Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Equity Award [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Restricted Stock
Restricted Stock [Member]
Performance shares
Performance Shares [Member]
Employee Stock Option And Restricted Stock
Employee Stock Option And Restricted Stock [Member]
Employee Stock Option And Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock rights activity
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Restricted stock rights at the beginning of the period (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Restricted stock rights, granted (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Restricted stock rights, vested (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Restricted stock rights, forfeited (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period
Restricted stock rights at the ending of the period (in shares)
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value information
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value, granted (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value, vested (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value, forfeited (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Restricted stock rights, weighted-average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) ending balance
Performance-vesting restricted stock rights for which the accounting grant date has not been set (shares)
Employee Service Share-Based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not Yet Recognized, Share-Based Awards Other Than Options, Granted Without Grant Date
Performance-based restricted stock units at maximum potential shares for which an accounting grant date and fair value has not been determined.
Performance-vesting restricted stock rights granted without an accounting grant date (shares)
Employee Service Share-Based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not Yet Recognized, Share-Based Awards Other Than Options, Granted But Not Accounted For
Performance-based restricted stock units at maximum potential shares granted during the year for which an accounting grant date and fair value has not been determined.
Share-based compensation, unrecognized compensation
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Share-based compensation, unrecognized compensation weighted-average period of recognition
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Total fair value of shares vested
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value
Income tax benefit from stock option exercises and restricted stock rights
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Exercise of Stock Options
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Description of Business
Nature of Operations [Text Block]
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Events
Subsequent Event [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Dividends per common share (in dollars per share)
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
Cash dividend payment
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock
Dividend equivalent payment
Payments Of Dividends Restricted Stock Units
Dividend equivalent payments to holders of restricted stock units.
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Adjustments For ASU 2016-09
Adjustments for New Accounting Principle, Early Adoption [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Axis]
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Axis]
New Accounting Principles, Early Adoption [Domain]
New Accounting Principles, Early Adoption [Domain]
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Net income
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Basic earnings per common share (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted earnings per common share (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Assets
Assets [Abstract]
Current assets:
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $279 and $261, at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Inventories, net
Inventory, Net
Software development
Software Development, Current
The current portion of unamortized costs incurred for development of computer software, which is to be sold, leased or otherwise marketed, after establishing technological feasibility, through to the general release of the software products.
Other current assets
Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Software development
Software Development, Noncurrent
The noncurrent portion of unamortized costs incurred for development of computer software, which is to be sold, leased or otherwise marketed, after establishing technological feasibility, through to the general release of the software products.
Property and equipment, net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Deferred income taxes, net
Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net
Other assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Intangible assets, net
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
Goodwill
Goodwill
Total assets
Assets
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Current liabilities:
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Deferred revenues
Deferred Revenue, Current
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
Accrued Liabilities, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Long-term debt, net
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities
Deferred income taxes, net
Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net
Other liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total liabilities
Liabilities
Commitments and contingencies (Note 19)
Commitments and Contingencies
Shareholders’ equity:
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Common stock, $0.000001 par value, 2,400,000,000 shares authorized, 1,186,181,666 and 1,174,163,069 shares issued at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock
Less: Treasury stock, at cost, 428,676,471 shares at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016
Treasury Stock, Value
Retained earnings
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Total shareholders’ equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Liabilities and Equity
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Revolver
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
French Tax Authority
Ministry of the Economy, Finance and Industry, France [Member]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Domain]
Litigation Case [Domain]
PacchiaCase
PacchiaCase [Member]
The name of the plaintiff or case.
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Settlement payments
Payments From Settlement Fund
The value (monetary amount) to be paid to specific parties from the total settlement amount.
Total assessment, including penalties and interest, not recorded
Income Tax Examination, Total Assessment, Penalties And Interest
Amount of tax assessment, including interest and penalties, from tax authority.
Amount of letters of credit that can be issued under the Revolver
Availability for Letters of Credit
The total amount of letters of credit that can be issued, subject to the availability of the revolving credit facility.
Reportable Segments
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments
Number of Reportable Segments
Accounts receivable, allowances
Accounts Receivable Allowance
A provision for trade and other receivables due to an Entity within one year (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) that are expected to be uncollectible, an estimate for product returns, and an estimate for price protection.
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common stock, shares authorized
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock, shares issued
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Treasury stock, shares
Treasury Stock, Shares
Software Development Costs and Intellectual Property Licenses
Summarizes the components of software development and intellectual property licenses
Schedule of Software Development Costs and Intellectual Property Licenses [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of software development costs and intellectual property licenses as of the balance sheet date.
Amortization of software development costs and intellectual property licenses
Amortization of Software Development Costs and Intellectual Property Licenses [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of amortization of software development costs and intellectual property licenses.
Share-Based Compensation
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Class of Treasury Stock [Table]
Class of Treasury Stock [Table]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
Share Repurchase Program 2017
Share Repurchase Program 2017 [Member]
The 2017 Share Repurchase Program authorized by our Board of Directors.
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Stock repurchase program, dollar amount authorized
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
Cost of common stock repurchased under the stock repurchase program
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method
Repurchase of shares of common stock (in shares)
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Line of Credit
Line of Credit [Member]
Unsecured Debt
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Credit Facility [Domain]
2016 TLA
2016 Tranche A Term Loan [Member]
Fifth Amendment Tranche A Term Loan [Member]
2017 TLA
2017 Tranche A Term Loan [Member]
Sixth Amendment Tranche A Term Loan [Member]
2022, 2027, and 2047 Notes
NewNotes [Member]
Unsecured Senior Notes due in 2022, 2027, and 2047.
