After a long journey of navigating through regulatory hurdles in the UK, EU, and US, it’s finally official – Microsoft has acquired Activision Blizzard, making them a part of the Microsoft family.
This merger was first announced on January 18, 2022, and it’s been a rollercoaster ride ever since, but they’ve crossed the finish line.
Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer extended a warm welcome to Activision Blizzard, saying:
“As one team, we’ll learn, innovate, and continue to deliver on our promise to bring the joy and community of gaming to more people. We’ll do this in a culture that strives to empower everyone to do their best work, where all people are welcome, and is centered on our ongoing commitment to Gaming for Everyone.”
So, it looks like inclusivity is a top priority for the future of gaming.
The good news for gamers? They’re planning to bring beloved Activision, Blizzard, and King franchises to Game Pass and other platforms, which is bound to make the gaming universe even more exciting.
Bobby Kotick, the CEO of Activision Blizzard, shared in a letter to employees that he’s committed to aiding in the transition.
“Phil has asked me to stay on as CEO of ABK, reporting to him, and we have agreed that I will do that through the end of 2023. We both look forward to working together on a smooth integration for our teams and players.”
Ubisoft also joined the conversation, snagging perpetual cloud streaming rights for Call of Duty and other Activision Blizzard titles. Ubisoft is stoked about this opportunity:
“Ubisoft is a long-standing believer in the power of cloud gaming, and these streaming rights will enable us to deliver even more experiences to players in more places than ever before. Now that the deal is complete, we can begin working on the operational aspects of bringing these games to Ubisoft+, our subscription offer.”
This significant merger marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in the gaming industry’s evolution. With Microsoft and Activision Blizzard now united, the possibilities for new gaming experiences, innovations, and collaborations are vast. Gamers can eagerly anticipate a future filled with fresh content, enhanced gameplay, and an even broader gaming community.
As these two gaming giants combine their strengths, it’s safe to say that the gaming landscape is bound to undergo some remarkable transformations. This merger not only promises an array of thrilling games but also emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that everyone can be a part of the gaming world.
So, as we look ahead, it’s a thrilling time for gamers and the gaming industry as a whole. Keep your controllers and keyboards ready because more exciting gaming adventures are on the horizon.