In a historic move, Microsoft has successfully acquired Activision Blizzard. This acquisition, which finally ended following a series of negotiations, legal battles, and regulatory reviews, brings multiplatform franchises like Call of Duty, Diablo, Overwatch, Crash Bandicoot, and more under Microsoft’s domain. But as fans anxiously speculate on the future of these popular series, Phil Spencer, the Xbox boss, offers some reassurance, particularly to players on competing platforms like PS5.
This merger, marked with a staggering $68.7 billion price tag, solidifies Microsoft’s position in the gaming sector. But, in the middle of all the excitement, there has been growing unease regarding the exclusivity of beloved game franchises. A massive chunk of players are waiting for news on whether these titles, many of which have found homes across various platforms, would become Xbox exclusives.
In his statement on Xbox Wire, Spencer set the record straight. “For the millions of fans who love Activision, Blizzard, and King games, we want you to know that today is a good day to play,” he expressed. Highlighting the integral role of gamers in these franchises, Spencer extended a warm welcome to all, irrespective of the platforms they favor. Whether you play on Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo, PC or mobile, you are welcome here – and will remain welcome, even if Xbox isn’t where you play your favorite franchise,” he continued.
While Microsoft has committed to retaining Call of Duty on PlayStation consoles for the upcoming decade, it made zero assurance for other games. If it’s any consolation, Spencer’s words seem to indicate a broader inclusivity. He emphasizes how gaming is a collective experience where “when everyone plays, we all win”. Spencer’s vision is based on embracing possibilities and creating innovative gaming experiences. “We believe our news today will unlock a world of possibilities for more ways to play,” he remarked, teasing more exciting announcements in the coming months.
The successful completion of this acquisition, which took over a year, presents Microsoft with a diverse range of games. Reflecting on Activision’s iconic contributions to the gaming landscape, Spencer expressed his admiration for the works of Activision, Blizzard, and King. Recounting his personal experiences with Diablo 4 and Guitar Hero, he committed to delivering a diverse game lineup that caters to varied player scenarios, including mobile and cloud streaming.
In this new venture, Bobby Kotick will maintain his role as CEO of Activision Blizzard King, reporting to Spencer until the end of 2023. In a note to Activision employees, Kotick elucidated on this arrangement and shared his enthusiasm for a smooth integration for both the teams and players.
So, if it isn’t exclusivity, what was the acquisition for? Well, money, specifically to make more of it. Games such as Call of Duty or Diablo are unlikely to become exclusives, considering their massive revenue generation across platforms. Case in point, restricting Call of Duty, a game that potentially made at least half of its entire revenue from PlayStation, to its own platform, would be counter-intuitive for Microsoft. The real incentive likely is to bolster Microsoft’s gaming division revenue.
Don’t forget that next year’s Call of Duty will likely be available on all three major gaming platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo.
This move by Microsoft has also sparked discussions on the broader landscape of gaming. While some critics express concerns about mega corporations growing larger and the potential impacts of such consolidation, others highlight the revenue-driven strategy of both PlayStation and Xbox. It’s evident that major companies, including Sony, might explore further acquisitions, emphasizing the game of revenue rather than mere exclusivity.
Spencer’s words resonate with a sentiment of inclusivity, reiterating that even in this colossal merger, the player remains at the heart of it all. It is a promising start. Let’s just hope it lasts.
