Behind the announcement that Bobby Kotick will be leaving Activision Blizzard after a storied tenure is a long and controversial career. After serving as the Chief Executive Officer for 11 years, his announcement signals a new era in the gaming giant’s history.
Kotick, now 61, was first appointed CEO of Activision in 1991. Over the years, Kotick has overseen the release of some of the iconic video games of all time, including the Call of Duty and Skylanders franchises. During his tenure, Kotick also merged Activision with Blizzard Entertainment, creating the world’s biggest gaming company.
Kotick’s career, however, has not been without its share of controversy. Critics have accused him of driving a hard bargain with developers and executives, often to the detriment of the company. Moreover, Kotick has been accused of prioritizing short-term profits instead of long-term growth.
Still, Kotick has carved out a legacy as one of the most influential figures in gaming history. Under his guidance, Activision Blizzard achieved years of success and growth. The company is now worth an estimated $59.2 billion, with millions of active players worldwide.
Kotick’s announcement ends a highly successful journey that started in the early ’90s. With the gaming industry set to continue its growth into the future, Kotick’s legacy will continue to shape the course of the industry.