Bobby Kotick Criticizes Call of Duty’s Sales, Predicts 60% Drop from Last Year

Former Activision CEO Bobby Kotick has revealed alarming sales figures for the latest installment of the Call of Duty franchise. He disclosed that Black Ops 7 is experiencing a staggering 60% drop in sales compared to last year’s title, raising concerns among industry observers.

Bobby Kotick on Call of Duty Sales Decline

This revelation emerged during a legal dispute involving investors and Swedish pension fund AP-7. Investors claim Kotick hurriedly sold Activision to Microsoft for $69 billion, citing a share price of $95, which they allege was undervalued. They also suggest his decision was motivated by a need to shield himself from ongoing scandals within the company.

Details on Sales Figures

• Call of Duty sales down 60% compared to last year.
• Console hardware sales are at an historic low in the U.S.
• The gaming market faces intense competition from titles like Battlefield.

Kotick defends his sale decision by pointing to the historically low console sales and the significant decline of the Call of Duty franchise. In a statement, he said, “Given that console sales are at an all-time low and Call of Duty sales are off over 60% from the prior year, plaintiffs should be expressing extreme gratitude for the foresight Activision leadership demonstrated.”

Market Context and Future Prospects

The sales decline is emblematic of broader trends in the gaming industry. November’s console sales numbers marked the worst performance in three decades, even with the impending release of the Switch 2 in early 2025.

Comments made by Kotick also targeted the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which sought to block the Activision acquisition. He argued that the notable drop in Call of Duty sales undermines claims of the game’s market dominance. “Call of Duty is on track to perform over 60% below last year due to intense competition,” he asserted.

Implications for Microsoft and the Gaming Industry

The upcoming financial reports from Microsoft are expected to highlight the repercussions of this sales decline. As the company shifts focus toward AI, it may struggle to mitigate the impact of Call of Duty’s faltering performance. Additionally, the franchise will face competition from anticipated blockbuster titles, including GTA 6, set to release this Christmas.