Microsoft’s Call of Duty Assurance Amidst $69 Billion Acquisition

In a groundbreaking move, Microsoft has signed a binding agreement to ensure the beloved Call of Duty video game franchise remains accessible on Sony’s PlayStation platform, even after the colossal $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The tech giant’s commitment has eased concerns not only for Sony but also for the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and global regulators, who are closely scrutinizing the deal’s implications on copyright, data privacy, and competition.

The announcement was made public through a tweet from Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, who expressed delight in preserving Call of Duty’s presence on PlayStation. He emphasized their vision of providing players worldwide with more options to enjoy their favorite games.

The FTC in the United States had raised objections, fearing the acquisition would lead to negative consequences for consumers who played video games on consoles or had subscriptions. Concerns were raised that Microsoft might prioritize its interests and sideline rivals like Sony Group. However, Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley dismissed these claims on June 11th, stating that there was no substantial evidence to suggest that Call of Duty would be pulled from PlayStation or that competition in the video game library subscription and cloud gaming markets would be severely impacted.

To allay the FTC’s concerns, Microsoft went a step further and agreed to license Call of Duty to other competitors, including a decade-long contract with Nintendo, contingent on the completion of the merger.

Microsoft’s President, Brad Smith, took to Twitter to reiterate their commitment to addressing regulatory concerns, supporting game developers and consumers alike. Even after the acquisition’s approval, Microsoft remains steadfast in ensuring that Call of Duty continues to be accessible on various platforms, catering to a broader audience than ever before.

While the acquisition deadline is set for July 18th, both Microsoft and Activision Blizzard have the option to extend it. The European Union already approved the takeover deal in May, despite resistance from the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority. However, the CMA expressed openness to negotiate with Microsoft regarding the acquisition.

Stay tuned for further updates as the gaming world eagerly awaits the finalization of this monumental deal, with Call of Duty’s future secured and players worldwide looking forward to a new era of gaming possibilities.