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Domain]
Variable Rate [Domain]
Federal Funds Rate
Federal Funds Effective Swap Rate [Member]
LIBOR
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Base Rate
Base Rate [Member]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Minimum
Minimum [Member]
Maximum
Maximum [Member]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Forecast
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount
Long-term Debt, Gross
Maximum borrowing capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Repayment of long-term debt
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Amount drawn
Long-term Line of Credit
Base rate margin
Debt Instrument, Base Rate Margin
Base Rate Margin for debt instrument.
Variable rate interest floor
Debt Instrument, Variable Rate, Interest Floor
Variable Rate Interest Floor.
Applicable margin (as a percent)
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate
Variable rate at end of period
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End
Proceeds from new note issuances
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Write-off of unamortized discount and deferred financing costs
Write Off Of Unamortized Discount (Premium) And Deferred Debt Issuance Costs
Write Off Of Unamortized Discount (Premium) And Deferred Debt Issuance Costs as a result of extinguishment.
Debt covenant, Consolidated Total Net Debt ratio, contingent maximum
Debt Instrument, Covenant, Consolidated Total Net Debt Ratio, Contingent Maximum
Subsequent maximum end of range for Consolidated Total Net Debt Ratio financial covenant for our long term debt.
Authorized debt repayments
Extinguishment of Debt, Authorized Amount
The amount of authorized repayments of our existing outstanding debt.
Maturities of Debt
Maturities of Long-term Debt [Abstract]
2018
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months
2019
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two
2020
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three
2021
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four
2022
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five
Thereafter
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five
Gross Carrying Amount
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Cash paid for interest
Interest Paid
Non-cash purchase price consideration
Other Significant Noncash Transaction, Value of Consideration Given
Net revenues
Revenues
Cost of revenues
Cost of Revenue
Operating income
Operating Income (Loss)
Net income
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Finished goods
Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves
Purchased parts and components
Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves
Inventories, net
Inventory reserves
Inventory Valuation Reserves
Software Development and Intellectual Property Licenses
Software Development Costs and Intellectual Property Licenses [Text block]
Includes disclosure of software development costs and intellectual property license costs. This element may be used as a single block of text to encapsulate the entire disclosure including data and tables.
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Unrealized gains (losses) on forward contracts designated as hedges, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Total other comprehensive income (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill
Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block]
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Participating common stock weighted-average shares, unvested restricted stock rights
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Participating Nonvested Shares with Non-forfeitable Dividend Rights
Shares not included in computation of diluted EPS due to unmet performance measures
Contingently Issuable Shares Performance Criteria
Contingently issuable shares that were not included in diluted earnings per share (EPS) as the contingencies were not resolved. These shares may be issued in the future upon the satisfaction of specified performance measures.
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table]
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table]
Antidilutive Securities [Axis]
Antidilutive Securities [Axis]
Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain]
Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain]
Options
Equity Option [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Schedule of computation of earnings per share
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes [Table]
Income Taxes [Table]
Summarization of various income tax disclosures.
Counterparty Name [Axis]
Counterparty Name [Axis]
Counterparty Name [Domain]
Counterparty Name [Domain]
New VH
New VH [Member]
Represents the wholly-owned subsidiary of Vivendi that became the direct owner of the shares purchased as part of the Purchase Transaction.
Expected
Expected [Member]
The expected scenario member.
Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis]
Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain]
State
State [Member]
Gross tax credit carryforwards for state purposes.
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
King Acquisition
King Digital Entertainment [Member]
King Digital Entertainment [Member]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Line items for various income tax disclosures.
Provisional amount recorded for effects of TCJA
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Amount of reasonable estimate for income tax expense (benefit) from effect of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 for which accounting for tax effect is incomplete.
Current tax expense related to Transition Tax
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Transition Tax for Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Provisional amount of current period income tax expense attributable to the Transition Tax due to the application of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.
Deferred tax expense related to remeasurement of deferred taxes
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change in Tax Rate, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Amount of reasonable estimate for income tax expense (benefit) for remeasurement of deferred tax from change in tax rate pursuant to Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 for which accounting for tax effect is incomplete.
NOL carryforward
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
NOL carryforward indemnification amount
NOL Indemnification Amount
The maximum indemnification amount obtained, related to the potential nonexistence or the disallowance of claimed utilization of NOL carryforwards.
Cumulative operating loss utilized - New VH NOL
Net Operating Loss Utilized Cumulative
This element represents the cumulative amount of the NOL utilized, as a result of NOLs assumed associated with the repurchase of stock.
Indemnification asset recorded in other assets
Indemnification Asset Recorded In Other Assets
Tax benefit related to the indemnification amount associated with the repurchase of stock recorded in Other Assets.
Indemnification asset recorded in treasury stock
Indemnification Asset Recorded In Treasury Stock
Tax benefit related to the indemnification amount associated with the repurchase of stock recorded as a reduction to the consideration paid for the shares repurchased in Treasury Stock.
Net operating loss utilized - New VH NOL
Net Operating Loss Utilized
This element represents the amount of the NOL utilized in the current period, as a result of NOLs assumed associated with the repurchase of stock.
