Activision Blizzard Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Blizzard Entertainment has launched Diablo Immortal, the largest mobile entry in the Diablo franchise, now available for free on iOS and Android, with an open beta on Windows PC via Battle.net.

More than 35 million players pre-registered, and those logging in within 30 days can claim the Horadrim Cosmetic Set. The game features solo or multiplayer modes, cross-play, six classes, and ongoing content updates, setting a new standard in mobile gaming.

Blizzard Entertainment has announced the upcoming mobile strategy game, Warcraft Arclight Rumble, set to launch on Android and iOS later this year. Players can collect over 60 characters from the Warcraft universe and engage in a single-player campaign with over 70 missions, co-op play, and PvP modes.

Starting soon, a beta test will be available to select players in certain regions, providing a sneak peek into the game's features and gameplay.

Activision Blizzard (ATVI) stockholders have overwhelmingly approved Microsoft's (MSFT) acquisition proposal during a Special Meeting, with over 98% in favor. Microsoft announced its intent to acquire Activision Blizzard for $95.00 per share in an all-cash deal on January 18, 2022. The transaction is subject to standard closing conditions and regulatory review, expected to conclude within Microsoft's fiscal year ending June 30, 2023. CEO Bobby Kotick expressed confidence in the deal enhancing value for players and creating a more inclusive workplace.

Blizzard Entertainment announced that Diablo Immortal will launch on June 2, with over 30 million players pre-registered globally. The game, designed for mobile and PC, features cross-play and cross-progression. Players can choose from six classes and explore a new storyline, with content updates planned post-launch. Notably, the title is free-to-play, supported by in-game purchases. The Open Beta for PC will include all features and retain player progress. Blizzard aims to deliver an AAA experience that captures the franchise's legacy.

Activision Blizzard reported first quarter 2022 GAAP net revenues of $1.77 billion, down from $2.28 billion in 2021, with a GAAP EPS of $0.50 compared to $0.79 the previous year. Non-GAAP earnings per share decreased to $0.64 from $0.98. The company generated $642 million in operating cash flow, a decline from $844 million in Q1 2021. Monthly Active Users reached 372 million. Microsoft’s acquisition for $95.00 per share is pending regulatory approval and is expected to close by June 30, 2023.

Activision Blizzard (NASDAQ: ATVI) announced the election of Lulu Cheng Meservey to its Board of Directors, effective April 16. She will serve on the Workplace Responsibility Committee and stand for re-election at the upcoming 2022 Annual Meeting. Kerry Carr has also been nominated for Board election, contingent upon her election, she will join the Audit Committee. Notably, Hendrik J. Hartong III and Casey Wasserman will not seek re-election. This Board refreshment reflects the company’s commitment to enhancing diversity and skill sets among its directors.

Activision Blizzard announced the upcoming release of World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King Classic, set to launch later this year. This re-creation of the 2008 expansion will be available at no additional cost for players with an active subscription. Key features include new zones, the introduction of the Death Knight class, a new profession called Inscription, and the addition of achievements. Players can create Death Knight characters pre-launch and utilize a level-70 boost option. Full details will follow closer to the release date.

Blizzard Entertainment has announced the upcoming expansion for World of Warcraft, titled Dragonflight, which transports players to the Dragon Isles, the homeland of dragons in Azeroth. This expansion introduces the dracthyr Evoker, the first-ever race/class combo, allowing players to choose between a damage dealer or healer role. Dragonflight features new areas to explore, including four zones and a new level cap of 70, along with revamped talent and profession systems, enhancing customization and gameplay dynamics.

The latest expansion for Hearthstone, Voyage to the Sunken City, has launched, introducing 135 new cards and a thematic focus on the Naga race from World of Warcraft. The expansion marks the beginning of the Year of the Hydra and is set in Zin-Azshari, offering players diverse underwater gameplay mechanics.

Alongside this, the Core Set has been updated, with 72 new cards and a total of 250 cards now available. Noteworthy returns include iconic characters from League of Explorers. The set rotation shifts previous expansions to Wild format, enhancing gameplay strategy.