HiTechEdge

Tag: Call of Duty

  • Microsoft Commits to Keeping Call of Duty on PlayStation — For Now

    Microsoft Commits to Keeping Call of Duty on PlayStation — For Now

    Following Microsoft’s blockbuster purchase of Activision Blizzard, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer is working to reassure PlayStation users.

    Microsoft announced a deal on Tuesday to purchase Activision Blizzard for some $68.7 billion, a move that will upend the entire computing gaming industry. Needless to day, many wondered if Microsoft would kill off non-Xbox and PC versions of popular titles, such as Call of Duty.

    According to Spencer, the company has no plans to do that…at least not yet.

    Had good calls this week with leaders at Sony. I confirmed our intent to honor all existing agreements upon acquisition of Activision Blizzard and our desire to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation. Sony is an important part of our industry, and we value our relationship.

    — Phil Spencer (XboxP3), January 20, 2022

    As some commenters immediately pointed out, Spencer’s choice of words certainly leaves doubt about the long-term future. Rather than a strong ‘we WILL keep Call of Duty on PlayStation,’ Spencer seemingly left Microsoft an out by only saying the company would honor existing agreements, and it was their desire to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation.

    Only time will tell how committed Microsoft is to other gaming platforms over the long haul.

  • Activision Releases Call of Duty Anti-Toxicity Progress Report

    Activision Releases Call of Duty Anti-Toxicity Progress Report

    Activision has released a report on its efforts to fight toxicity in its Call of Duty franchise, as online platforms grapple with the issue.

    Like virtually all online platforms, gaming has struggled with toxic, abusive individuals, who engage in hate speech, bullying and harassment. Many gaming companies are taking measures to stop such behavior, with mixed results.

    Activision is working to address the issues, and released a report detailing what measures it has already taken.

    Banned over 350,000 accounts for racist names or toxic behavior based on player-submitted reports and an extensive review of our player-name database

    Deployed new in-game filters to catch potentially offensive user-names, clan tags or profiles

    Implemented new technology to filter potentially offensive text chat

    Implemented filters across 11 languages

    The company says there’s still much work to be done, but it will continue to address the issues.

    “We know we have a long way to go to reach our goals,” the company continues. “This is just the start. Addressing this is an ongoing commitment that we will not waiver from. We look forward to making progress on this front and coming together with you to share in the fun and joy of playing together.”