Reserve established for NOL tax attribute received from Purchase Transaction
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Valuation Allowance
Tax credit carryforward
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount
NOL carryforwards, foreign
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign
Uncertain tax position assumed
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Acquisition
Unrecognized tax benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Unrecognized tax benefits that would affect effective tax rate
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate
Accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued
Interest expense related to uncertain tax positions
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Expense
Document and Entity Information
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Document Period End Date
Document Type
Amendment Flag
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Filer Category
Entity Public Float
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Credit Facilities
Unsecured Notes
2021 Notes
Unsecured 2021 Notes [Member]
2.3% Unsecured Notes.
2022 Notes
Unsecured 2022 Notes [Member]
2.6% Unsecured Notes.
2023 Notes
Unsecured 2023 Notes [Member]
6.125% Unsecured Notes.
2026 Notes
Unsecured 2026 Notes [Member]
3.4% Unsecured Notes.
2027 Notes
Unsecured 2027 Notes [Member]
3.4% Unsecured Notes.
2047 Notes
Unsecured 2047 Notes [Member]
4.5% Unsecured Notes.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized Discount and Deferred Financing Costs
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net
Net Carrying Amount
Long-term Debt
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Impairment of intangible assets
Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)
Summary of debt
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of maturities of debt
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]
Other Assets and Liabilities
Other Assets and Liabilities
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accrued payroll related costs
Employee-related Liabilities, Current
Income tax payable
Accrued Income Taxes, Noncurrent
Stock Option Plan
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Stock option activity, shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Stock options at the beginning of the period (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number
Stock options, granted (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures
Stock options, exercised (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
Stock options, forfeited (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period
Stock options, expired (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period
Stock options at the ending of the period (in shares)
Stock options, vested and expected to vest (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number
Stock options, exercisable (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Number
Weighted-average exercise price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Stock options, weighted-average strike price at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Stock options, weighted-average exercise price, granted (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Stock options, weighted-average exercise price, exercised (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Stock options, weighted-average exercise price, forfeited (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Stock options, weighted-average exercise price, expired (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Stock options, weighted-average strike price at the end of the period (in dollars per share)
Stock options, weighted-average exercise price, vested and expected to vest (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Stock options, weighted-average exercise price, exercisable (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Stock options, weighted-average remaining contractual term
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Stock options, weighted-average remaining contractual term, vested and expected to vest
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Stock options, weighted-average remaining contractual term, exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Stock options, aggregate intrinsic value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value
Stock options, aggregate intrinsic value, vested and expected to vest
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Stock options, aggregate intrinsic value, exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Stock options, intrinsic value of options exercised
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value
Total grant date fair value of options vested
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value
Difference between income taxes computed at the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate and the income tax expense (benefit)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Federal income tax provision at statutory rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount
Federal income tax provision at statutory rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
State taxes, net of federal benefit
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount
State taxes, net of federal benefit
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent
Research and development credits
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Research, Amount
Research and development credits
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Research, Percent
Foreign rate differential
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount
Foreign rate differential
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent
Change in tax reserves
Income Tax Reconciliation Change in Tax Reserve
This element represents the portion of the difference between the total income tax expense (benefit) as reported in the Income Statement and the expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to the change in tax reserves.
Change in tax reserves
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Change in Tax Reserve
This element represents the change attributable to effective income tax rate due to change in reserve.
Net operating loss tax attribute assumed from the Purchase Transaction
Net Operating Loss Tax Attribute Received From Purchase Transaction
This element represents the tax-effected portion of a one-time federal net operating loss allocation to the Company from the Purchase Transaction between a majority shareholder and the Company.
Net operating loss tax attribute assumed from the Purchase Transaction
Effective Income Tax Rate NOL Purchase Transaction
This element represents the portion of the difference between the effective income tax rate and domestic federal statutory income tax rate attributable to the changes in the NOL tax attribute received from the Purchase Transaction between a majority shareholder and the Company.
Excess tax benefits related to share-based payments
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Share-based Compensation, Excess Tax Benefit, Amount
Amount of excess tax benefits recorded as a component of income tax expense.
Excess tax benefits related to share-based payments
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Share-based Compensation, Excess Tax Benefit, Percent
This element represents the change attributable to effective income tax rate due to excess tax benefits recorded as a reduction of income tax expense.
U.S. Tax Reform Act
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Amount
This element represents the amount of reported income tax expense (benefit) in excess of (less than) expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying domestic federal statutory income tax rate to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations, attributable to increase (decrease) in income tax rate and transition tax on accumulated earnings of controlled foreign corporation deemed repatriated pursuant to Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.
U.S. Tax Reform Act
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Percent
Percentage of reported income tax expense (benefit) in excess of (less than) expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying domestic federal statutory income tax rate to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations, attributable to increase (decrease) in income tax rate and transition tax on accumulated earnings of controlled foreign corporation deemed repatriated pursuant to Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.
Other
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Amount
Other
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent
Income tax expense
Income tax expense
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
King
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
General and administrative
General and Administrative Expense [Member]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Long-term debt, net
Long-Term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Member]
Long-Term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Member]
Stock Option
Equity Award
Equity Award [Member]
Equity Award [Member]
Deferred Cash Award
Deferred Cash Awards [Member]
Deferred Cash Awards [Member]
Nonrecurring Adjustment [Axis]
Nonrecurring Adjustment [Axis]
Nonrecurring Adjustment [Domain]
Nonrecurring Adjustment [Domain]
Acquisition-related Costs
Acquisition-related Costs [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Aggregate purchase price
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred
Cash paid to acquire business
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross
Cash paid to acquire business from debt financing
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Cash From New Debt
The cash outflow to acquire business from debt financing proceeds
Acquisition costs
Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs
Debt discount and issuance costs
Debt Discount And Issuance Costs
Amount of debt issuance costs (for example, but not limited to, legal, accounting, broker, and regulatory fees) and debt discount incurred.
