Activision Blizzard Buys Assets Of Major League Gaming To Build A New eSports Division
Video game company Activision Blizzard has acquired the assets of Major League Gaming (MLG) in an effort to build a new eSports Division, The Wall Street Journal reported Monday. The company reportedly acquired the professional eSports organization for $46 million in December last year.
Reports revealed that the acquisition covers "substantially all of the company's liabilities," as noted by Wired Monday.
"We're excited to be able to announce the deal," said Mike Sepso, senior vice president of Activision Blizzard's eSports division.
He added that the acquisition of MLG would allow them to carry out his and Activision Blizzard Chairman Steve Bornstein's vision.
"It gives us the capability in terms of people and technology to execute the vision that Steve and I started developing four months ago," he said.
Sepso also detailed that the company has bought most of the assets of MLG, including "all of the eSports-related technology platforms and people." He added that MLG will continue with its networks with other game developers and publishers.
"We're making a very concerted effort to continue working with servicing the third-party relationships that MLG had," Sepso said.
He went on, "Our mandate is as simple as, 'go build the ESPN of eSports,' which means we gotta work with everybody."
Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick also said Major League Gaming will strengthen their strategic position amid competition in the gaming industry.
"Our acquisition of Major League Gaming's business furthers our plans to create the ESPN of e-sports. MLG's ability to create premium content and its proven broadcast technology platform - including its live streaming capabilities - strengthens our strategic position in competitive gaming," Kotick said, as reported by Business Wire Monday.
"MLG has an incredibly strong and seasoned team and a thriving community. Together, we will create new ways to celebrate players and their unique skills, dedication and commitment to gaming. We are excited to add Sundance and the entire MLG eSports team to our competitive gaming initiatives."