The European Commission examines the takeover of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft


It’s the European Union’s turn to join the dance. In a press release published yesterday, the European Commission announced that it was opening an in-depth investigation into the takeover of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft. The body noting in passing its fears about an acquisition that could “reduce competition in the markets for the distribution of video games for consoles and PCs”. For the case to move forward, we will have to wait for the conclusions of the investigation. The Commission has 90 working days, i.e. until March 25, 2023.

A first preliminary survey has been carried out, raising points raised by almost all global regulators to date. The possibility that Microsoft would have with such a takeover to oust its competitors – read Sony here – from the distribution of Activision Blizzard titles. or lock access to its games in its subscription services, namely the almighty Game Pass.

The European Commission is also concerned about the possible Windows monopoly on PC gaming. Probably twenty years behind on this last point.

Microsoft’s Routine

These issues raised are far from new. American, Chinese, Brazilian and recently English regulators have already voiced their fears about this takeover on an unprecedented scale. On the Microsoft side, we are well aware of the work to be done to convince the whole world that the absorption of Activision Blizzard would not be harmful for consumers. Even on the contrary beneficial. It is not for nothing that Phil Spencer multiplies the outputs on this subject, announcing recently that Call of Duty would remain available at Sony, “as long as there is a PlayStation”.

In summary, not much new to report. It is above all an official confirmation that the takeover is being monitored by the European Union, and that the process is moving forward. No real indication of the outcome of the case, whether negative or positive. Even if, for an acquisition which must be concluded in the spring of 2023, we have known a clearer road.



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