Equity options and awards issued in acquisition (in shares)
Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares
Fair value of King’s existing vested and unvested stock options and awards assumed
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Payments For Fair Value Of Options And Awards Assumed
Purchase consideration based on the fair value of King’s existing vested and unvested stock options and awards that related to pre-combination service and were assumed and replaced with Activision Blizzard equity or deferred cash awards.
Future expense for converted King unvested options and awards
Weighted average service period of acquired options and awards
Goodwill expected to be deductible for tax purposes
Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount
Computation of Basic/Diluted Earnings Per Common Share
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block]
Net revenues
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual
Net loss
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual
Non-recurring acquisition related costs
Net revenues
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue
Net income
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss)
Basic earnings per common share (in dollars per share)
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted earnings per common share (in dollars per share)
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Schedule of future minimum commitments under non-cancelable operating lease agreements and other contractual arrangements
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block]
Schedule of quarterly financial information
Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Common Stock
Common Stock [Member]
Treasury Stock
Treasury Stock [Member]
Additional Paid-In Capital
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Retained Earnings
Retained Earnings [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Balance (in shares)
Shares, Issued
Components of comprehensive income:
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Issuance of common stock pursuant to employee stock options
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Gross
Issuance of common stock pursuant to employee stock options (in shares)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Gross
Issuance of common stock pursuant to restricted stock units
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Gross
Issuance of common stock pursuant to restricted stock units (in shares)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross
Restricted stock surrendered for employees’ tax liability
Adjustments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation
Restricted stock surrendered for employees' tax liability (in shares)
Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation
Tax benefit associated with employee stock awards
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation
Share-based compensation expense related to employee stock options and restricted stock units
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Share-based compensation assumed in acquisition
Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital, Share-Based Compensation, Acquired In Period
Increase in additional paid in capital (APIC) resulting from share-based compensation assumed in acquisition.
Dividends ($0.30, $0.26, and $0.23 per common share at December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015, respectively)
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash
Indemnity on tax attributes assumed in connection with the Purchase Transaction
Adjustments To Treasury Shares Related To Repurchases Of Stock
Reduction to the value of treasury shares purchased, as a result of tax indemnity benefits associated with the repurchase of stock.
Shareholder settlement in connection with the Purchase Transaction
Adjustments To Shareholders Equity Related To Settlement
Reduction to shareholders' equity, as a result of the shareholders settlement, associated with the repurchase of stock.
Ending balance
Balance (in shares)
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash
Cash
Foreign government treasury bills
Foreign Government Treasury Bills
Foreign government treasury bills at carrying value. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify as cash equivalents by definition.
Money market funds
Money Market Funds, at Carrying Value
Cash and cash equivalents
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for- sale securities
Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member]
Unrealized gain (loss) on forward contracts
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
OCI, before Reclassifications, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings
Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Schedule of stock option valuation assumptions and weighted-average grant date fair value
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of stock option activity
Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of restricted stock units activity
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of share-based compensation expense
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation Allocation of Recognized Period Costs Income Statement [Table Text Block]
Disclosure that sets forth the allocation of share-based compensation costs to a given line item in the income statement for the period. This may include the reporting line for the costs and expenses.
Operating Segments and Geographic Region
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Income before income tax expense:
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Domestic
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic
Foreign
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign
Income before income tax expense
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest
Income tax expense (benefit):
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Current:
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Federal
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
State
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)
Foreign
Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total current
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred:
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Federal
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
State
Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Foreign
Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total deferred
Deferred Income Tax Expense Benefit Net Of Valuation Reserve
The component of income tax expense for the period representing the net change in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations after adjusting for valuation allowances.
Benefit credited to income tax provision:
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital [Abstract]
Excess tax benefits from share-based payments
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Trade names
Trade Names [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill impairment
Goodwill, Impairment Loss
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and equipment, net
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table]
Cost of revenues—product sales: Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses
CostofRevenuesProductSalesSoftwareRoyaltiesAmortizationandIntellectualPropertyLicenses [Member]
Share-based compensation expense recorded in cost of revenues, product sales: Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses.
Cost of revenues—subscription, licensing, and other revenues: Game Operations and Distribution Costs
Cost of Revenues, Subscription, Licensing, and Other, Game Operations and Distribution Costs [Member]
Share-based compensation expense recorded in cost of revenues, subscription, licensing, and other: Game operations and Distribution costs.
Cost of revenues—subscription, licensing, and other revenues: Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses
Cost of Revenues, Subscription, Licensing, and Other, Software Royalties, Amortization, and Intellectual Property Licenses [Member]
Share-based compensation expense recorded in cost of revenues, subscription, licensing, and other: Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses.
Product development
Product Development [Member]
Share-based compensation expense recorded in Product Development.
Sales and marketing
Selling and Marketing Expense [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense before income taxes
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Share-based compensation expense, income tax benefit
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense
Total share-based compensation expense, net of income tax benefit
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Net of Tax
Income Taxes
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized tax benefits balance at January 1
Gross increase for tax positions of prior-years
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Gross decrease for tax positions of prior-years
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Gross increase for tax positions of current year
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions
Settlement with taxing authorities
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities
Lapse of statute of limitations
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations
Unrecognized tax benefits balance at December 31
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value, assets measured on a recurring and/or non-recurring basis
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Revenue Recognition [Abstract]
Estimated service period over which revenues are recognized (less than)
Estimated Service Period
This element represents the service period over which revenues are recognized for games for which we have an online hosted arrangement, or an implied obligation to display virtual goods, or the online functionality is a more-than-inconsequential deliverable.
