Activision Blizzard was an American video game holding company formed in 2008 through the merger of Activision and Vivendi Games. The company owned some of the most recognizable properties in gaming, including Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, Overwatch, Candy Crush, and Diablo. In October 2023, the company was acquired by Microsoft in a landmark $68.7 billion deal.
Esports Portfolio
Activision Blizzard operated several major esports properties through its subsidiaries. Blizzard Entertainment ran the Overwatch League, Overwatch Champions Series, and StarCraft II esports, while Activision oversaw the Call of Duty League (CDL) and the Call of Duty Challengers circuit. The company also organized the BlizzCon esports events for Hearthstone, World of Warcraft, and StarCraft.
Controversies and Legal Issues
In 2021, the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing filed a lawsuit against Activision Blizzard alleging widespread discrimination and harassment. The lawsuit had significant repercussions for the company’s esports operations, including the withdrawal of nearly all Overwatch League sponsors. The case marked one of the most consequential moments in gaming industry labor relations.