Bobby Kotick Set to Depart from Activision Blizzard

After 32 years as the head of Activision Blizzard, Bobby Kotick will be leaving the company on December 29th. This departure comes after Microsoft’s $68.7bn acquisition, which was planned to ensure a smooth transition under new management.

Under Microsoft, the Activision executives, including Blizzard president Mike Ybarra, will report to Xbox exec Matt Booty. Additionally, Microsoft exec Jill Braff will be taking on the role of Head of ZeniMax/Bethesda studios.

In an email to Activision Blizzard employees, Kotick expressed his fondness for gaming and his appreciation for the team’s hard work. While his future plans were not specified, he thanked the staff and commended Xbox boss Phil Spencer.

According to internal memos from Microsoft staff, Kotick’s departure was confirmed by Spencer, who also acknowledged the departure of Lulu Meservey, Activision Blizzard’s chief communications officer. Booty detailed the new responsibilities of Jill Braff, emphasizing the exciting opportunities ahead for the studios.

Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard in January 2022 led to this significant change in management, following a period of turmoil for the publisher. With Kotick’s departure, the company is now poised to enter a new chapter under new leadership.