Marketing and Advertising Expense [Abstract]
Advertising expense included in sales and marketing expense
Advertising Expense
Basis of Consolidation and Presentation
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrestricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Investment Securities
Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash in Escrow
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Financial Instruments
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Concentration of Credit Risk
Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Software Development Costs and Intellectual Property Licenses
Software Development Costs and Intellectual Property Licenses [Policy Text Block]
This element represents the entity's accounting policies for software development and intellectual property licenses.
Inventories
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Allowances for Returns, Price Protection, Doubtful Accounts, and Inventory Obsolescence
Allowances for Returns, Price Protection, Doubtful Accounts and Inventory Obsolescence [Policy Text Block]
This element represents the entity's accounting policies for allowances for returns, price protection, doubtful accounts, and inventory obsolescence.
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Indefinite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Amortizable Intangible Assets and Other Long-lived Assets
Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Shipping and Handling
Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cost of Revenues
Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Advertising Expenses
Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Taxes
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Foreign Currency Translation
Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block]
Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Share-Based Payments
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]
Loss Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Adjustments For ASU 2014-09
Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member]
Adjustments For ASU 2016-15
AdjustmentsForASU201615 [Member]
Potential impact on the statement of cash flows for cash provided by (used in) investing activities if early adoption of new accounting principle were adopted as of the date of the financial statements.
Pro Forma
Pro Forma [Member]
Sale price recognized as revenue upon delivery (percent)
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Change, Percentage
Approximate percentage of sales price for certain products expected to be recognized upfront as revenues due to new accounting pronouncement.
Cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings at date of adoption
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption
Movement in restricted cash related to acquisition
Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash
Numerator:
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract]
Consolidated net income
Less: Distributed earnings to unvested share-based awards that participate in earnings
Distributed Earnings
Less: Undistributed earnings allocated to unvested share-based awards that participate in earnings
Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Basic
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share—income available to common shareholders
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic
Denominator:
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract]
Denominator for basic earnings per common share - weighted-average common shares outstanding (in shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Effect of dilutive stock options and awards under the treasury stock method
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements
Denominator for diluted earnings per common share—weighted-average common shares outstanding plus dilutive common shares under the treasury stock method
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Schedule of operating segments and reconciliations of total net revenues and total segment operating income to consolidated net revenues from external customers and consolidated income before income tax expense
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Schedule of net revenues by distribution channels
Schedule of Net Revenues by Distribution Channels [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Net Revenues by Distribution Channels [Table Text Block]
Schedule of net revenues from external customers by geographic region
Revenue from External Customers by Geographic Areas [Table Text Block]
Schedule of net revenues by platform
Schedule of Net Revenues from External Customers by Platform [Table Text Block]
The disclosure of net revenues from external customers by platform.
Long-lived assets by geographic region
Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block]
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]
Definite-lived intangible assets, future amortization expense disclosure
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2018
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
2021
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Thereafter
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five
Net carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Intangible Assets, Net
Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Provision for inventories
Inventory Write-down
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction
Amortization of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses
Amortization of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses
Amortization of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses. This excludes deferral and amortization of share-based compensation expense.
Premium payment for early redemption of note
Payments Of Debt Extinguishment Costs, Operating Activities Cash Flow Statement
Other noncash adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by (used in) operating activities for incremental, external costs directly pertaining to an early extinguishment of debt, including legal costs and prepayment penalties, and excluding interest and repayment of debt principal.
Amortization of debt discount, financing costs, and non-cash write-off due to extinguishment of debts
Amortization Of Financing Costs, Discounts, And Write-Off Of Deferred Costs
Amount of noncash expense included in interest expense to allocate debt discount and premium, and the costs to issue debt and obtain financing over the related debt instruments. This also includes noncash write-off of discount and deferred costs associated with debt extinguishment. Alternate captions include noncash interest expense.
Share-based compensation expense
Share-based Compensation
Other
Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect from business acquisitions:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Assets [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, net
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable
Inventories
Increase (Decrease) in Inventories
Software development and intellectual property licenses
Increase (Decrease) in Software Development and Intellectual Property Licenses
The increase (decrease) in software development and intellectual property licenses.
Other assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets
Deferred revenues
Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue
Accounts payable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale investments
Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities
Purchases of available-for-sale investments
Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities
Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired (see Note 20)
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired
Release (deposit) of cash in escrow
Capital expenditures
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Other investing activities
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Proceeds from issuance of common stock to employees
Proceeds from Stock Plans
Tax payment related to net share settlements on restricted stock units
Payments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation
Dividends paid
Proceeds from debt issuances, net of discounts
Repayment of long-term debt
Premium payment for early redemption of note
Payment for Debt Extinguishment or Debt Prepayment Cost
Proceeds received from shareholder settlement (see Note 19)
Other financing activities
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Internally-developed franchises
Internally Developed Franchises [Member]
The cost of development of franchises by the entity.
Customer base
Customer-Related Intangible Assets [Member]
Developed software
DevelopedSoftware [Member]
Developed Software acquired.
