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In its quest to conquer new frontiers and achieve unparalleled growth, Microsoft has been actively exploring potential acquisitions of various gaming companies over the past three years. Notable entities such as Sega, Bungie, and Niantic have all been on Microsoft’s radar, as the tech giant aims to establish a solid foundation for its own mobile gaming empire. Microsoft firmly believes that mobile gaming holds the key to propelling the company to unprecedented heights in the gaming industry.

Offering deeper insights into the company’s ambitious plans, an email from several years ago, penned by Xbox Chief Phil Spencer, sheds light on Microsoft’s strategic vision and future prospects in gaming.

Microsoft mobile gaming coming soon?

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Journalist Tim Warren recently took to Twitter to share details of an email from 2019, in which Phil Spencer likens Xbox to Polaroid, drawing parallels between analog film and Xbox consoles, while highlighting the exponential growth of mobile gaming akin to digital photography. Spencer emphasizes the need for Microsoft to have its own mobile gaming company, drawing a comparison to Activision’s endeavors.

This revelation aligns seamlessly with recent developments and documents that have come to light during Microsoft’s ongoing hearing with the Federal Trade Commission concerning its acquisition of Activision Blizzard.

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A leaked internal company document from 2021 has unveiled a comprehensive list of potential acquisitions, including renowned names like Bungie, the developer behind Destiny (which was subsequently acquired by Sony in 2022); Niantic, the masterminds behind Pokemon GO; mobile game powerhouse Zynga (which was acquired by Take-Two in 2022); Supergiant Games, the creators of Hades; and IO Interactive, the masterminds behind the Hitman series. All of these companies were identified as potential acquisitions that would contribute to Microsoft’s overarching goal of expanding its audience reach.

Read More: Is Sony Going Already Defeated in the $69 Billion Microsoft X Activision Deal?

Connecting the dots with the aforementioned leaked email, it becomes evident that this pursuit of “audience expansion” is, in fact, Microsoft’s strategic entry into the immensely profitable and rapidly growing realm of mobile gaming. Acquiring established giants within the industry marks just the beginning of Microsoft’s foray into this burgeoning sector.

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As the gaming landscape continues to evolve and embrace the mobile realm, Microsoft’s strategic pursuit of mobile gaming dominance signifies its determination to stay at the forefront of industry trends. By strategically acquiring established players, Microsoft aims to fortify its position and seize the vast opportunities presented by the ever-expanding mobile gaming market. With its sights set on conquering new horizons, Microsoft is poised to redefine the boundaries of gaming and shape the future of interactive entertainment.