Bobby Kotick, CEO of Activision Blizzard, has been heavily reported this week since Microsoft’s purchase of the company. It has been alleged that Kotick wanted to buy the popular game publications PC Gamer and Kotaku. Reports say the CEO hoped to change how Activision was being reported on in the media.
The Wall Street Journal reported just yesterday on how Microsoft was able to purchase Activision more easily due to ongoing turmoil taking place at the company. A small portion of the report states, “Mr. Kotick has been eager to change the public narrative about the company, and in recent weeks has suggested Activision Blizzard make some kind of acquisition, including of gaming-trade publications like Kotaku and PC Gamer, according to people familiar with him.” Kotick was allegedly tired of the bad press the company was receiving and wished to change the public’s perception of him and Activision.
Additionally, WSJ clarifies that an Activision spokeswoman disputed the accusation that Kotick wanted to purchase the publications. It was also added that both Kotaku and PC Gamer didn’t respond to a request for comment.
The announcement that Microsoft will acquire Activision Blizzard was only announced on Tuesday. The news sent shockwaves across the gaming industry with reports that Microsoft will purchase the company for $95 per share and pay $68.7 billion in total. Gamers and industry insiders were sent into a frenzy as the acquisition means Microsoft will now own Call of Duty, Overwatch, Warcraft, Crash Bandicoot, and more. The deal is expected to officially close on June 30, 2023, at the end of Microsoft’s fiscal year.
Although it has been confirmed that Bobby Kotick will stay on as CEO of Activision once the deal is complete, the Wall Street Journal also reported that sources say he will leave after the deal closes.
It will be exciting to see how this acquisition changes the face of gaming.
