Microsoft Buys CoD Publisher Activision-Blizzard For $68.7 Billion
Editor’s Note: A lawsuit has been filed against Activision Blizzard by the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing, which alleges the company has engaged in abuse, discrimination, and retaliation against its female employees. Activision Blizzard has denied the allegations. The full details of the Activision Blizzard lawsuit (content warning: rape, suicide, abuse, harassment) are being updated as new information becomes available
In a historic move, Microsoft has officially confirmed plans to buy Call of Duty publisher Activision Blizzard for a reported $68.7 billion. Activision Blizzard is one of the biggest names in gaming, and is home to a number of immensely successful games including World of Warcraft, Diablo, Overwatch, and more.
Throughout 2021, Activision faced intense scrutiny following allegations of sexual misconduct within a reportedly toxic workplace culture. Multiple investigations and lawsuits were opened throughout the year as the company was accused of sexual harassment, discrimination, and more, with staff protests continuing into 2022. The company also suffered from disappointing game releases, with Call of Duty: Vanguard reportedly failing to meet sales expectations.
Related: PlayStation, Xbox & Nintendo React To Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick Scandal [UPDATED]
It now seems that Microsoft is stepping in, as the company has confirmed that it will be purchasing Activision Blizzard. According to Wall Street Journal, Microsoft is expected to pay $68.7 billion for Activision (via Dina Bass). This deal will make Microsoft the third-biggest gaming company behind Tencent and Sony. In 2020, Microsoft acquired Bethesda for $7.5 billion in what was thought to be one of the biggest moves the
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