Blizzard apologises for the way it handled blitzchung suspension

Blizzard has used the opening ceremonies of this year’s BlizzCon to apologise for the way it handled the suspension of Hearthstone player Ng Wai ‘blitzchung’ Chung.

“Before we start the opening ceremony, I want to say a few words. You know, Blizzard had the opportunity to bring the world together in a tough, Hearthstone esports moment about a month ago, and we did not. We moved too quickly with our decision making and then made matters worse we were too slow to talk with all of you,” Blizzard’s president, J. Allen Brack began.

“The first one is we didn’t live up to the high standards that we really set for ourselves. The second is we failed our purpose. For that, I’m sorry and I accept accountability.

“We will do better going forward. But our actions are going to matter more than any of these words.”

As Eurogamer noted, Brack’s apology wasn’t enough in the minds of the protestors picketing BlizzCon.

“It’s always a good start to know people are paying attention to us, that the pressure is working, but we need more from them,” Dayton Young, organiser of the protest, told the publication.

“The true opinion of Blizzard was exemplified by their initial reaction to what happened,” Young continued. “I don’t think they’re apologising because it’s the right thing to do. They’re apologising because it helps their bottom line at this point.

“What do I want Blizzard to do? I want Blizzard to allow free speech on their platforms. They’re an American company, they should adhere to American values not Chinese values.”

Hearthstone player Ng Wai ‘blitzchung’ Chung was denied access to his current season’s prize winnings and was initially suspended for 12 months after shouting “Liberate Hong Kong, revolution of our age!” during a livestream. His punishment was later cut to six months, with Blizzard asserting that China had nothing to do with the suspension.

Thankfully, blitzchung has recently been signed by pro team Tempo Storm.