Acquired trade names
Cash and cash equivalents
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents
Accounts receivable
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables
Other current assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other
Property and equipment
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Deferred income tax assets, net
Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Assets
Other assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets
Accounts payable
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable
Accrued expense and other liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other
Other liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other
Deferred income tax liabilities, net
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities
Intangible assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles
Total purchase price
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Intangible assets, estimated useful life
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Estimated useful life
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Nonrecurring Basis
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Nonrecurring
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Impairment charges - nonrecurring
Asset Impairment Charges
Amount outstanding
Interest rate
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Redemption percentage of aggregate principal amount plus a make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price Plus Make-Whole Premium And Accrued And Unpaid Interest, Percentage
The amount the entity would be required to repurchase its unsecured notes at, expressed as a percentage of the principal, plus a make whole premium that would need to be paid in addition to the principal, for if the notes were to be redeemed earlier than the stated periods per the notes indenture.
Maximum percentage of outstanding Notes that can be redeemed with net cash proceeds from one or more qualified equity offerings
Maximum Percentage of Outstanding Notes That Can be Redeemed
The maximum amount of unsecured debt that can be redeemed at the Company's option, expressed as a percentage of the aggregate outstanding principal amount of unsecured debt, with the net cash proceeds from one or more qualified equity offerings, if such equity offerings occur.
Redemption percentage of aggregate principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price Plus Accrued And Unpaid Interest, Percentage
The amount the entity would be required to repurchase its unsecured notes at, expressed as a percentage of the principal, upon certain criteria.
Percentage of principal repayable to option holders upon certain criteria
Percentage of Principal Repayable to Option Holders Upon Certain Criteria
The amount the entity would be required to repurchase its unsecured notes at, expressed as a percentage of the principal, upon certain criteria.
Interest Payable
Interest Payable
Debt discount and issuance costs
Interest expense
Interest Expense, Debt, Excluding Amortization
Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs
Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts
Capital Transactions
Treasury Stock [Text Block]
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net revenues
Revenues [Abstract]
Product sales
Sales Revenue, Goods, Net
Subscription, licensing, and other revenues
Subscription, Licensing and Other Revenues
Revenues associated with the sale of subscriptions via packaged software and prepaid subscription cards, royalties from third-party licensee sales of our products, sales of add-on content, micro-transactions, and other ancillary revenues.
Total net revenues
Costs and expenses
Costs and Expenses [Abstract]
Cost of revenues - product sales: Product costs
Cost of Revenues, Product Sales, Product Costs
Product costs which includes the manufacturing cost of goods produced and sold during the reporting period. This generally includes product costs, manufacturing royalties, net of volume discounts, personnel-related costs, warehousing and distribution costs. We generally recognize volume discounts when they are earned (typically in connection with the achievement of unit-based milestones).
Cost of revenues - product sales: Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses
Cost of Revenues, Product Sales, SW Royalties, Amortization, and IP Licenses
Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses which includes the amortization of capitalized software costs and royalties attributable to product sales revenues. These are costs capitalized on the balance sheet until the respective games are released, at which time the capitalized costs are amortized. Also included is amortization of intangible assets recognized in purchase accounting attributable to product sales revenues.
Cost of revenues - subscription, licensing, and other revenues: Game operations and distribution costs
Cost of Revenues, Subscription, Licensing, and Other, Game Operations and Distribution Costs
Game operations and distribution costs which includes costs to operate our games, such as customer service, internet bandwidth and server costs, platform provider fee, and payment provider fees.
Cost of revenues - subscription, licensing, and other revenues: Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses
Cost of Revenues, Subscription, Licensing, and Other, SW Royalties, Amortization, and IP Licenses
Software royalties, amortization, and intellectual property licenses costs which includes the amortization of capitalized software costs and royalties attributable to subscription, licensing and other revenues. These are costs capitalized on the balance sheet until the respective games are released, at which time the capitalized costs are amortized. Also included is amortization of intangible assets recognized in purchase accounting attributable to subscription, licensing and other revenues.
Product development
Research and Development Expense
Sales and marketing
Selling and Marketing Expense
General and administrative
General and Administrative Expense
Total costs and expenses
Costs and Expenses
Operating income
Interest and other expense (income), net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Loss on extinguishment of debt
Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt
Income tax expense
Earnings per common share
Basic (in dollars per share)
Diluted (in dollars per share)
Weighted-average number of shares outstanding
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]
Basic (in shares)
Diluted (in shares)
Recurring
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair value measurements using significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Designated as Hedges
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Investment Type [Axis]
Investment Type [Axis]
Investments [Domain]
Investments [Domain]
Money market funds
Money Market Funds [Member]
Foreign government treasury bills
Foreign Government Treasury Bills [Member]
This element represents foreign government treasury bills measured at fair value on a recurring basis.
U.S. treasuries and government agency securities
US Government Corporations and Agencies Securities [Member]
Foreign currency forward contracts designated as hedges
Foreign Exchange Forward [Member]
Auction rate securities
Auction Rate Securities [Member]
Total assets at fair value
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, gain loss included in earnings
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings [Abstract]
Total liabilities at fair value
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring
Schedule of inventories
Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]
Components of the net deferred tax assets (liabilities)
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Deferred tax assets:
Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract]
Allowance for sales returns and price protection
Deferred Tax Assets, Allowances for Sales Returns and Price Protection
This element represents the tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax deductions arising from allowances for sales returns and price protection, and which can only be realized if sufficient tax-basis income is generated in future periods to enable the deduction to be taken.
