Activision Blizzard has stopped selling new games “inside and outside” in Russia, game company president Daniel Allegre said: Publicly shared letter to employees (via Eurogamer). This move keeps Russians out of new deals with the company, including both game sales and in-game purchases.
The press release does not specify whether the ban includes both digitals When Physical game. However, it highlights some of the contributions the company and its employees have made to Ukraine and also provides resources to war-affected workers.The Ukrainian crisis occurs at a sensitive time in the history of Activision Blizzard — the company Continue to face criticism After being sued Allegedly fostering a toxic workplace culture last year.
“We are doing everything we can to help our employees and their families who are directly affected by this tragedy,” Alegre said in a letter. “If you or a colleague needs help, feel free to contact your manager or local HR leader. And if you need emotional support during this difficult time, use our Employee Assistance Program. I will let you know what I can do. ”
Activision Blizzard has joined the growing list of gaming companies that have ceased operations in Russia. Microsoft, Announced plans to purchase Activision Blizzard In January, Moved to ban “new” sales of that product and service Russia and Belarus — A block that includes not only Xbox games, but also products related to Windows, Office, Microsoft 365, and more.
in the meantime, EA Games has removed the Russian team From that FIFA and NHL game, and later Block all sales to Russia and Belarus.. Cyberpunk 2077 Developer CD Projekt Red has taken similar steps Prohibit physical and digital sales to customers in both countries. Activision Blizzard does not specifically prevent sales to Russia’s economic partner Belarus. The Verge I contacted Activision Blizzard for comment, but didn’t get an immediate reply.
Epic has stopped commerce with Russia in the game in response to the invasion of Ukraine. It doesn’t block access for the same reason that other communication tools stay online. In a free world, all dialogue lines need to be left open.
— Epic Games Newsroom (@EpicNewsroom) March 5, 2022
Immediately after the announcement of Activision Blizzard, Epic Games said in-game that it had “suspended commerce with Russia” and would not ban access by Russian players.Not sure if Fortnite Developer bans on commerce apply to microtransactions, games, or both.
Earlier this week, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Mikairo Fedorov Asked for Xbox and PlayStation “Temporarily block” your Russian and Belarus accounts and stop participating in esports events.he Asked later Many developers who stop games in Russia, such as Epic Games, Nintendo, Rockstar, Tencent.
Updated ET at 5:53 pm on March 5: Updated to add that Epic Games also bans sales in Russia.
