Published Jan 25, 2022

Bobby Kotick's Call of Duty (w/Kirsten Grind)

The episode dives into the gaming industry's unique challenges, spotlighting Microsoft's acquisition of Activision as a strategic yet complex endeavor amidst regulatory scrutiny and cultural overhaul, while Kirsten Grind's investigation reveals the toxic culture and leadership failures at the heart of Activision Blizzard, focusing on CEO Bobby Kotick's controversial role.
Episode Highlights
Newcomer Podcast logo

Popular Clips

Episode Highlights

  • Media Scrutiny

    The media's scrutiny of gaming companies like Activision Blizzard has been notably less intense compared to other tech giants. highlights that until a major lawsuit in July, Activision faced minimal scrutiny, unlike Facebook, which has been under constant media examination for years 1. This discrepancy raises questions about why gaming, despite its massive cultural impact, hasn't been as closely covered by the media. Grind notes that media coverage often only intensifies after scandals emerge, suggesting a reactive rather than proactive approach 1.

       

    Industry Perception

    The perception of the gaming industry is often overshadowed by other entertainment sectors, such as Hollywood. suggests that gaming is seen as derivative of Hollywood culture, making it less appealing to mainstream media editors 2. This perception is compounded by the lack of prominent celebrity figures within the gaming industry, unlike tech giants like Facebook's , who has maintained his position despite numerous scandals 3. The generational gap in newsroom leadership also contributes to the underrepresentation of gaming in media narratives, as older editors may not fully grasp the industry's significance 2.

Related Episodes