Controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2021
Activision Blizzard sued over alleged character copying
Lawsuit filed
A writer and photographer alleges that Activision Blizzard and developer Infinity Ward intentionally modeled the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare character Mara on his character Cade Janus. The supplied article reports a lawsuit and allegations, not a court determination.
Source excerpt
Haugen alleges that Activision Blizzard and Infinity Ward required the model and makeup artist to sign non-disclosure agreements to “conceal their planned infringement.”
A writer and photographer is now alleging that the company intentionally modeled Mara after his own character, Cade Janus, from a short story called November Renaissance.
2010
Dismissal of West and Zampella
Activision dismissed Infinity Ward co-founders Jason West and Vince Zampella after an investigation, citing alleged contractual breaches and insubordination. The two executives disputed the company's position and soon established Respawn Entertainment. Numerous Infinity Ward employees also departed, creating a major leadership and staffing crisis.
2010
Legal conflict over control, royalties, and employee bonuses
West and Zampella sued Activision over alleged unpaid royalty payments, while Activision countersued and later brought claims involving Electronic Arts. A separate Infinity Ward employee group pursued compensation related to Modern Warfare 2 bonuses. The disputes were ultimately resolved through settlements.