The weekend announcement follows a series of regulatory breakthroughs for Microsoft.
Last week, the company achieved favorable outcomes on both sides of the Atlantic, bringing it closer to securing victory in the acquisition deal. The stage is set for Microsoft to reshape the gaming industry. And it plans to consolidate its position as a dominant player.
The resolution of the rivalry between Microsoft and Sony over Call of Duty licensing represents a significant turning point.
Previously, Sony had declined Microsoft’s offer to license Activision’s games, which fueled regulatory attempts in the US and UK to block the deal.
Microsoft argued that Sony’s refusal was driven by competitive motives rather than genuine concerns for the gaming community. An email from PlayStation chief Jim Ryan surfaced, indicating that Sony had no intention of turning Activision games into Xbox exclusives. The situation changed when Ryan reviewed the proposed terms offered by Microsoft.
Microsoft and Activision Blizzard deal details
Microsoft has already secured 10-year licenses for Activision games with other companies including Nintendo. The licensing agreement with Sony adds a crucial piece to the puzzle.
