Activision Blizzard Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Blizzard Entertainment has launched Hearthstone Mercenaries, a new free-to-play RPG game mode within its popular Hearthstone universe. Players can collect and upgrade over 50 heroes, engaging in procedurally generated battles. The mode focuses on team-building and strategic gameplay, offering both single-player and competitive options.

Players earn their first eight heroes through initial missions and can acquire additional content via gameplay or purchases starting at $2.99 USD.

Activision Blizzard (ATVI) will release its third quarter 2021 results after the market closes on November 2, 2021. The company will also host a conference call at 1:30 p.m. PT (4:30 p.m. ET) to discuss the results, which will be available via the investor relations website. Participants can pre-register for the call to bypass live operators. Activision Blizzard is recognized for its popular franchises, including Call of Duty and World of Warcraft, and emphasizes its commitment to corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Diablo II: Resurrected has been released, marking the definitive remaster of the classic action RPG, Diablo II, and its Lord of Destruction expansion. Now available on multiple platforms, including Windows PC and consoles, it supports 4K resolution and features remastered audio. The remaster retains the original game engine while enhancing graphics and accessibility options. Players can access their characters across platforms via Battle.net. The standalone version is priced at $39.99, while the Diablo Prime Evil Collection is available for $59.99.

King has announced the launch of the first-ever Candy Crush All Stars tournament in the U.S., hosted by Khloé Kardashian. This event invites players who have passed Level 25 in Candy Crush Saga to compete for the title of the nation's top player and a year's supply of gold bars. The tournament starts on September 23 and runs through October 7, featuring qualifying rounds and a final event in November. With over three billion downloads since its launch in 2012, Candy Crush Saga continues to thrive as a leading mobile game.

Activision Blizzard (NASDAQ: ATVI) has appointed Julie Hodges as Chief People Officer and Sandeep Dube as Chief Commercial Officer. Hodges joins from The Walt Disney Company, bringing over 30 years of HR experience, effective September 21. Dube, from Delta Airlines, starts September 27, overseeing global sales and strategy. CEO Bobby Kotick highlighted their roles in enhancing workplace inclusion and driving revenue growth. Hodges will lead HR initiatives, while Dube aims to expand commercial efforts and player engagement.

Activision announced the launch of Call of Duty: Vanguard, set for November 5, which promises an expansive World War II experience. This game includes a Campaign mode, Multiplayer with 20 maps at launch, and a Zombies mode featuring a franchise-first crossover. Later, players will enjoy a new Warzone experience with a new map and gameplay. Pre-orders for Vanguard are currently available, with the title scheduled for release on multiple platforms, including PlayStation and Xbox.

The Call of Duty Endowment has opened applications for its eighth "Seal of Distinction" Award, aimed at recognizing non-profits that effectively assist veterans in finding quality jobs. The award includes a $30,000 unrestricted grant and eligibility for future funding. Applications from U.S.-based non-profits are accepted until August 29, with criteria focusing on job placement metrics and organizational health. The Endowment has placed over 85,000 veterans in jobs since its inception, with a goal of 100,000 placements by 2024.