The long-awaited deal between Microsoft and Activision Blizzard has lastly been accomplished.
The tech big has acquired the gaming big for $68.7 billion, making it the proprietor of a number of the hottest franchises within the business, akin to Call of Duty, Overwatch, World of Warcraft, and Candy Crush.
One of the largest questions that surrounded the deal was the destiny of Bobby Kotick, the controversial CEO of Activision Blizzard. Kotick has confronted criticism for his management type, his dealing with of sexual harassment allegations inside the firm, and his aggressive monetization methods throughout video games.
Kotick has now confirmed his plans for the long run. In a letter to staff, he wrote, “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 now join one of the most successful global companies, poised for unprecedented opportunities to connect the world through our games.”
However, Kotick isn’t leaving empty-handed. According to the BBC, Kotick is about to obtain a whopping $400 million from the sale of his shares in Activision Blizzard, whereas chairman Brian Kelly will get $100 million.
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“Microsoft is paying cash for Activision at a premium price of $95 per share, meaning the chief executive of the World of Warcraft maker, Bobby Kotick, is set for a $400m payday, with chairman Brian Kelly earning $100m, based on the shares they own,” the BBC mentioned.
It is unclear if that is the full quantity that Kotick will obtain, or if he’ll get extra compensation after he steps down.
How this can have an effect on common franchises?
It’s arduous to say, however some blame Kotick for the alleged poisonous work tradition and monetization ways that many gamers argue have made gaming worse. Only time will inform if these complaints are alleviated with the Microsoft takeover.
Source web site: www.hindustantimes.com