As social distancing remains necessary, now is the best time to dive into a good book, and Blizzard has a ton of great options available to gives fans a deeper look into the world of Diablo, World of Warcraft, Overwatch, and more. There is something for readers and fans of all ages with several formats to choose from, including novels, comics, manga, and audiobook options from the popular franchises.
World Of Warcraft
Excitement is already high as players eagerly await the drop of the next expansion, and the new book World of Warcraft: Shadowlands – Shadows Rising is by far the best way to learn about what lies ahead as Sylvanas Windrunner turns her back to the Horde and those she vowed to protect. The aftermath of her betrayal has left factions within the Horde devastated and looking towards what could lie ahead.
As the events of Shadows Rising lead right to the start of the expansion and are sure to be referenced throughout, this is the best way to prepare for the experience prior to launch with a release date set for July 14, 2020, and is best for teens and older.
Blizzard Legends
For those who prefer graphic novels, Blizzard Legends offer three exciting reads that are not set in the current climate leading up to Shadowlands, but as their name implies, explore some of the more significant events in the game lore. Book one is World of Warcraft: Mage, book two is The Demon Soul, and book three is War of the Ancients. These are great for any fan and make great reads and gifts.
The Dark World Of Diablo For Older Readers
Targeting an older audience for this series comes as no surprise, as many of these works delve into the deep, dark secrets of the Lord of Hell and others who seek to overthrow the forces of Heaven. Diablo: The Kingdom of Shadow and Diablo: The Sin War – Book One – Birthright follow the Legends style of storytelling described above, where some of the most important events in the game lore are presented in gripping detail.
Best of all, both are being released as audiobooks, making them perfect as listening material while climbing the ladder in Diablo 3 current season, or spending time outside, safely away from other people, we hope.
Diablo: The Sin War – Book Three – The Veiled Prophet will also be launching as a physical release. All of these would make a fantastic addition to any fan of the Diablo series, and these are a good way to learn more about the lore before Diablo 4 finally launches, or to finally know exactly what the characters go on and on about in game when discussing past history.
StarCraft For Teens And Up
Although we have not had any new games in the StarCraft series for some time, there is still so much to explore in the lore between the Terran, Zerg, and Protoss. StarCraft: Shadow of the Xel’Naga primarily takes place between the events of the first game and its Brood War expansion.
Each race is at odds to capture a valuable artifact, but each with completely different ends. One of the best parts of the book the in-depth look at the communications between Terran command, as their short-sighted, prideful maneuvers will only cost the lives of their fellow men and women. Best of all, Shadow of the Xel’Naga is available as a physical release, an eBook, and an audio book.
Another exciting option is the intriguing Dark Templar Saga, which consists of three books releasing in several formats as well. StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga – Book Two – Shadow Hunters will now be available as an audiobook, while StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga – Book Three – Twilight.
Finally, StarCraft: WarChest – Shadow Wars: The Complete Comic Collection explores the complexity of the corrupt Dominion when the three races are not fighting for planetary dominance. The themes feel strikingly similar to how Arturus Mengsk controlled the Terran Dominion, not only through guile and strategy, but through betrayal and sacrificing a few pawns, which would be basically anyone but himself.
Blizzard has also recently released a book that is perfect for Young Adult readers with Overwatch: The Hero of Numbani, which explores the life of Efi, Orisa’s creator after a devastating attack by Doomfist. Readers can click here to learn a bit more about what lies ahead in this book. All in all, there is something here for every kind of fan of these great Blizzard games!
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