Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick will remain at the company he took over and turned into the giant that it is today until January 1st, he confirmed in a new message shared today on the publisher's official website.

　　In the new message shared to celebrate the company acquisition by Microsoft, which was closed after almost two years since it was originally proposed, Bobby Kotick confirmed he will remain at the helm of the company he took over in 1991 together with Brian Kelly to facilitate the transition, as asked by Phil Spencer. Kotick was one of the most controversial figures in the gaming industry, allegedly long aware of the harassment going on at the company, so his leaving Activision Blizzard is set to be a historic moment for the industry.

　　I have long said that I am fully committed to helping with the transition. Phil has asked me to stay on as CEO of ABK, reporting to him, and we have agreed that I will do that through the end of 2023. We both look forward to working together on a smooth integration for our teams and players.

　　Brian and I couldn’t be more excited for the next chapter for ABK. We now join one of the most successful global companies, poised for unprecedented opportunities to connect the world through our games. 

　　As mentioned above, Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard was anything but smooth sailing. You can learn more about what happened in the past 21 months here.