Microsoft Will Let Activision Continue Making ‘Call of Duty’ for PlayStation

When Microsoft recently purchased Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion, the deal raised questions over the fate of “Call of Duty.” 

Last Wednesday, the software giant announced  it would allow Activision to continue making the game for PlayStation even after its current contract expires, several outlets reported.

The decision is part of Microsoft’s broader attempt to make the acquisition more palatable to regulators, who will likely give a “tough review” to the proposed deal, according to The New York Times 

“We’re more focused on adapting to regulation than fighting against it,” Microsoft president and vice chair Brad Smith told reporters. The deal is expected to close in 2023.

Embattled Reputation

Activision Blizzard has drawn the ire of several regulators for alleged gender-based misconduct and toxic workplace culture allegations.

• The Securities and Exchange Commission launched an investigation in 2021.
• The company paid an $18 million settlement to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission following an investigation.
• The California Department of Fair Housing and Employment filed a lawsuit.

The company has reportedly been working to clean up the alleged problems.