Microsoft Finalizes Acquisition of Activision Blizzard for $68.7 Billion
Deal Marks Biggest Gaming Industry Acquisition in History
Microsoft Closes Transaction after Year-Long Regulatory Review
Microsoft Corporation has finalized its acquisition of Activision Blizzard, the publisher behind popular video game franchises such as Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, and Diablo. The $68.7 billion deal, announced in January 2022, is the largest ever in the video game industry.
Under the terms of the agreement, Microsoft will pay $95.00 per share in cash for all outstanding Activision Blizzard shares. The acquisition gives Microsoft control over a vast portfolio of game titles, studios, and intellectual property.
The deal has faced scrutiny from regulators in the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom. Concerns centered around the potential for Microsoft to gain an unfair advantage in the gaming market by owning exclusive rights to popular game franchises.
However, Microsoft has pledged to address antitrust concerns by offering concessions such as making Call of Duty available on rival platforms. The company has also committed to investing in Activision Blizzard's studios and expanding its game offerings on both Xbox consoles and the PC.
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