Inventory reserve
Deferred Tax Assets, Inventory
Accrued expenses
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities
Deferred revenue
Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Income
Tax credit carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards
Net operating loss carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards
Share-based compensation
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost
Acquired intangibles
Deferred Tax Assets, Goodwill and Intangible Assets
State taxes
Deferred Tax Assets, State Taxes
Other
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Valuation allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance
Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance
Deferred tax liabilities:
Components of Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract]
Acquired intangibles
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets
Prepaid royalties
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Prepaid Expenses
Capitalized software development expenses
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Deferred Expense, Capitalized Software
Other
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other
Deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net
Net deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Net
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]
Debt
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Derivative, by Nature [Axis]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Cash Flow Hedging
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount of foreign currency derivatives
Derivative, Notional Amount
Maximum length of time over which our foreign currency forward contracts mature
Derivative, Remaining Maturity
Fair value of foreign currency forward contracts
Derivative, Fair Value, Net
Net realized but unrecognized losses with remaining maturities of 12 months or less
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months
Net realized but unrecognized losses recorded within accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Deferred Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months
The estimated net amount of existing gains or losses on cash flow hedges that settled and were deferred at the reporting date that are expected to be reclassified to earnings, along with the associated hedged revenues, within the next 12 months.
Ineffective portion relating to these hedges
Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net
Schedule of supplemental cash flow information
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Buildings
Building [Member]
Computer equipment
Computer Equipment [Member]
Office furniture and other equipment.
Office Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life
Components of cash and cash equivalents
Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block]
Inventories, Net
Inventory Disclosure [Text Block]
Vesting period of award
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period
Expiration period of options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period
Common stock available for grant under share-based awards (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Aggregate common stock reserved for issuance under share-based awards (in shares)
Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance
Property and Equipment, Net
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table]
Category of Item Purchased [Axis]
Category of Item Purchased [Axis]
Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain]
Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain]
Total Contractual Obligations
Contractual Obligations Non Cancelable Operating Lease [Member]
This element represents the contractual arrangements with third parties for non-cancelable operating lease agreements, for development of products, and for the rights to intellectual property.
Facility and Equipment Leases
Facility and Equipment Leases [Member]
This element represents the contractual agreements with third parties for non-cancelable operating lease agreements for facility and equipment.
Developer and Intellectual Properties
Developer and Intellectual Properties [Member]
This element represents the contractual arrangements with third parties for the development of products and for the rights to intellectual property.
Marketing
Marketing Commitments [Member]
This element represents the contractual obligation to provide marketing support for the related game(s) which is to be developed or in which the intellectual property will be utilized.
Long-term debt obligations
Long Term Debt Obligations [Member]
This element represents the contractual obligation for principal payments inclusive of required interest payable.
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
2018
Contractual Obligation, Due in Next Fiscal Year
2019
Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year
2020
Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year
2021
Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year
2022
Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year
Thereafter
Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year
Total
Contractual Obligation
Amount expected to pay for Transition Tax during 2018
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017 Incomplete Accounting Transition Tax For Accumulated Foreign Earnings Provisional Liability Current
Amount of reasonable estimate for tax liability from transition tax on accumulated earnings of controlled foreign corporation deemed repatriated pursuant to Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 for which accounting for tax effect is incomplete, classified as current.
Unrecognized tax benefits, net of tax credits - Current
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Net, Current
Amount of current net unrecognized tax benefits included in Accrued expenses and other liabilities.
Unrecognized tax benefits, net of tax credits, Non-current
UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsNetNonCurrent
Amount of non-current net unrecognized tax benefits included in Other liabilities.
Amount expected to pay for Transition Tax
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Transition Tax for Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Provisional Liability
Amount of reasonable estimate for tax liability from transition tax on accumulated earnings of controlled foreign corporation deemed repatriated pursuant to Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 for which accounting for tax effect is incomplete.
Schedule of domestic and foreign income (loss) and income tax expense (benefit)
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of income taxes at the U.S. federal statutory rate to income tax expense (benefit)
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of the components of the net deferred tax assets (liabilities)
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits for the period
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]
Other Assets and Liabilities
Other Assets and Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block]
The entire disclosure for other assets and other liabilities at the end of the reporting period.
Fair value of notes
Long-term Debt, Fair Value
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Assumptions [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Assumptions [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Assumptions [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Assumptions [Line Items]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Assumptions [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Schedule of Share-based Compensation Assumptions [Table]
Expected life (in years)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term
Volatility
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Volatility Rate
Risk free interest rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate
Dividend yield
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate
Weighted-average fair value at the grant date (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Expected stock volatility rate, low end of range
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Minimum
Expected stock volatility rate, high end of range
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Maximum
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block]
Schedule of Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Pro Forma Financial Information
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]
Acquisitions
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Allowances for sales returns and price protection and other allowances
Allowance for Sales Returns Price Protection and Other Allowance [Member]
A valuation allowance for the amount of products sold that the entity expects to be returned by the purchaser, price protection and any other allowances.
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation and qualifying accounts, reconciliation
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation and qualifying accounts, balance at the beginning of period
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance
Valuation and qualifying accounts, additions
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions for Charges to Cost and Expense
Valuation and qualifying accounts, deductions
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions
Valuation and qualifying accounts, balance at the end of period
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by operating segments
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
Activision
Activision [Member]
The Activision reportable segment of the entity.
Blizzard
Blizzard [Member]
The Blizzard reportable segment of the entity.
