Blizzard + Microsoft = win?

At GDC, Blizzard’s Rob Pardo stated that the company has been chatting to Microsoft about the next iteration of the Xbox, implying that the next-gen technical specifications of the console may match the requirements needed to run World of Warcraft effectively. In terms of planning ahead, it’s an ingenious move by Microsoft. Still, with console MMOs unproven, the impact of having this cultural phenomenon on an Xbox platform remains to be seen.

What we can say, though, is that there’s no harm in trying. With over 11 million subscribers and more discovering it every day, capitalising on the home console userbase – many of whom won’t even be aware, of a PC MMO – is a mutually beneficial move for both Blizzard and Microsoft. If WoW translates well, to a home console, it’ll certainly give Microsoft the edge in the next generation.

Short of tapping into the casual consciousness with a Wii Fit-sized monster hit, it’s probably the best the company can do on all fronts.