It's been three and a half months since Blizzard banned professional Hearthstone player Blitzchung following his comments supporting pro-independence Hong Kong protests. It would grow into one of the industry's biggest controversies of 2019 as Blizzard fans accused the company of capitulating to pressure from the Chinese government. Blizzard would go on to shrink Blitzchung's ban, but ultimately stood by its decision. Now, Blitzchung, says he'd do it all over again.
"If I had a chance to go back, I would still do it," Blitzchung explains in an interview with People Make Games. Blitzchung continues to play Hearthstone and has even joined a new esports team in Tempo Storm, which he livestreams for. His ban from professional tournaments remains in-place for another several months, though Blitzchung does seem intent to return.
In the interview, Blitzchung explains his thought process going into the interview that set off the controversy. He says how the protests often take place on weekends in Hong Kong. That weekend, Blitzchung was playing in the Hearthstone tournament, thinking about the protests and wanting to do something. He decided to say something that day, likely between winning the tournament and the interview itself. His exact words on the Blizzard broadcast were, "Liberate Hong Kong; revolution of our age."
Asked directly about the Hong Kong controversy, Blitzchung admits that while he's understanding of Blizzard's decisions, he's still disappointed. "Blizzard is like Hong Kong right now. Maybe it's getting worse, but I don't hate it." He confirms that Blizzard hasn't directly apologized to him, but also says he never expected it. To Blitzchung, Blizzard's actions speak louder than words. Considering Blitzchung was still severely punished, it's safe to say a direct apology wouldn't have had much weight.
What's most striking about the interview is Blitzchung's awareness of the situation he's found himself in. To many, the situation is about Blizzard and the company's relationship with China. To Blitzchung, it's about his place in Hong Kong and the growing tensions with China. Blitzchung admits he's worried about how the controversy has given focus to his voice. "When you're more well-known, you're more dangerous," he admits, insinuating it could make him a target for retribution, but Blitzchung is hopeful that the protests will be successful nevertheless.
Asked if Blitzchung would still do the Blizzard interview the same way, he says he would. "It's a must-do thing." "I have to do it."