Microsoft’s empire shows no signs of slowing down: now Activision and Blizzard are also under the giant’s huge green umbrella
On what seemed to be a very normal Tuesday in January, as if nothing had happened Microsoft has announced the acquisition of Activision and Blizzard. The two were part of a colossal media storm due to what has recently emerged on the workplace, and now the “Big M” has opted for a measure of Disney proportions. There is talk of an acquisition that will add considerable value to the company’s already expensive shares in a transaction worth 68.7 billion dollars. Of course, this also implies that IPs like Call of Duty, Warcraft, Crash Bandicoot, Spyro the Dragon, Guitar Hero, and many more now have a new home.
The journey of the Bandicoot from Sony, to Activision and Blizzard, to Microsoft
By acquiring Activision, Microsoft doesn’t get “just” Blizzard. Many talented development team can be found with this historic purchase under the umbrella of the family of consoles in green. Let’s talk about Infinity Ward, Raven Software, Sledgehammer Games, Toys for Bob and Treyarch. The number of first-party development teams thus rises to 30, also increasing the possibilities as a publisher and the presence in the mobile sector through King (Candy Crush, Crash on the Run). Negotiations will close by fiscal year 2023 for the jade titan.
We’re looking forward to working with our talented, dedicated friends across Activision Blizzard. As a company we’re committed to our journey for inclusion in every aspect of gaming among both employees and players.
— Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) January 18, 2022
The transaction has been agreed upon by both parties involved, and it has already been confirmed that once the merger process is concluded, Activision and Blizzard employees they will answer directly to Phil Spencer. The latter has already declared himself “incredibly excited” to be able to work with so many talented development teams. It is certainly not misplaced enthusiasm: at the end of the negotiations, Microsoft will become the third gaming company by revenue, after Tencent and Sony. It remains to be seen what the repercussions will be on franchises in terms of exclusivity.
Now it’s up to you to tell us yours: what do you think of this bolt from the blue? Let us know below, and as always don’t forget to stay on TechGameWorld.com for all the most important news for gamers and more. For your purely gaming needs, you can instead find the best discounts in digital format on Instant Gaming.