The UK CMA dealt a major blow to Microsoft's proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard as it blocked the deal earlier this week. The antitrust regulator reveals that it is not the first time the tech giant tried to gobble up another game company and failed.
In its final report, the CMA revealed that Microsoft "attempted" to purchase an unnamed mobile developer - a studio that is not involved in the Activision-Blizzard merger. This new development is surprising given that Microsoft has been vocal about wanting to acquire Candy Crush developer King, a subsidiary of Activision Blizzard.
"We note Microsoft's submission that Activision has significant strength in mobile gaming, and consider that the presence of Activision's games on any mobile gaming store would enhance its competitiveness," the report said.
However, we also consider that this could be achieved by less anti-competitive means than the Merger, and Microsoft could acquire 'attractive content and experience with player engagement and acquisition' by buying a different mobile games publisher.