Blizzard head outlines what 'we are doing to rebuild your trust in Blizzard'

pcgamer.com:

Earlier this week Microsoft announced it intended to acquire Activision Blizzard for an eye-watering $68.7 billion. This is the largest deal in gaming history and the ramifications of it will be felt for years to come, but some of the immediate questions are about a series of harassment lawsuits faced by the company, and ongoing allegations about Blizzard's workplace culture and treatment of female employees.

Former Blizzard president J Allen Brack stepped down in August 2021 in the wake of a lawsuit filed by California's Department of Fair Employment and Housing alleging widespread discrimination and sexual harassment at the company. He was replaced by Mike Ybarra and Jen Oneal, who took over as co-heads of the studio, marking the first time that Blizzard had been led by a woman.

Three months later, however, Oneal announced that she would leave Blizzard by the end of the 2021. It later emerged that, during her time in post, she had been paid less than her male counterpart.

Following announcement of the proposed Microsoft acquisition, Blizzard head Mike Ybarra has written a blogpost addressing the deal and the company's plans with regards to workplace culture.

«I’ve been leading Blizzard for a couple of months now, and in addition to the exciting news this week, I want to share some initial thoughts as we strive to put our team and players at the forefront of everything we do,» writes Ybarra.

«2021 was challenging for all of us. As individuals, we care about treating everyone around us with respect and dignity. As professionals, we care deeply about our crafts, and we want to work in the most supportive and safe environment possible.

»Our top priority—now and into the future—is the work we are doing to rebuild your trust