Why is Xbox Buying Activision?
Xbox is buying Activision to expand its gaming portfolio and gain access to multi-million dollar IPs such as Call of Duty, Overwatch, Diablo, and WarCraft franchises, as well as studios like Treyarch and Infinity Ward. This acquisition is a strategic move to strengthen Xbox’s position in the gaming industry, particularly at a time when video game IP is proving highly valuable, as seen with the success of HBO’s The Last of Us adaptation.
Overview of the Acquisition
The acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft, the owner of Xbox, is a significant deal worth $69 billion, making it the largest in gaming history. This purchase has been in the works for nearly 22 months, facing opposition from antitrust regulators and rivals due to concerns that Microsoft could use its growing collection of games to lessen competition.
Impact on the Gaming Industry
The acquisition gives Microsoft control over a vast library of popular games, potentially altering the competitive landscape of the gaming industry. Sony, the owner of PlayStation, has been a major competitor to Xbox, and this deal could impact the availability of Call of Duty and other Activision games on PlayStation consoles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it true that Xbox bought Activision?: Yes, Microsoft, which owns Xbox, has completed its $69 billion deal to buy Activision Blizzard.
- What happens if Microsoft owns Activision?: Acquiring Activision Blizzard gives Microsoft access to multi-million dollar IPs and studios, increasing its presence in the gaming industry.
- Why can’t Microsoft buy Blizzard?: The purchase was delayed due to concerns from regulators and rivals that Microsoft would own too much of the industry, potentially harming competition.
- Is Xbox taking over Call of Duty?: Microsoft has acquired Activision, the maker of Call of Duty, but has agreed to keep the series on PlayStation.
- Who is Xbox owned by?: Xbox is owned by Microsoft.
- Who is the CEO of Xbox?: Phil Spencer is the CEO of Microsoft Gaming and has been instrumental in the acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
- Who owns PS5?: The PS5 is owned by Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC, a subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation.
- Can Microsoft buy Activision?: Microsoft has already completed the purchase of Activision Blizzard for $69 billion.
- Did Microsoft buy Activision?: Yes, Microsoft has finalized the acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
- Who owns Call of Duty?: Activision Blizzard owns the Call of Duty franchise, which is now under Microsoft.
- Who bought out Activision?: Microsoft acquired Activision Blizzard in a $69 billion deal.
- Is Sony buying Activision?: No, Microsoft has acquired Activision Blizzard, not Sony.
- Will PlayStation still get Call of Duty?: Yes, Microsoft has agreed to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation consoles.
- Does Microsoft own Activision forever?: With the completion of the acquisition, Microsoft now owns Activision Blizzard and its assets.
- How much did Microsoft pay for Minecraft?: Microsoft purchased Minecraft for $2.5 billion, expanding the game’s reach and adding new features.