What Franchise Owns Call of Duty?
The Call of Duty franchise is one of the most popular and successful franchises in the gaming industry. With over 300 million copies sold worldwide, it has become a household name, and its impact on gaming culture is undeniable. In this article, we’ll delve into the history and ownership of the Call of Duty franchise, exploring the various companies and individuals who have played a significant role in shaping the franchise over the years.
Introduction
Call of Duty, a first-person shooter series, was first released in 2003 by Infinity Ward, a subsidiary of Activision. The first game, titled Call of Duty, was a moderately successful game that received praise for its engaging storyline, realistic graphics, and competitive multiplayer mode. Since then, the franchise has grown rapidly, with numerous sequels, spin-offs, and expansions being released over the years.
Activision Blizzard: The Current Owners
In 2009, Activision Blizzard acquired Infinity Ward, the development studio behind the Call of Duty franchise, for $100 million. This acquisition marked a significant turning point in the history of the franchise, as Activision Blizzard became the sole owner of the rights to the Call of Duty IP. Under Activision Blizzard’s ownership, the franchise has continued to thrive, with new games being released regularly and a growing esport scene.
Past Ownership
Before Activision Blizzard’s acquisition, there were several other companies involved with the Call of Duty franchise. Gray Matter Interactive, a studio founded in 1996, worked on the first Call of Duty game, and the company’s parent, Infogrames Entertainment (IESA), developed the game’s sequel. In 2002, Infinity Ward joined the franchise, developing games such as Call of Duty 2 and Call of Duty 3.
Key Players
Several individuals have played a crucial role in shaping the Call of Duty franchise. Bobby Kotick, former CEO of Activision, was instrumental in the growth and success of the franchise during his tenure. Neil Young, the co-creator of Call of Duty, was a key player in the development of early games in the series, including Call of Duty: Modern Warfare.
Games and Revenue
The Call of Duty franchise has released 22 mainline games since its inception, including World at War, Modern Warfare, and Black Ops. The series has sold over 300 million copies worldwide, with each subsequent game generating more revenue than the previous one. According to a report by ScreenRant, the series has generated over $15 billion in revenue, making it one of the most successful franchises in gaming history.
Esport Scene
The Call of Duty franchise has a thriving esport scene, with professional teams competing in competitive tournaments and leagues. In 2013, Activision Blizzard created the Call of Duty World League, a competitive league that has grown into one of the most prominent esports leagues in the world.
Conclusion
The Call of Duty franchise, owned by Activision Blizzard, has become a legendary franchise in the gaming industry. With over 22 mainline games released since its inception, the franchise has generated billions of dollars in revenue and has been a driving force in popularizing the first-person shooter genre. The franchise has a rich history, marked by significant events and contributions from key players, who have shaped the franchise into what it is today.