UK authorities have granted their approval for Microsoft’s colossal USD 68.7 billion deal with Activision Blizzard, following the green light from the FTC in July. This decision marks a momentous turning point in the gaming industry. As it clears the path for Ubisoft to assume control of iconic titles such as Call of Duty. Consequently, Microsoft is emerging as a global gaming powerhouse.
Microsoft Gaming’s CEO, Phil Spencer, a dedicated gamer himself, has expressed his admiration for the profound impact of Activision Blizzard and its subsidiary, King, on gaming and popular culture. Games like Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, and Candy Crush Saga have enraptured millions of players worldwide.
Microsoft’s Historic Acquisition of Activision Blizzard is finally complete
Ubisoft, a major player in the ever-evolving cloud gaming sphere, now possesses the perpetual cloud streaming rights for Call of Duty and other Activision Blizzard titles. This means that in the European Economic Area (EEA), which encompasses EU countries, gamers can freely stream these games.
Beyond the EEA, Ubisoft holds control over the cloud streaming rights, with the option to license them to Microsoft for Xbox Cloud Gaming. The likelihood of withholding these licenses is minimal, given that Microsoft is prepared to pay a wholesale fee for these rights.
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As part of this groundbreaking deal, Activision Blizzard games will become part of Ubisoft Plus, the company’s game subscription service. While the exact timeline for full availability remains uncertain, this arrangement is set to last for 15 years. With perpetual licenses ensuring Ubisoft’s enduring control.
The gaming industry’s shift towards streaming is revolutionizing accessibility. With Ubisoft striving to make gaming as convenient as music and movie streaming. To summarize, Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, Ubisoft’s strides in cloud gaming. And the ever-evolving gaming landscape promise to enhance the convenience and accessibility of gaming for players worldwide.
In a heartfelt email to employees, Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick commented:
Today signifies a monumental moment in our company’s storied history. Our union with Microsoft will provide fresh resources and new opportunities for our exceptional teams worldwide. It will empower us to deliver more fun, more joy, and more connections to a broader player base than ever before.
This milestone is the culmination of your dedication and innovation over four decades.
Chris Early, Ubisoft’s SVP of Strategic Partnerships & Business Development, added:
Taking on these rights allows Ubisoft to introduce Activision Blizzard games like Call of Duty to Ubisoft Plus. And even grant streaming access licenses to cloud gaming companies, service providers, and console manufacturers. In doing so, we are broadening access to these games across various streaming platforms, benefiting more players than ever before.
