This system of correlation is how I am addressing the expansion release:
Blizzcon 2005 was Summer and announced The Burning Crusade, which launched in January 2007
Blizzcon 2007 was Summer and announced Wrath of the Lich King, which will probably launch around January 2009
Also consider:
- They are still doing Alpha testing, no Beta stage, and no public beta... yet
- They still need to show off preliminary versions at the Blizzcon Europe / Worldwide Invitation Event this month, and I think there's a further Blizzcon for October/November time, for more WOTLK goodness
- A
Q4-2008 or Q1-2009 gives Blizz good potential to rake in profit with Christmas present purchases for a core audience, and the Winter season for the northern hemisphere (the majority of their playerbase) fits nicely with the climate of Northrend. Why leave the house to go sledging when players have the roof of the world and an icy continent to play with?