So, officially: European Commission launched a thorough investigation into Microsoft’s $68.7 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The first phase of the investigation took place in September. EU regulators now have a deadline of March 23, 2023.
The commission explains the progress of the investigation in more detail concern. He is concerned that the proposed acquisition could reduce competition in the console and PC game distribution markets. It also expresses concern that Microsoft will not restrict access to Activision Blizzard console games and PC video games, including well-known and successful titles such as Call of Duty.
Another cited reason is the fear that Microsoft will prevent Activision Blizzard from distributing games by subscription or through cloud streaming services.
Source: blizzardThe Xbox boss is excited about bringing back big games like StarCraft and Warcraft.
Very similar concerns were presented some time ago by the UK regulator. Microsoft has previously flagged these issues as inappropriate and accused the commission of accepting Sony’s complaints without considering the potential harm to consumers.
Microsoft claims that it intent not to restrict players’ access to games. After all, the very motto of the American company is that everyone should have access to games, regardless of what they play. Plus, they added that Call of Duty will be released on the PlayStation as long as the console exists.
Microsoft’s comment about the new decision of the European Commission sounds in a similar vein.
“We continue to work with the European Commission on the next steps and address all legitimate market concerns. Sony, as an industry leader, says they’re worried about Call of Duty, but we’re aiming to make the same game available on Xbox and PlayStation on the same day. We want people to have more access to games, not less.” a Microsoft spokesperson said.
But, as it gradually becomes clear, the problem is not so much with Call of Duty as with Xbox Game Pass. Many popular games will be signed up by Microsoft after the acquisition of Activision Blizzard. In addition, as per Microsoft custom, Call of Duty and other new games will be available by subscription on the day of release. This is a real incentive to pay for Game Pass.
Microsoft expects to close its acquisition of Activision Blizzard by the end of fiscal year 2023, which ends June 2023. The most important should be the decision of the US Federal Commission.
Source :Indian TV
