Activision loses major developer in split with 'Destiny' maker Bungie

Bungie

"Destiny" and "Destiny 2" were part of a several-game, 10-year contract between Activision and Bungie. "Destiny 2" is pictured above.

• Video game publishing powerhouse Activision and blockbuster game development studio Bungie are said to be splitting up.
• The two companies agreed to a 10-year, multi-game deal tied to the "Destiny" franchise.
• That deal appears to have been dissolved.

Video game publisher Activision and blockbuster video game development studio Bungie are parting ways, Bungie announced in a blog post on Thursday.

Activision is most well-known for its "Call of Duty" franchise, but has become just as well-known in recent years for its work on the "Destiny" franchise - published by Activision, and developed by Bungie.

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The two companies signed a 10-year contract in 2010, specifically aimed at turning "Destiny" into a major video game franchise. It's coming to an end one year early, and the terms appear to be amicable.

"We have enjoyed a successful eight-year run and would like to thank Activision for their partnership on 'Destiny,'" the blog post says. "Looking ahead, we're excited to announce plans for Activision to transfer publishing rights for 'Destiny' to Bungie. With our remarkable 'Destiny' community, we are ready to publish on our own, while Activision will increase their focus on owned IP projects."=

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