and the greater acceptance of what became a necessary accessory. With face masks still being a key piece for any outdoor activities, one video game developer is deciding to make branded protectors.
Branded face masks are nothing new, even in the world of video games. Numerous titles and publishers have used the opportunity to present gamer branded face year to make sure that even if the mask is required, it can at least be used to demonstrate a passion for gaming. With publishers like Square Enix releasing branded face masks earlier in the year, it comes as a surprise that one of the most popular developers ever is hopping on the trend so late.
Developer Blizzard is now getting in on the face mask action by releasing branded masks to help prevent the spread of Covid-19. The developer is selling triple packs of face masks as part its annual Blizzard Gearfest. This is the same event where Blizzard previously touted exclusive World of Warcraft: Shadlowlands merchandise.
There are currently nine sets of masks available for preorder with each pack consisting of three masks for $24.99. The sets themselves are based on the big titles from the Blizzard library which include Diablo, Overwatch, Warcraft, Hearthstone, Starcraft, and Heroes of the Storm. Of the nine available mask packs, Warcraft or Overwatch both receive two sets with the latter even getting a very vibrant D.Va mask playing of the characters immense popularity with cosplayers and fans.
The other four titles only get one mask set each despite the immense popularity of a few of them. With Diablo 4 currently in development, it's surprising Blizzard opted not to utilize the fanfare over the upcoming RPG. Starcraft and Heroes of the Storm are less surprising however, due to both games seeing Blizzard slowly step away from any form of significant support. In Starcraft's case, the developer recently announced it would be ending support for StarCraft 2.
The reveal of these masks may be seen as somewhat late as the pandemic effectively began in the early months of 2020, but the requirement of masks won't simply go away. The timing of the mask preorders during Blizzard's Gearfest does come at a time when Blizzard prepares for another big release. World of Warcraft: Shadowlands officially launches in just two weeks likely to reinvigorate the Warcraft fanbase.
Source: Blizzard