In a major shakeup in the gaming industry, Microsoft has announced the appointment of Johanna Faries as the new president of Blizzard Entertainment, a game publishing unit acquired in its $69 billion deal with Activision Blizzard last year. Faries, a former general manager of “Call of Duty,” brings with her a wealth of experience from her time at the National Football League (NFL) and her tenure at Activision Blizzard. Her appointment comes amidst recent layoffs at Microsoft, affecting 1,900 employees at Activision Blizzard and Xbox. In addition to Faries’ appointment, insider Matt Cox will assume the role of senior vice president and general manager of Call of Duty, signaling a new era for the popular gaming franchise.
Effective February 5, Faries is set to take on her new role, marking a significant moment for the company as it navigates through changes resulting from the acquisition. This announcement follows the departure of key figures Mike Ybarra and Allen Adham from Blizzard, further highlighting the ongoing transformations within the organization. Blizzard Entertainment, known for its iconic franchises such as Warcraft, Diablo, StarCraft, and Overwatch, has long been a powerhouse in the gaming industry. With a reputation for high-quality, immersive games, the company is renowned for its rich storytelling, complex game mechanics, and engaging multiplayer experiences.
In light of these developments, the gaming community eagerly anticipates the impact of Faries’ leadership on Blizzard Entertainment and the future of its beloved franchises. As the industry continues to evolve, the appointment of Faries and the internal reshuffling at Blizzard signal a new chapter for the company, potentially bringing fresh perspectives and strategies to its game development and publishing endeavors. With the gaming landscape constantly evolving, the appointment of Faries and the changes at Blizzard prompt reflections on the future direction of the company and its beloved gaming franchises.