Although Activision Blizzard is officially a part of Xbox now (we still can't believe it either), questions remain about the future of the company under Microsoft and if there'll be any structural changes in the near future. Well, thanks to statements from both Phil Spencer and Activision CEO Bobby Kotick, we do know about one major change in the pipeline.
Kotick, who has been in charge of Activision Blizzard for more than three decades, is officially set to depart the company in 2024. For the rest of this year he will report to Xbox boss Phil Spencer to ensure a seamless transition to Microsoft ownership. Here's what Kotick had to say on the move:
"I have long said that I am fully committed to helping with the transition. Phil has asked me to stay on as CEO of ABK, reporting to him, and we have agreed that I will do that through the end of 2023. We both look forward to working together on a smooth integration for our teams and players."
Phil himself has also commented on this, reiterating that a steady transition will help the two companies successfully merge in the coming months (thanks, The Verge).
"We couldn’t be more excited that Activision Blizzard employees are our colleagues, co-workers, and teammates. Bobby Kotick has agreed to remain in his role through the end of 2023, reporting directly to me, to ensure a smooth and seamless integration. We look forward to working together as a unified team and we will share more updates on our new organizational structure in the coming months."
Kotick has cut a controversial figure as Activision Blizzard CEO in recent years, especially since allegations of misconduct at the company began to emerge in 2021. Once this transition has gone through, Phil Spencer's Microsoft Gaming CEO role is expected to evolve and include responsibility over Activision Blizzard and its studios.