It appears as though Blizzard is readying to announce some new information to gamers during this month, as they have announced to several media sources including IGN that they will have a special announcement at Gamescom in Germany August 21-25, with Blizzard's presentation coming on the first day of the expo. Blizzard sent invitations to various press outlets promising that "We're making a special announcement that's sure to capture the attention of the Heavens, Burning Hells and all the shadowed places that lie between."
Speculation has run while over what Blizzard will be announcing at Gamescom. Based on the descriptive from the invitation, it looks as though the company will be announcing news for Diablo 3. Specifically, it looks as though Blizzard may finally give out details about the game's first expansion, which was announced last year. Blizzard may also potentially give out details about the console version of the game, which is set to be released on the PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. So far Blizzard has only confirmed that the PlayStation 4 version of Diablo 3 will have a 2014 release date, due to a delay in getting a development kit for the next-gen console. Of course, Blizzard could pull something random out of their hat, like they did at PAX East earlier this year with the announcement of Hearthstone Heroes. We will just have to wait and see what Blizzard has in store for gamers at Gamescom.
Gamescom is shaping up to be quite the event. In addition to Blizzard's special announcement, The Elder Scrolls Online by Bethesda will be playable during the event for those hoping to try the heavily hyped MMO. Sony will also be at the event, promising to release new information about the PlayStation 4 and the host of first-party games that Sony is developing for the console. Microsoft recently announced they will host an event at Gamescom as well for the Xbox One. There is a distinct possibility that one or both of the consoles could get an official release date set at Gamescom, though nothing has been promised by either companies.
Look out for more information about Gamescom, Blizzard, and Diablo 3 as we get closer to the event and developers and publishers get ready to release new information at the event. We will report any and all preview information for Gamescom as it comes in.