Activision Blizzard has reportedly canceled its in-development survival game and said goodbye to president Mike Ybarra and chief design officer Allen Adham.
Meanwhile, Microsoft – the tech giant acquired Activision Blizzard in October 2023 – announced that it would lay off 1,900 employees in its gaming division. The cancellation of the survival game Blizzard was developing (first reported by The Verge ) adds insult to injury.
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Mike Ybarra confirmed his departure on Twitter and sent a message to employees affected by the layoffs. He wrote: “I want to thank everyone affected today for their meaningful contributions to their teams, Blizzard, and player lives. This is an extremely difficult day, and my energy and support will be focused on To all the amazing people affected – this is in no way a reflection on your great work. If there’s anything I can help with, contacts, suggestions, etc. please PM me.
“To the Blizzard community: I also want everyone to know that today is my last day at Blizzard. It has been an incredible time leading Blizzard and being a part of a team that is shaping it for the future has been an absolute blessing. It’s an honor. After more than 20 years at Microsoft, and with the acquisition of Activision Blizzard, it’s ti me for me to become Blizzard’s biggest fan (again) from the outside.
“To the incredible team at Blizzard – thank you. Words can’t express how I feel about you all. You are amazing. Keep doing incredible things and always keeping Blizzard Blue and players in every possible situation at the forefront of decisions.
“To all those affected today, I am here for you and understand how challenging today’s news is. My heart is with each and every one of you.”
It’s especially strange that a survival game is suddenly banned. It’s been actively developed for several years and was nearly complete as of last year, according to Windows Central’s Jez Corden. The cancellation, coupled with a massive wave of layoffs, is a huge blow to a company that appeared to be on the rise after a long period of controversy.