Activision Blizzard acquires King

Activision Blizzard (Activision) will acquire Candy-Crush hit game makers King Digital Entertainment (KING) for $5.9 billion.

Following the acquisition, Activision says it will become the new global leader in mobile gaming, create one of the largest entertainment networks with over half a billion monthly active users in 196 countries and own a portfolio that includes 10 of the most iconic interactive entertainment brands.

Under the terms of the deal Activision subsidiary ABS Partners C.V. will acquire all outstanding shares of KING for $18.00 per share in cash, 20 percent more than KINGS October 30, 2015 closing share price.

The deal is expected to be finalised by Spring 2016 following approval by King’s shareholders and the Irish High Court, clearances by the relevant antitrust authorities and other customary closing conditions.

KING will continue to operate independently, led by chief executive officer Riccardo Zacconi, chief creative officer Sebastian Knutsson, and chief operating officer Stephane Kurgan.

The two companies combined portfolio makes for an impressive offer comprising Candy Crush Saga, Candy Crush Soda Saga, Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, Entertainment’s Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft, StarCraft, Diablo,Guitar Hero, Skylanders and Destiny along with the rest of its library of over 1000 game titles.

Bobby Kotick, chief executive officer of Activision Blizzard said: “Riccardo, Sebastian, and Stephane are some of the best minds in the business, and we have long-admired King for consistently creating incredibly fun, deeply engaging free-to-play games that capture the imaginations of players across ages and demographics.

“Activision Blizzard will provide King with experience, support and investment to continue to build on their tremendous legacy and reach new potential. We share an unwavering commitment to attracting and developing the best talent in the business, and we are excited about what we will be able to accomplish together.”

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