Do Activision Employees Get a Discount? The Inside Scoop
Yes, Activision Blizzard employees receive discounts on games and merchandise. The specific discount percentage, as indicated in the provided information, is 30%. This discount can be applied to purchases made at both the Blizzard Store and the Call of Duty Store. To access the discount, employees need to create an account using their employee email address, and the discount will be automatically applied to items in their cart. Beyond discounts, employees also benefit from other perks such as free games, and opportunities to participate in Alpha and Beta testing of new releases.
Employee Perks: A Deep Dive
Beyond just a simple discount, working at Activision Blizzard comes with a range of perks designed to attract and retain talent. These perks touch on everything from financial well-being to professional development and, of course, access to the games themselves. It’s a comprehensive package that reflects the company’s investment in its employees.
Financial Benefits
While the article highlights discounts and potential salaries, it’s crucial to understand the full spectrum of financial benefits offered. These often include:
- Comprehensive Healthcare: Coverage for medical, dental, and vision, ensuring employees have access to necessary care.
- Savings and Financial Benefits: Retirement plans like 401(k)s, potentially with company matching, as well as stock purchase programs.
- Life & Disability Insurance: Providing financial security for employees and their families in case of unforeseen circumstances.
- Adoption Assistance: Helping employees navigate the costs associated with adoption.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Encouraging employees to continue their education and develop new skills.
Gaming Perks
The allure of working for a gaming giant is often tied to the access you get to, well, the games! Activision Blizzard sweetens the deal by providing:
- Free Games: Employees typically receive two free games from the company’s portfolio each year.
- Alpha and Beta Testing Opportunities: The chance to play new releases before anyone else and provide valuable feedback.
- Discounts for Friends and Family: Extending the benefits to loved ones, fostering a sense of community.
Workplace Culture and Values
Beyond the tangible benefits, the article also touches upon the company’s commitment to a positive workplace culture. This includes:
- Employee Recommendations: A significant percentage of employees (78%) would recommend working at Activision Blizzard to a friend.
- Positive Business Outlook: A majority (69%) have a positive outlook for the company’s future.
- Employee Code of Conduct: Emphasizing integrity, responsibility, and creativity, with mechanisms for reporting concerns. The ASK List (*), mentioned in the article, sounds like a good place to start.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about working at Activision Blizzard, addressing benefits, company culture, and career prospects:
1. What is the average employee rating for Activision Blizzard?
Activision Blizzard has an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5, based on anonymous employee reviews.
2. How has the employee rating trended over time?
The rating has improved by 14% over the last 12 months, suggesting positive changes within the company.
3. Is Activision Blizzard a good company to work for, according to employees?
Yes, 78% of employees would recommend working at Activision Blizzard to a friend.
4. What percentage of employees have a positive outlook for the business?
69% of employees have a positive outlook for the business.
5. What do job seekers think of the interview experience at Activision Blizzard?
57% of job seekers rate their interview experience at Activision Blizzard as positive.
6. What are the core values of Activision Blizzard’s employee code of conduct?
Acting with Integrity, Responsibility, and Creativity are the core values.
7. How many free games do Activision employees get each year?
Employees receive two free games a year from the company’s portfolio.
8. Do Activision employees get to participate in game testing?
Yes, employees have the opportunity to sign up for Alpha and Beta testing of new releases.
9. Do friends and family of Activision employees get discounts?
Yes, friends and family can take advantage of discounts on games.
10. What is the average salary range at Activision Blizzard?
The average salary ranges from approximately $47,708 per year for a Quality Assurance role to $392,768 per year for a Vice President.
11. What is the highest paying job at Activision?
The highest paying role reported is Software Engineer, with a yearly total compensation of $100,022, including base salary, stock compensation, and bonuses.
12. Is it difficult to get a job at Blizzard?
Yes, competition is tight for both entry-level and senior roles.
13. What benefits do Blizzard employees get besides discounts and free games?
Employees receive comprehensive healthcare, savings and financial benefits, life & disability insurance, adoption assistance, tuition reimbursement, and pet insurance.
14. What are some potential drawbacks of working at Activision Blizzard?
Some cons include organizational issues, cheating problems in games, controversial monetization strategies, bugs and technical issues in live service games.
15. How long does it take to get hired at Blizzard?
The hiring process can take a few weeks to a couple of months, especially when applying through the website.
Navigating a Career in Gaming
Landing a job at a company like Activision Blizzard is a dream for many. But what does it take? Here are some crucial elements to consider:
- Skills and Experience: Possessing relevant skills in areas like game development, software engineering, art, design, or marketing is essential. A strong portfolio showcasing your work is often a must.
- Passion for Gaming: A genuine love for video games is crucial. Companies want employees who understand the industry and are passionate about creating engaging experiences.
- Education and Training: While a degree may not always be required (as the article points out, “No education is required for this post”), relevant education, certifications, or training can certainly boost your chances.
- Networking: Connecting with industry professionals, attending gaming events, and building relationships can open doors to opportunities. Organizations like the Games Learning Society provide invaluable resources and networking opportunities for those interested in the intersection of games and education. Check them out at GamesLearningSociety.org.
The Ever-Evolving Landscape of Game Development
The gaming industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, platforms, and trends emerging all the time. Staying ahead of the curve is crucial for anyone looking to build a successful career in this field. This means:
- Continuous Learning: Keeping up with the latest advancements in game engines (like Unity and Unreal Engine), programming languages, and design tools.
- Adaptability: Being able to adapt to new challenges and embrace new technologies.
- Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams and contributing to a collaborative environment.
Final Thoughts
While employee discounts and perks are certainly enticing, they are just one piece of the puzzle. A successful career at Activision Blizzard, or any gaming company, requires passion, dedication, and a willingness to learn and grow. By focusing on building the right skills, networking with industry professionals, and staying ahead of the curve, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job in the exciting world of video games.