Activision Blizzard CEO Slams Ex-EA Head

Former Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick recently slammed his EA counterpart, John Riccitiello, labeling him "the worst CEO in video games" during a podcast appearance on Grit. While acknowledging EA's superior business stability compared to Activision's, Kotick stated he'd have paid to keep Riccitiello from the position. This comment, made alongside former EA chief creative officer Bing Gordon, who alluded to Riccitiello's leadership contributing to his own departure, highlights a long-standing rivalry.

Riccitiello's tenure at EA, from 2007 to 2013, concluded amidst financial struggles and layoffs. His time at Unity Technologies (2014-2023) also faced controversy, including a significant backlash over proposed and subsequently rescinded installation fees, and a public apology for his disparaging remarks about developers who opposed microtransactions.

Kotick revealed that EA made multiple attempts to acquire Activision Blizzard, further emphasizing the competitive landscape between the two companies. He noted EA's stronger business model, yet maintained his criticism of Riccitiello's leadership.

Kotick's own leadership at Activision Blizzard, while financially successful prior to Microsoft's acquisition in 2023 for $68.7 billion, was also marked by controversy. Allegations of sexism, a toxic work environment, and inadequate responses to serious misconduct allegations led to employee walkouts and a lawsuit from the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (now the Civil Rights Department). While a settlement was reached in December 2023, the California Civil Rights Department's statement emphasized that no independent investigation substantiated claims of widespread sexual harassment or improper board actions regarding misconduct.

The interview also touched upon Kotick's negative assessment of Universal's 2016 Warcraft film adaptation, calling it one of the worst films he'd ever seen.