Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Activision Blizzard and Epic Games have halted all sales in Russia. Although this action is a big blow to the gaming industry in general, it is especially severe for the video game industry. The companies have vowed to work out a solution in order to keep their revenue streams healthy. In a blog post, the companies explained why they’re suspending all sales in the country.
In a joint statement, the two companies have announced that they are suspending all new sales of their games and services in Russia. Although this does affect the Russian market, users will still be able to purchase in-game items in other countries.
Epic is stopping commerce with Russia in our games in response to its invasion of Ukraine. We’re not blocking access for the same reason other communication tools remain online: the free world should keep all lines of dialogue open.
— Epic Games Newsroom (@EpicNewsroom) March 5, 2022
This measure will allow consumers in other countries to continue to play the games they already own. But it will be more difficult for customers in Russia to get their favourite titles.
Both companies have said that they are stopping sales in Russia because of the current political climate in the country. Epic Games and Activision Blizzard have both decided to halt all sales in the country, but they aren’t cutting off access to their services.
This latest move comes just a few weeks after Ukraine’s deputy prime minister ordered the companies to cease all operations in Russia and Belarus.
With halting sales to Russia, Activision and Epic now join with companies like Microsoft, Electronic Arts and CD Projekt Red, Intel, AMD and Nvidia.
