Microsoft has announced that it will be acquiring video game giant Activision Blizzard in an all-stock deal valued at $8.2 billion. This massive purchase marks Microsoft’s largest acquisition ever, and the company’s intent to branch out into new markets, such as mobile gaming and eSports, makes the move even more exciting. Here are some reasons why this acquisition makes sense. Here at Duck Blogs, we are committed to getting you the most real news, stories, and reviews out there. If you have any questions feel free to contact us or by letting us know in the comments today.
The Acquisitions
The recent news of Microsoft acquiring Activision Blizzard came as a surprise to many in the gaming industry. However, upon closer inspection, it seems like a smart move for the software giant. Here are five reasons why this acquisition could be great for both companies:
1) It provides a solution to their content production problem – One of the biggest problems that Xbox has faced over the last decade is providing quality games to players who purchase an Xbox console. They have tried purchasing developers and investing in game studios but they have had little success due to limited resources and experience. Buying Activision Blizzard solves these issues by giving them access to some of the best game developers in the world, including makers of World of Warcraft and Call of Duty.
2) It can help fix cross-platform problems – Microsoft made headlines earlier this year when it announced that all future first-party titles would release on PC through Windows 10 Play Anywhere. By acquiring Activision Blizzard, they will now have access to much more high-quality titles than before which should make releasing these new games easier. 3) Increased online services revenue potential – After buying Minecraft developer Mojang, Microsoft was able to charge people for additional features such as skins and texture packs. They hope that by combining their own development teams with those at Activision Blizzard, they will be able to create even more successful online services which should generate higher revenues for the company. 4) More time for developing HoloLens and other innovations – With no pressing video game releases on the horizon, Microsoft will have more time to invest in innovative technologies like HoloLens. 5) More independence from Sony and Nintendo – If any one of the major video game consoles goes out of business or drops out of the market, then Microsoft would take a big hit. As part of this deal, they acquire most intellectual property rights from Activision Blizzard so that they won’t depend on any one console manufacturer anymore.
What Does This Mean For Gamers?
For gamers, this means that some of the most popular games will now be available on Microsoft platforms. It also means that Microsoft will have a stronger foothold in the competitive gaming market. This could lead to more exclusive content and features for Xbox and PC gamers. However, it’s important to note that Activision Blizzard has stated that it will continue to support all major gaming platforms. So, for now, it’s business as usual for gamers. You’ll still be able to play your favorite Activision Blizzard games on PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, or mobile. In fact. Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick said It’s an exciting day for us at Activision Blizzard because we just signed an agreement to become part of Microsoft. Kotick went on to say The combination of our world-class entertainment properties and powerful capabilities creates an incredible opportunity for growth. I am confident that together we can reach even more audiences around the world, especially with the strength of Xbox Live. What Happens Next?: If you’re wondering what happens next, don’t worry! As mentioned earlier, nothing changes right away. But with Microsoft’s purchase, there are many possibilities for what could happen next. With these new opportunities and resources, who knows where Activision Blizzard will go from here?
What Does This Mean For Digital Business?
There are a few key reasons why this move makes sense for Microsoft. First, it gives them access to some of the most popular games in the world, including World of Warcraft, Call of Duty, and Overwatch. Second, it gives them a way to compete with Sony and Nintendo in the console market. Third, it gives them an opportunity to expand their reach into Asia. And fourth, it gives them a chance to acquire new technologies and IPs. There’s no telling what they could find there.
All in all, this is a good move by Microsoft and should allow them to compete on all fronts.