Activision: The publisher faces an embarrassing problem despite the announcement of the takeover by Microsoft

news business Activision: The publisher faces an embarrassing problem despite the announcement of the takeover by Microsoft

Lack of attractiveness for the publisher

The summer soap opera did not play in the small skylight this year, but because of the numerous cases of harassment on the part of the American publisher Activision-Blizzard-King. The situation has garnered attention in the video game world and far beyond since the state of California took an interest in the publisher’s case and even filed a complaint against the toxic culture that reigns within the company. The allegations against the company have also multiplied further tarnished the image of the publisher and its president, Bobby Kotick, in the months that followed.

Regarding the latter, while he was even thinking about it, his place in society seemed more and more at risk leave his place vacant if he could not solve the company’s problems. Still present today, its future remains uncertain following the announcement of its acquisition by Microsoft. All of this has obviously damaged the aura of the publisher, who, as he recently admitted, now lacks attractiveness.

An aggravated lack of popularity

At a meeting to prepare the Company’s annual report, Activision Blizzard King spoke about one of his biggest concerns: namely his great difficulty in attracting new employees and new talent, but also in retaining them.. This problematic situation for the publisher was accentuated by various factors in recent months Examples: The company cites, for example, labor shortages, increasing competition in recruiting talent and increasing turnover, or the percentage of employees who are leaving the company.

We are having increasing difficulties recruiting and retaining qualified personnel. For example, in 2021 we observed a significantly higher percentage of turnover in our human resources department.

In addition, the recent corporate disputes over workplace and labor issues, and the media attention they have generated, are expected to adversely affect our ability to attract and retain employees, in addition to resulting in work stoppages.

While aware of its current difficulties, the company knows full well that the cases affecting it and the bad press it is suffering will make the situation worse.. The publisher is currently being questioned about its handling of sexual assault, discrimination and harassment, of which some employees have allegedly fallen victim.

Once the acquisition is validated, Microsoft will have a lot to do to restore the publisher’s image. Whatever the case, the Redmond firm is already busy with some media reports and the reaction of some investors who have sprung on the scene recently.