Shock as Activision Blizzard axes new game, top brass exit

In a significant shakeup within Activision Blizzard, the company has cancelled a survival game that was previously in the works. While the specific title of the game has not been disclosed, it was known to be in development for several years and nearing completion. Alongside this cancellation, two key figures at Blizzard have departed: president Mike Ybarra and chief design officer Allen Adham. These events unfold against the backdrop of Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard in October 2023 and the recent news of substantial layoffs affecting 1,900 staff in their gaming division.

The gaming community is left to speculate about the future of Activision Blizzard's projects and personnel following these changes, especially since the survival genre remains a popular and competitive area for video game development. The upheaval within the company raises questions about strategic direction post-acquisition and how it may be aligning—or conflicting—with Microsoft's broader objectives.

The specific name of the cancelled survival game has not been revealed, only that it was a long-term project under development at Blizzard.

Background on Blizzard Entertainment: Blizzard is well-known for creating some of the most iconic titles in the gaming industry, including the "Warcraft," "Starcraft," and "Diablo" series. The company has a rich history in developing games that amass large, dedicated fanbases. This cancellation marks a rare step back for a company that traditionally has been known for its successful launch and long-term support of franchises.