Activision was founded by former Atari programmers who were dissatisfied with their treatment at the company. They began publishing games for the Atari 2600, including early hits like Dragster, Fishing Derby, and Pitfall!. The company successfully established the third-party development model that defines the modern video game industry.
1980s, the company navigated the industry crash by diversifying into home computer software, briefly rebranding as Mediagenic. Under new leadership in 1991, it restructured, reverted to its original name, and shifted focus toward PC and next-generation console gaming. This era birthed massive franchises, leading to a 2008 merger with Vivendi Games to form Activision Blizzard. Today, the brand operates as a subsidiary of Microsoft, following its acquisition in 2023.
Former names
Activision Publishing, Inc.