Friday the 13th! Ahead of a New Call of Duty Release, Microsoft Eyes to Close $68.7 Billion Deal With Activision

After a long wait of nearly two years, it seems like Microsoft will finally get to close its ambitious deal with Activision. Since its announcement in early 2022, the proposed acquisition has ended up making headlines across the internet. Despite all major hurdles, the Xbox maker and the Call of Duty publisher has gotten lots of approvals so far. And the only thing still missing is an official confirmation. However, according to a recent update, it looks like the big day is about to come sooner than later.

Going by the surprising news, Microsoft may seal the deal with Activision Blizzard next week. Now that’s going to be an interesting situation, just ahead of a brand new Call of Duty game in November!

Is Microsoft actually close to sealing the deal?

The overall fate of the proposed acquisition still depends on the final decision of UK’s CMA. It has already given a provisional approval to the $68.7 billion deal. But it’s yet to make the last call regarding an official approval. One can say it’s the only roadblock remaining for the ambitious merger.

Going by the new intel, Microsoft is looking to close its record-setting deal with Call of Duty publisher soon. And the date happens to be October 13th, which is a Friday.

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For the uninitiated, Microsoft had made some changes to please the CMA after its original decision to block the deal. Thanks to its commitment to offer cloud gaming rights for current and future Activision Blizzard titles to Ubisoft, the Xbox maker then managed to secure a provisional approval.

What to expect from Call of Duty in case the deal closes?

If the deal actually ends up getting sealed on Friday the 13th, it will be a new beginning for the popular IP. According to several reports, Microsoft may end up making COD games exclusive to Xbox. However, it’s not something the company has indicated so far. But the consensus is that upcoming games in the series may get published under the Xbox Game Studio’s banner. The latter is run by Phil Spencer, Microsoft’s head of gaming.

Then there are several deals that Microsoft has signed with other publishers. For example, there’s a 10-year agreement with Sony to have future Call of Duty titles on PlayStation consoles. A similar agreement has been signed with Nintendo as well.

Meanwhile, all eyes will be set on October 13 next week. If the latest news is true, things are about to change completely in the gaming industry!

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