The UK competition authority has given Microsoft the final go-ahead to buy the publisher of the multiplayer fighting game Call of Duty, Activision Blizzard. The deal, valued at $75 billion, marks a major milestone in the video game industry. After an initial refusal in April, Microsoft submitted an amended version of its proposed takeover to the UK authority last August. This new version includes some notable divestments, notably the sale of Activision Blizzard’s online gaming rights to France’s Ubisoft. These rights include best-selling games such as “Call of Duty” and “Candy Crush”. The Competition and Markets Commission (CMA) had already granted a provisional agreement in September, but cited “limited residual concerns”. However, it now assures that the solutions proposed by Microsoft will guarantee proper implementation of the agreement. This decision confirms that the acquisition can be finalized in the coming months. Brad Smith, President of Microsoft, expressed his satisfaction with the decision: “We are grateful for the thorough review of this agreement and the CMA’s decision today. We have now cleared the final regulatory hurdle to finalize this acquisition, which we believe will benefit gamers and the gaming industry worldwide”. This acquisition will enable Microsoft to strengthen its position in the video game industry, adding Activision Blizzard’s successful franchises to its portfolio. Call of Duty, one of the world’s most popular games, will continue to be developed and supported by Microsoft, and the acquisition also reflects the dynamics of the video game market, which has grown exponentially in recent years. It is important to note that this acquisition has been approved by the UK Competition Authority, but remains subject to further regulatory approvals in other countries. However, given the size of this acquisition and the regulatory environment, it is likely that the necessary approvals will be obtained. Microsoft’s $75 billion takeover of Activision Blizzard has been approved by the UK Competition Authority. This acquisition will enable Microsoft to strengthen its position in the video game industry and add Activision Blizzard’s successful franchises to its portfolio. Gamers around the world are looking forward to the future developments of this major alliance in the video game industry. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tJfiDKm5To
