Major sanctions are coming from game companies for the ongoing conflicts between Russia and Ukraine. We previously learned that EA Games and CD Projekt Red will stop selling in Russia. A similar move came from Epic Games and Activision Blizzard.
Activision Blizzard and Epic Games announced that they will cancel selling all games on their platforms to players in Russia. This step means that players in Russia are prevented from making transactions such as games or in-app purchases over the platforms.
Epic and Activision Blizzard stopped selling games for Russia
Boycotts of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are also resonating in the game industry. In line with the latest decisions announced, Activision Blizzard and Epic Games joined the list of companies that canceled their Russia operations.
In a written statement from Activision Blizzard Chairman Daniel Alegre, the company did not specify whether the ban covers both digital and physical games. But Activision Blizzard said the company and its employees are more focused on contributing to helping Ukraine. In his statement, Alegre said:
“We are doing everything we can to help the employees and their families directly affected by this tragedy. If you or a coworker needs support, don’t hesitate to contact your manager or local human resources leader. I would also like to remind you that we also have an Employee Support Program for those who need emotional support during this difficult time.”
Microsoft, which announced its plans to acquire Activision Blizzard in January, also took action to ban the sale of its products and services. Not only Xbox games in Russia and Belarus; has also discontinued sales of the suite, which includes products associated with Windows, Office, Microsoft 365, and more. However, Activision Blizzard has not suspended sales to Russia’s economic partner Belarus for the time being.
In the statement from Epic Games about stopping the sale in Russia, it was noted that instead of blocking access, only the sale of the game would be stopped.
Also previously EA Games removed Russian teams from FIFA and NHL games and stopped all sales in Russia/Belarus. Cyberpunk 2077 developer CD Projekt Red has taken similar steps to prevent physical and digital sales to customers in both countries.
Don’t forget to share your views on the sales decision for Russia by Epic and Activision Blizzard on the SDN Forum or in the comments!
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