Microsoft has been cleared to acquire Activision Blizzard by UK regulators, removing the last hurdle standing in the way of closing the deal.
Microsoft CEO Phil Spencer published an announcement on the deal completion, saying “today, we officially welcome Activision Blizzard and their teams to Xbox”.
The deal closed after Microsoft submitted an alternate proposal to the UK Competition and Markets Authority that addressed the agency’s concerns over cloud gaming, the sticking point that led them to reject the acquisition in the first place. With Ubisoft getting Activision cloud gaming rights outside the European Economic Area for the next 15 years, this was enough to take care of the most glaring concerns, though the CMA said there were some minor reservations that wouldn’t stand in the way.
Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith also shared a statement on the long process coming to an end.
“We have now crossed the final regulatory hurdle to close this acquisition, which we believe will benefit players and the gaming industry worldwide,” he said.
Spencer emphasized that Microsoft will begin by moving forward with the promises made to secure the deal.
“As promised, we will also continue to make more games available in more places – and that begins now by enabling cloud streaming providers and players to stream Activision Blizzard games in the European Economic Area, a commitment made to the European Commission. Today we start the work to bring beloved Activision, Blizzard, and King franchises to Game Pass and other platforms. We’ll share more about when you can expect to play in the coming months. We know you’re excited – and we are too.”
Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier also noted that Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick is expected to depart the company on January 1, 2024, making way for new leadership after more than 30 years.
Activision Blizzard games are expected to start joining the Xbox Game Pass library in 2024.
