After numerous legal battles, the mega-acquisition is now nearing completion.
Long and tough wrangling has taken place over the future of the largest acquisition in the gaming industry to date. Now, the final deal is actually expected to close soon. In a new offer, Microsoft has been able to rebut the concerns of the British competition authorities.
New deal for Activision Blizzard acquisition
Shortly after the acquisition was announced in early 2022 competition authorities around the world began an extensive review of the deal. After almost all major authorities except the UK’s Competion and Markets Authority (CMA) signaled their approval, the breakthrough now also appears to have been achieved in the UK.
With a revised deal construct, Microsoft appears to have put the CMA’s previous concerns to rest. (In an official statement) ahead of a final decision on Oct. 6, the U.K.’s competition watchdogs are showing an open mind about the deal.
Streaming and cloud gaming rights to go to Ubisoft
For the acquisition, a potential dominant position especially in the cloud gaming or streaming sector was one of the exclusion criteria for the CMA. Now, however, Microsoft has revised the bid and promised that it would give up Activision Blizzard’s rights in this regard to Ubisoft.
These are to remain outside Microsoft for 15 years, ensuring competition. With this plan, the CMA was satisfied and let it be known that they are now inclined to approve the acquisition.
Should the decision of the CMA on October 6 be in favor of Microsoft, the last major hurdle for the megadeal in gaming falls. Accordingly, the acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft could then be finalized in October.
