Blizzard and CureDuchenne Join Forces for World of Warcraft Charity Initiative

Gaming for a Cause: World of Warcraft and CureDuchenne Join Forces

In the sprawling realms of Azeroth, where epic battles and fantastical adventures unfold, a poignant story is emerging that transcends the screen. Blizzard Entertainment, the powerhouse behind *World of Warcraft*, is teaming up with CureDuchenne, a nonprofit dedicated to tackling Duchenne muscular dystrophy, to launch an in-game promotion that’s both heartwarming and impactful. This initiative is more than just a marketing ploy; it’s a way to honor the legacy of a young gamer whose life was profoundly shaped by his experiences in the game.

The inspiration behind this partnership is Mats Steen, a Norwegian player known in the gaming world as Ibelin. Mats’s journey, captured in the Netflix documentary *The Remarkable Life of Ibelin*, is a touching reminder of how gaming can create connections that often go unseen. Living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy—a rare and severe muscle-wasting disease—Mats faced challenges that many of us can hardly fathom. Yet, through *World of Warcraft*, he found a vibrant community, a network of friends, and a sense of belonging that enriched his life. It’s a powerful reminder of how virtual worlds can offer real solace.

When Mats passed away at just 25, his family discovered that the isolation they feared he experienced was, in fact, a life filled with joy and camaraderie. His friends in the game shared stories of his kindness and wisdom, painting a picture of a young man who made a significant impact on those around him. Isn’t it fascinating how a simple game can weave such intricate stories of connection and support?

Now, players have the chance to continue Mats’s legacy by adopting a limited-edition pet in *World of Warcraft*. Enter the Reven Pack, available for $20 from now until January 7, 2025. This charming fox companion, aptly named Reven (which means “fox” in Norwegian), will accompany players on their quests, while also contributing to a meaningful cause. For those diving into the modern version of the game, there’s an added bonus: a transmog backpack, Reven’s Comfy Carrier, featuring a sleepy Reven nestled inside. It’s a cute addition that not only enhances gameplay but also serves as a reminder of the impact each player can have.

What’s even more compelling is that 100% of the purchase price will go directly to CureDuchenne. This funding is crucial for advancing research towards a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy and improving care for individuals living with the disease. Debra Miller, the founder and CEO of CureDuchenne, expressed her gratitude, emphasizing how this partnership can bring hope to families affected by Duchenne. “Mats Steen brought hope and support to so many who were lucky enough to know him,” she said. “With the generous support of the World of Warcraft community, we will help more boys and young men like Mats live longer, stronger lives.”

Holly Longdale, the executive producer of *World of Warcraft*, echoed this sentiment, sharing her admiration for Mats and his family. “Working with CureDuchenne for our Charity Pet Program, in honor of Mats’ memory, allows us to harness the power of our phenomenal global community to bring meaningful impact to so many lives.” It’s hard not to feel a sense of warmth when you think about how a virtual pet can help change lives in the real world.

As you embark on your next quest in Azeroth, consider adopting Reven and joining this collective effort to make a difference. It’s a small gesture that can have a big impact, reminding us all that even in the digital realm, we have the power to bring about real change. So, what do you say? Ready to level up your gaming experience while supporting a worthy cause?