Microsoft is set to buy Activision Blizzard in an absolutely mega deal that could change the gaming landscape forever.
As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, the tech giant plans to purchase the video game publisher for the not-so-little amount of $68.7 billion.
If the Activision Blizzard deal goes through successfully, it will bring together Micrsoft’s Xbox game platform and Xbox Game Studios (which also owns other game publishers such as Bethesda Softworks and 343 Industries) with Activision’s acclaimed titles such as Call of Duty, Warcraft, and the Tony Hawk franchise.
It’s reminiscent of The Walt Disney Company’s recent sweep of the film and TV industry, with the company acquiring 21st Century Fox.
The potential Activision Blizzard deal would also make Microsoft the world’s third-largest company by revenue, behind only Tencent and Sony. Microsoft are aiming to finalise the deal next year.
“We need more innovation and investment in content creation, and fewer constraints on distribution,” Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said on Tuesday. “Our vision is for a river of entertainment where content and commerce flow freely.”
Mobile gaming is set to be a significant part of their future partnership, with Microsoft eager to make the most of Activision owning titles such as the popular Candy Crush. Activision’s games would also be incorporated into its Game Pass subscription service, a huge bonus for fans. And with a title like Call of Duty releasing new versions yearly, it will be a money spinner.
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“We will bring as many Activision Blizzard games as we can … including both new games and games from Activision Blizzard’s incredible catalog,” Nadella added.
What do you think of the Microsoft and Activision Blizzard deal? Is it a good or bad move? This is a developing story so stay tuned for future updates.
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Check out this ranking of every Call of Duty game:
