Decoding the Corporate Identity: What is the Legal Name of Activision?
The legal name of Activision is Activision Blizzard, Inc. This is the official, registered name under which the company operates, conducts business, and is recognized legally. While the “Activision” name remains prominent and recognizable, especially in relation to its game publishing arm, it’s important to understand that the entire entity is formally known as Activision Blizzard, Inc. This structure reflects the 2008 merger between Activision and Blizzard Entertainment.
Understanding Activision Blizzard, Inc.
Activision Blizzard, Inc. represents a significant force in the global video game industry. The company’s structure incorporates distinct operational segments, each contributing to its overall success. Understanding this organizational layout is crucial for anyone delving into the business side of gaming.
The Activision Segment
The Activision segment primarily focuses on the development and publishing of video games, particularly those under the Call of Duty franchise. This segment is responsible for some of the most commercially successful video game titles in history, making it a major revenue driver for Activision Blizzard, Inc.
The Blizzard Segment
The Blizzard segment is renowned for creating iconic franchises like World of Warcraft, Diablo, and Overwatch. These games have cultivated dedicated player bases and generate substantial revenue through game sales, subscriptions, and in-game purchases. Blizzard Entertainment’s games are frequently praised for their high production values and enduring appeal.
The King Segment
The King segment specializes in mobile gaming, particularly the wildly popular Candy Crush franchise. King’s focus on accessible and engaging mobile games broadens Activision Blizzard’s reach to a wider audience. Its success in the mobile market makes it a critical component of the company’s overall strategy.
Microsoft’s Acquisition: A New Chapter
The landscape shifted dramatically with Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard finalized on October 13, 2023. This multi-billion dollar deal marks a significant moment in the gaming industry. Activision Blizzard is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Microsoft, operating within Microsoft Gaming alongside Xbox Game Studios and ZeniMax Media. The acquisition consolidates Microsoft’s position in the gaming market and brings a wealth of beloved franchises under its umbrella.
FAQs: Unraveling Activision’s Corporate Structure
To provide a deeper understanding of Activision Blizzard’s identity and its recent developments, here are some frequently asked questions:
1. What is the official name of Activision?
The official name is Activision Blizzard, Inc.
2. What is the legal name for Activision Blizzard?
The legal name is Activision Blizzard, Inc.
3. Is Activision public or private?
Activision Blizzard was previously a public company, traded on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol ATVI. However, following its acquisition by Microsoft, it is now a private subsidiary.
4. What was the name of the Call of Duty stock?
Call of Duty is a video game and does not have its own stock. Investors could purchase shares of Activision Blizzard (NASDAQ: ATVI) when it was publicly traded.
5. How much was Activision worth before the acquisition?
As of October 2023, Activision Blizzard had a market cap of $74.28 billion.
6. Does Microsoft officially own Activision?
Yes, Microsoft officially owns Activision Blizzard. The acquisition was finalized on October 13, 2023.
7. Does Microsoft own all of Activision?
Yes, Activision Blizzard is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Microsoft.
8. Does Activision have a parent company?
Yes, Activision Publishing, Inc., the publisher of Call of Duty and other games, is a subsidiary of its parent company, Activision Blizzard, Inc. Before the acquisition, Activision Blizzard, Inc., was an independent company. It is now a subsidiary of Microsoft.
9. Who owned Activision in 2023 before the Microsoft acquisition?
Before October 13, 2023, Activision Blizzard, Inc. was an independent publicly traded company. After that date, Microsoft owns Activision Blizzard.
10. Is Microsoft allowed to buy Activision Blizzard?
Yes, the acquisition was approved by regulatory bodies and finalized.
11. Can you buy a new Activision name?
You can change your Activision ID/Display Name using a Username change token, which is provided periodically. This allows for customization within the Activision gaming ecosystem, not the purchase of the corporate name itself.
12. Why did Microsoft buy Activision?
Microsoft acquired Activision Blizzard to expand its presence in the gaming industry, gain access to valuable intellectual property, and bring more creative and innovative games to players. Microsoft can now offer their users great gaming experiences across multiple devices.
13. Can I buy Activision stock now?
No, you cannot buy Activision stock on the open market anymore. The company is no longer publicly traded because it is now a subsidiary of Microsoft.
14. What is Activision’s biggest money maker?
The Activision segment, particularly the Call of Duty franchise, is Activision Blizzard’s biggest revenue and profit generator.
15. Does Microsoft own the rights to Call of Duty?
Yes, through its acquisition of Activision Blizzard, Microsoft now owns the rights to Call of Duty, along with other major franchises like World of Warcraft, Diablo, and Overwatch.
The Future of Activision Blizzard Under Microsoft
The acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft signals a potential shift in the gaming landscape. The resources and infrastructure of Microsoft could fuel further innovation and expansion of Activision Blizzard’s franchises. This acquisition is expected to bring changes to the organization of Activision Blizzard. The Games Learning Society will be keenly observing how this transition unfolds and impacts the industry.
This acquisition represents a bold move by Microsoft to strengthen its gaming division and solidify its position as a leader in the entertainment industry. The integration of Activision Blizzard’s vast library of games and talented teams into Microsoft’s ecosystem promises an exciting future for gamers worldwide. To learn more about gaming and its impact, explore GamesLearningSociety.org.