Other segments
Corporate and Other [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Changes in carrying amount of goodwill
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, balance at beginning of period
Additions through acquisition
Goodwill, Acquired During Period
Other
Goodwill, Other Increase (Decrease)
Goodwill, balance at end of period
Goodwill segment transfer
Goodwill, Transfers
Accumulated impairment losses
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss
Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table]
Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table]
Other
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount, definite-lived intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Accumulated amortization, definite-lived intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Schedule of Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table]
Schedule of Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table]
Activision trademark
Trademarks [Member]
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net carrying amount, indefinite-lived intangible assets
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)
Total intangible assets, net
Amortization expense disclosure
Amortization of Deferred Charges [Abstract]
Amortization expense
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Software development and intellectual property licenses:
Software Development and Intellectual Property Licenses [Abstract]
Internally-developed software costs
Internally Developed Software Costs
Capitalization of certain internally developed software costs incurred after technological feasibility of the software is established.
Payments made to third-party software developers
Software Costs Payments, Made to Third Party Developers
Capitalized software costs resulting from payments made to third-party software developers.
Total software development costs
Software Development Costs
Unamortized costs incurred for development of computer software, which is to be sold, leased or otherwise marketed, after establishing technological feasibility through to the general release of the software products.
Amortization:
Amortization Write-offs and Impairments [Abstract]
Amortization of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses
Capitalized Software Development Costs and Intellectual Property Licenses Amortization
The amortization of capitalized software development costs and intellectual property licenses.
Land
Land [Member]
Leasehold improvements
Leaseholds and Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Office furniture and other equipment
Furniture and Fixtures [Member]
Cost of property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Less accumulated depreciation
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property and equipment, net
Depreciation expense
Depreciation
Rental expense
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Operating segments, revenues from external customers
Operating Segments, Revenues From External Customers [Member]
Operating Segments, Revenues from external customers [Member]
Intersegment net revenues
Intersegment Revenues [Member]
Intersegment Revenues [Member]
Reportable segments
Operating Segments [Member]
Reconciliation items
Segment Reconciling Items [Member]
Elimination of intersegment revenues
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Geographic Concentration Risk
Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Revenues
Sales Revenue, Net [Member]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Domain]
Geographical [Domain]
Americas
Americas [Member]
EMEA
EMEA [Member]
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific [Member]
US
UNITED STATES
UK
UNITED KINGDOM
Products and Services [Axis]
Products and Services [Axis]
Products and Services [Domain]
Products and Services [Domain]
Digital online channels
Digital Online Channels [Member]
Digital Online Channels [Member]
Retail channels
Retail Channels [Member]
Retail Channels [Member]
Other
Other Distribution Channels [Member]
Other Distribution Channels [Member]
Console
Console [Member]
Represents the total of consoles which includes the Sony PS4 and PS3, the Microsoft Xbox One and Xbox 360, and the Nintendo Wii U and Wii.
PC
PC [Member]
The personal computer platform.
Mobile and ancillary
Mobile And Ancillary Platforms [Member]
Mobile And Ancillary Platforms [Member]
Other
Other [Member]
Revenues from handheld and mobile devices, as well as non-platform specific game related revenues such as standalone sales of toys and accessories products from the Skylanders franchise and other physical merchandise and accessories.
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating income and income before income tax expense
Net effect from changes in the deferral of net revenues and related cost of revenues, Net revenues
Deferral of Net Revenues and Related Cost of Sales Revenue Impact
Impact of the net effect from the deferral of net revenues in reconciling total segment net revenues to consolidated net revenues.
Net effect from changes in the deferral of net revenues and related cost of sales, Operating income and income before income tax expense
Deferral of Net Revenues and Related Cost of Sales Operating Income Impact
Impact of the net effect from the deferral of net revenues and related cost of revenues in reconciling total segment operating income (loss) to consolidated operating income (loss).
Share-based compensation expense
Amortization of intangible assets
Fees and other expenses related to the King Acquisition
Fees And Other Expenses Related To Acquisitions
Impact of fees and other expenses related to acquisitions, associated integration costs, and related debt financings.
Restructuring costs
Restructuring Charges
Other non-cash charges
Other General Expense
Discrete tax-related items
DiscreteTaxRelatedItems
The impact of significant discrete tax-related items.
Percentage of concentration risk
Concentration Risk, Percentage
Long-lived assets
Cash in Escrow
Restricted Cash and Investments [Abstract]
Deposit for acquisition
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent
Financial Instruments
Derivative Instrument Detail [Abstract]
Maximum contractual terms of foreign exchange forward contracts
Foreign Exchange Forward Contract Maximum Contractual Term
This element represents the maximum contractual term for foreign exchange forward contracts.
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Amortization period for capitalized software development costs
Capitalized Software Development Costs Amortization Period
This element represents the amortization period of capitalized software development costs.
Concentration Risk [Table]
Concentration Risk [Table]
Customer [Axis]
Customer [Axis]
Customer [Domain]
Customer [Domain]
Apple
Apple [Member]
Represents Apple as a single external customer that accounts for 10 percent or more of the entity's revenues.
Sony
Sony [Member]
Represents Sony as a single external customer that accounts for 10 percent or more of the entity's revenues.
Google
Google [Member]
Represents Google as a single external customer that account for 10 percent or more of the entity's revenues.
Microsoft
Microsoft [Member]
Represents Microsoft as a single external customer that accounts for 10 percent or more of the entity's revenues.
Wal-Mart
Wal Mart [Member]
Represents Wal-Mart as a single external customer that accounts for 10 percent or more of the entity's revenues.
Consolidated net revenues
Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member]
Consolidated gross receivables
Accounts Receivable [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of finite-lived intangible assets
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of indefinite-lived intangible assets
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of finite lived intangible assets, future amortization expense
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]