Bobby Kotick announces his departure from Activision Blizzard after decades of success and controversy over abuse

Bobby Kotick announced his retirement as executive director Activision Blizzard, after more than three decades at the helm of the company. Although his departure was confirmed following the completion of the merger with Microsoft, the manager confirmed that he would remain during the transition. The deadline will be met in a few days, and Kitty says goodbye to the company that has become a titan of the video game industry.

In a letter sent to employees, Bobby Kotick said goodbye and took the opportunity to list the accomplishments achieved during his leadership. Controversial leader He took control of the company after purchasing it in 1991. for $500,000. Kotick and several shareholders saw the future potential of video games and restructured the company, which was on the verge of bankruptcy.

“Forty years later, as I approach my last day at the helm of this company, I am amazed at how far the talented people in our company have come to harness the enormous potential of games,” the manager said. “They have turned amateur entertainment into the most exciting medium in the world. “It has been an honor to work alongside you as we expand the appeal of gaming.”

Although Activision is one of the most profitable companies thanks to Call of DutyBobby Kotick’s management has always been in the spotlight. intellectual property development strategy for its annual use was questioned by the industry and fans. Franchises such as Guitar Hero, Skylanders or Professional figure skater Tony Hawk They reached a saturation point and were thrown out when the fad passed.

controversy was not limited to his business practices, but also to the allegations of sexual harassment and discrimination that brought him California lawsuitin the United States.

Bobby Kotick is leaving Activision with his pockets full

Bobby Kotick He will leave his position on December 29, 2023.. The manager walks away with a check for $400 million, equivalent to the sale of his stock. Following the announcement of his departure, Microsoft announced changes to the company and confirmed that The cat won’t be the only one.

In accordance with EdgePhil Spencer sent out an internal memo to his employees to communicate changes to the internal structure. Microsoft will remain with Mike Ibarra, president of Blizzardand Rob Kostic, president of publishing at Activision. Both join Thomas Tipple, vice president of Activision, who will report to Matt Booty, president of Microsoft Studios.

The remaining Activision Blizzard executives involved in administration, human resources, finance and legal affairs will remain in their positions until the end of the transition period. Microsoft I will also say goodbye to Lulu Cheng, communications director, one of the loudest voices during the FTC trial. Cheng will leave the company in Januaryand Tipple and the rest of the managers will do the same in March 2024.

“These leadership changes will provide the clarity and accountability needed to achieve our ambitious goals, while also promoting a welcoming, empowering and engaging gaming culture for everyone,” said Phil Spencer. “We have an exciting lineup of games from Activision, Bethesda, Blizzard, King and Xbox Game Studios coming in 2024, and I know we’re all looking forward to sharing more details with our gaming communities when the time comes.” .