NetEase vs. Blizzard
Blizzard China published an open letter on Weibo, proclaiming that after the agreement between the two parties was ended, Blizzard actively looked for amendments, while NetEase dismissed all the proposals offered by Blizzard.
Later on the same day, NetEase told its side of the story, responding to Blizzard's accusations in three main aspects.
Below is the highlighted translated announcement from NetEase:
1. A note on "NetEase rejects Blizzard's proposed six-month service extension".
Activision Blizzard announced on November 17, 2022 Beijing time that it will suspend the service of Blizzard games distributed by Shanghai NetEase in mainland China, effective at 00:00 on January 24, 2023.
Blizzard China issued an updated statement today (January 17, 2023) stating that during this period Blizzard has initiated a search for a new partner. For unknowable reasons, last week Blizzard re-sought NetEase with an offer of a so-called six-month extension of the game service and other conditions, and made it clear that it would not stop continuing negotiations with other potential partners during the contract extension. And as far as we know, Blizzard's negotiations with other companies during the same period were all based on a three-year contract period. Considering the non-reciprocity, unfairness and other conditions attached to the cooperation, the two sides could not reach an agreement in the end.
2. Regarding the media reports that "NetEase wants to control the IP", a statement is given.
As an agency, NetEase has never sought control of Blizzard games or other partners' IPs. During the past fourteen years of long-term cooperation, NetEase's use and licensing of any Blizzard IPs has been in accordance with the terms of the contract and has obtained Blizzard's consent and approval. All IP cooperation with other partners is also based on this principle.
3. Updates on archiving the progress of World of Warcraft gamers.
As for the World of Warcraft game progress archive feature that Blizzard China mentioned in its statement about the launch tomorrow (January 18, 2023 Beijing time), we are obliged to remind all players that this feature is unilaterally proposed and developed by Blizzard online, without testing and use by NetEase side, and may have unknown security risks. If this feature causes loss of virtual property or inability to play, Blizzard shall bear full responsibility.
Aside from the quarrel between the two parties and the toe-to-toe confrontation, NetEase still expressed its determination to "accompany players through their last times with the Chinese server" and best wishes.
Source: NetEase