Activision Blizzard revealed its Q1 fiscal year 2023 financial results for the quarter ending March 31st, 2023. Net bookings are up 25 percent year-over-year, while first-quarter GAAP operating income rose by 70 percent, and segment operating income grew by 30 percent.
Despite the increase in segment operating income, it’s still “broadly stable” year-over-year. The publisher said it reflected “higher development and marketing costs” and included the investment behind Diablo 4’s launch in the second quarter. As for the action RPG, it noted “very high engagement” and “positive feedback” to the open beta in March. Pre-sales are currently strong going into the release.
Of course, it doesn’t end there, as post-launch content is also coming. “This ambitious title will serve as the launch for a compelling live service, with regular seasons and story-driven expansions planned to drive engagement for many years to come.” While details are still scant on Season 1 and what its Premium Battle Pass could offer, it’s confirmed that there will be “meaty” story content every quarter.
Diablo 4 launches on June 6th for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, and PC. It will have Server Slam from May 12th to 14th.