Battle.net is the digital distribution platform and online gaming service provided by Blizzard Entertainment. It serves as a central hub for players to purchase, download, and launch Blizzard games, as well as connect with each other through chat, voice, and forums. While many of Blizzard‘s titles are paid, there are also several ways to enjoy Battle.net for free. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll explore everything you need to know about free gaming on Battle.net in 2024.
Creating Your Free Battle.net Account
The first step to accessing free games on Battle.net is creating your personal account. Here‘s how:
- Visit the official Battle.net website (https://www.blizzard.com/apps/battle.net/desktop) and click on ‘Create a Free Account‘.
- Enter your details including name, email address, and password. Alternatively, you can sign up using your Facebook, Google, or Apple account.
- Choose your unique BattleTag, which is the nickname that identifies you to friends on Battle.net. Your BattleTag can be up to 12 characters long.
- Download and install the Battle.net desktop app, then log in with your new account details.
It‘s important to note that creating your own account is the only safe and legitimate way to access Battle.net. While you might come across websites claiming to offer "free Battle.net accounts", these are usually shared accounts where the login details have been publicly posted. Not only is account sharing against Blizzard‘s Terms of Service, but it also puts your personal information at risk. Always create your own account – it‘s free, easy, and the best way to ensure a secure and enjoyable Battle.net experience.
Free-to-Play Games on Battle.net
While many of Blizzard‘s most popular titles are paid, Battle.net also offers an impressive selection of games that are completely free to play.
Overwatch 2
Overwatch 2, the sequel to Blizzard‘s hugely successful team-based shooter, made the transition to a free-to-play model in October 2022. All of the core game content, including heroes, maps, and modes, is available for free. Optional cosmetic items can be purchased in-game.
The shift to free-to-play has been hugely successful for Overwatch 2. In its first month of release, the game reached over 35 million players, according to Activision Blizzard‘s Q3 2022 financial report. This represents a significant increase from the original Overwatch, which had around 15 million monthly active users at its peak.
Hearthstone
Hearthstone, a digital collectible card game set in the Warcraft universe, has been a staple free-to-play title on Battle.net since its release in 2014. Players can earn card packs for free simply by playing the game, completing quests, and leveling up. While optional card packs can be purchased for real money, it‘s entirely possible to build a competitive collection without spending a dime.
Hearthstone remains one of the most popular digital card games, with an estimated 23.5 million players in 2022 according to Statista. The game also has an active esports scene, with the Hearthstone World Championship offering a prize pool of $500,000 in 2022.
Diablo Immortal
Diablo Immortal, released in June 2022, brings the iconic action RPG franchise to mobile devices and PC. The game features a full-length campaign, multiple character classes, and regular content updates, all for free. While there are optional in-game purchases, they are not required to progress or enjoy the game.
Despite some initial controversy around its monetization model, Diablo Immortal has proven to be a commercial success. The game generated over $100 million in revenue in its first two months, according to Sensor Tower data.
Other Free-to-Play Titles
In addition to the above, Battle.net offers several other notable free-to-play games:
- Heroes of the Storm: A MOBA featuring characters from across Blizzard‘s franchises. All heroes are free to play on a rotating basis.
- StarCraft II: The Wings of Liberty campaign and multiplayer modes are free, with the other campaigns available for purchase.
- World of Warcraft Starter Edition: Allows players to experience the game up to level 20 for free, with some restrictions.
Trials and Starter Editions
For Blizzard‘s paid games, Battle.net often offers limited free trials or starter editions. These provide a taste of the full game before you decide to purchase. Notable examples include:
- Diablo III Starter Edition: Lets you play up to the Skeleton King boss in Act I, with a level cap of 13.
- World of Warcraft Free Trial: Allows you to play up to level 20 with some restrictions. You can create multiple characters across different realms.
It‘s also worth keeping an eye out for free weekend promotions, where a normally paid game is made free to play for a limited time. These are often used to promote new expansions or updates.
Sales and Promotions
Another way to save on Blizzard games is through sales and promotions. Several times per year, usually around major holidays, Blizzard offers significant discounts on their titles.
