Microsoft has formed its plans to become stronger in the gaming industry. The move to take a big step by acquiring Activision Blizzard has been challenged by major competitors in the market, such as Sony, on the grounds that it is anticompetitive. Decisions about the purchasing process are explained.
EU approves deal between Microsoft and Activision Blizzard
At the beginning of 2022, Microsoft’s attempt to buy Activision Blizzard for $ 69 billion had a bomb effect in the gaming world. After this move, while the shares of other companies in the sector decreased, many companies and countries objected to this agreement. Three important review processes have begun.
The long-standing investigations in the European Union, UK and US commissions continue to draw conclusions. In the past weeks, the United Kingdom did not approve the purchase, saying that the agreement would deal a major blow to competition, especially in the cloud gaming industry, and that the agreement would not benefit anyone but the companies.
Microsoft and Activision Blizzard appealed this decision. However, the good news came from another review for companies. The European Union (EU) commission approved the purchase. In the statement regarding the approval, it was said that the deal could hurt the fast-growing cloud gaming industry, but that the concessions the company made were enough to ease antitrust concerns.
Microsoft’s promises for the deal include a 10-year commitment that allows Activision to play its games on any cloud gaming service. The company has also pledged not to degrade the quality or content of its games offered on competing streaming platforms.