Activision and Blizzard are two of the biggest game developers in the industry. These two companies single-handedly own some of the biggest titles in gaming, such as Call of Duty, Diablo, Overwatch, and more. So when Microsoft proposed an acquisition deal with the studios, some big red flags were raised. 

Even the European Commission intervened in the deal. They are concerned that Microsoft may get a monopoly on the market if the deal passes. EU has opened up an “in-depth investigation” of the proposal to make sure that this deal doesn’t bring any unfair changes to the market. 

The proposed $68.7 billion acquisition deal of Activision Blizzard was under thorough scrutiny by the regulator in the EU. They started looking at the case back in September, and Microsoft was given a provisional deadline of November. After which, the EU would approve the deal or start an even more in-depth review. 

What did the EU say about Microsoft proposing the Acquisition of Activision Blizzard?

As the provisional period is over, the EU has given the verdict that Microsoft will face a larger probe on their proposal. EU will need another 90 days or more to declare their verdict on the matter. Making the new deadline, March 2023. 

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The reason behind opening an in-depth investigation is, according to The Commission, they are “concerned that the proposed acquisition may reduce competition in the markets for the distribution of console.” This, in the term, can make a situation where Microsoft’s Xbox may gain a monopoly on the console market. 

What did Sony say about the deal? 

One of the biggest names in the gaming industry and Microsoft’s main competitor, Sony, has expressed concerns about the proposal. As Call of Duty is also a bestseller on PlayStation, so losing the licensing rights could be very damaging for the company. 

In the reply to Sony’s concerns, Microsoft said, “Sony, as the industry leader, says it is worried about Call of Duty, but we’ve said we are committed to making the same game available on the same day on both Xbox and PlayStation. We want people to have more access to games, not less.”

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What do you think about Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard acquisition deal? Let us know in the comments below!