Activision Blizzard, the company behind “Call of Duty,” is expanding its operations in Europe. Following the approval of Microsoft’s acquisition of the company, Activision Blizzard announced that its game developer Infinity Ward would join its Digital Legends mobile games unit in Barcelona.
This decision comes after the UK blocked the Microsoft takeover, causing Activision Blizzard to reconsider its growth plans in the country. However, the company expressed its commitment to expanding its investment and workforce in the European Union after receiving approval for the deal.
Both Activision Blizzard and Microsoft are facing challenges from antitrust regulators in their quest to finalize the merger, which is the largest ever in the gaming industry. Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella will testify in a San Francisco court to advocate for the merger.
Meanwhile, Microsoft is actively appealing the British veto with the support of Activision. The gaming company, known for titles like “Candy Crush Saga” and “World of Warcraft,” expressed disappointment with the UK’s decision and is now focusing on expanding its studio presence in the EU.
In a blog post, Activision Blizzard highlighted Europe’s significant role in the gaming industry, particularly in mobile gaming, and expressed confidence in the continent’s potential for growth, thanks to skilled developers, ambition, and government support.