For example, during the 2022 Black Friday sale, Blizzard offered 50% off the Shadowlands expansion for World of Warcraft, 50% off Overwatch: Legendary Edition (before it went free-to-play), and up to 67% off Call of Duty titles.
The Battle.net Shop also occasionally offers free in-game items or bonuses with certain purchases. For instance, pre-purchasing an expansion might come with exclusive skins or in-game currency.
Securing Your Battle.net Account
While enjoying free games on Battle.net, it‘s crucial to keep your account safe. Here are some tips:
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring a code from your mobile device in addition to your password when logging in. Here‘s how to set it up:
- Log in to your account on the Battle.net website and go to ‘Account Settings‘.
- Under the ‘Security‘ options, select ‘Enable Two-Factor Authentication‘.
- Choose whether to receive codes via the Battle.net mobile app or a third-party authenticator app.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
With 2FA enabled, even if someone obtains your password, they won‘t be able to access your account without the authentication code.
Choose a Strong Password
Use a unique, complex password for your Battle.net account. Avoid using the same password for multiple online services. Consider using a password manager to generate and store secure passwords.
Be Wary of Phishing Attempts
Phishing is when someone tries to trick you into revealing your login details, usually via a fake website or email. Always check that you‘re on the official Battle.net website before entering your login details. Blizzard will never ask for your password via email.
The Battle.net Companion App
For gaming on the go, Blizzard offers the Battle.net mobile app for iOS and Android. The app allows you to:
- Authenticate your logins using 2FA
- Chat with friends
- Check your game library
- Shop for games
- Read news and updates
The app is free to download and provides a convenient way to stay connected to your Battle.net account and friends even when you‘re away from your PC.
Achievements and Rewards
Battle.net features an extensive achievements system that tracks your in-game accomplishments. Each game has its own set of achievements, which can be viewed from your Battle.net profile. Earning achievements often comes with in-game rewards such as cosmetic items, titles, or experience bonuses.
There are also Battle.net-wide rewards for your overall gaming activity. For example, the ‘Recruit A Friend‘ program rewards you with free game time and exclusive mounts in World of Warcraft for recruiting new players to the game.
Battle.net vs Other Platforms
While Battle.net is an excellent platform for Blizzard games, it‘s not the only digital games store out there. Here‘s how it compares to some of the other major players:
Steam
Steam, operated by Valve Corporation, is the largest digital distribution platform for PC gaming, with a library of over 50,000 games from multiple publishers. While Steam offers a broader selection of games than Battle.net, it doesn‘t have Blizzard‘s exclusive titles. Steam also offers community features similar to Battle.net, such as friends lists, chat, and forums.
Epic Games Store
The Epic Games Store, from the makers of Fortnite, has made a splash in recent years by offering free games on a weekly basis. While its selection is more curated than Steam‘s, it also includes titles from various publishers. However, like Steam, it doesn‘t have Blizzard‘s games.
EA Play
EA Play is Electronic Arts‘ gaming subscription service. It offers access to a selection of EA games, as well as early trials and discounts on new releases. While it does have some third-party titles, it primarily features EA‘s own franchises such as Battlefield, FIFA, and The Sims.
One advantage of Battle.net is that all your Blizzard games are in one place and use the same friends list and chat system. On the other hand, using a more general store like Steam allows you to have your Blizzard games and titles from other publishers all in one library.
Conclusion
Despite being known for its blockbuster paid titles, Blizzard‘s Battle.net offers an array of options for free gaming. From fully free-to-play games like Overwatch 2 and Hearthstone, to generous trials of paid titles, there‘s plenty to enjoy without spending a penny.
By creating your own free Battle.net account, you not only get access to these games but also to the platform‘s extensive social features. You can connect with friends, join groups, and showcase your in-game achievements.
Just remember to always keep your account secure by using a strong password and enabling Two-Factor Authentication. And keep an eye out for sales and promotions to grab paid titles at a discount.
Whether you‘re a die-hard Blizzard fan or just curious about what the company has to offer, Battle.net provides a robust platform for free gaming. With a little know-how and some savvy shopping, you can experience the best of Blizzard without breaking the bank. Happy gaming!
