Brussels, Europe Brief News – A large number of game publishers has decided that Activision Blizzard and Epic Games both stop the sales in the country due to its invasion of neighbouring country Ukraine.
Daniel Alegre, Activision Blizzard President said in a press release “ The company will be suspending new sales of and in our games in Russia while the conflict continues”.
That means Russians who have already bought the publisher’s title would not be able to make any purchases from this day onward. However, they will still be able to play games themselves.
The press release was not clear on whether the ban includes both digital and physical games. However, highlighted some of the contributions the company has made to help Ukraine.
The company also offered services and resources to workers affected by the war. The company is still facing a lot of criticism as it was for allegedly fostering a toxic workplace culture last year.
Activison joins a growing list of game companies
Alegre said, “We are doing everything possible to assist employees and their families who are being directly affected by this tragedy”.
He further added “If you or a colleague needs support, please do not hesitate to reach out to your manager or local HR leaders. I would also like to remind you that our Employee Assistance Program is available to those who need emotional support during its difficult time”.
Activision Blizzard joins a list of game companies that have already decided to shut down their business in Russia. The ban of new sales of its products and service in Russia and Belarus not only include Xbox games but also products associated with Windows and office.
On the other hand, EA games removed Russian teams from its FIFA and NHL games and later announced that sales will be stopped in Russia and Belarus.
Right after Activision Blizzard’s announcement, Epic Games said it is terminating commerce with Russia in its games.
Mykhailo Federov, Ukrainian Vice Prime Minister, requested Xbox and PlayStation to suspend Russian and Belarusian accounts and restrict them to compete in Esports events.
He later asked several developers, including Epic Games, Nintendo, Rockstar, Tencent to stop their games in Russia and Belarus.
