Various instances are currently examining the acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft. In the process, the corresponding Brazilian authority also interviewed other parties such as Apple, Google, Ubisoft and Sony to capture their opinions. Since this authority places a lot of emphasis on transparency, the interview can be viewed. Resetera member Idas has summarised these transcripts and summarised the most important statements. Sony, in particular, seems concerned with this acquisition and expresses concerns.
We’ve known since the beginning of this year that Microsoft was looking to acquire Activision Blizzard. But before the purchase is considered complete, a number of independent bodies must first examine the case. A total of 20 regulatory authorities have to look at the purchase agreements and make their judgement. These include a Brazilian one, which also includes other companies in its judgement.
A summary of these interviews has surfaced on the Resetera forum, summarising the different views of big companies such as Warner Bros, Ubisoft and Bandai Namco. Sony also has its say in this interview and, according to forum member Idas, comments on the acquisition as follows.
Probably the most important factor in buying a new console is the availability of video games. Some brands are so popular that they can significantly influence the purchase. According to Sony, Call of Duty is one of them. If it turned out that Call of Duty would become Xbox and PC exclusive, this could have fatal consequences for Sony. After all, there are few developers or publishers on the market who could produce games on a similar scale. After all, such a production would involve enormous costs for the companies. But even if there were a COD counterpart for the PlayStation, it could not possibly compete with the original.
At least Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II will still be released for PC, PlayStation and Xbox. What the future holds for the massive franchise, however, remains uncertain.
