FTC Ends Appeal on Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard Deal

The FTC has officially dropped its appeal against Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard, which was finalized back in 2023 for a staggering $68.7 billion, making it the largest buyout in the gaming sector. The Federal Trade Commission had previously contested the deal on the grounds that it would harm competition in various gaming markets, issuing an antitrust lawsuit in December 2022. However, following a rejection of the appeal by the 9th Circuit Court, the FTC concluded that dismissing the case was in the public's best interest. Microsoft's president, Brad Smith, celebrated the decision as a win for gamers and thanked the FTC for their announcement. Since the acquisition, Microsoft has maintained the availability of popular titles like Call of Duty on PlayStation and has expanded its offerings by bringing Xbox Studios games to a wider audience, including releases on Switch and PlayStation.

This decision opens the door for Microsoft to continue expanding its gaming portfolio, potentially leading to even more cross-platform releases. It allows the company to focus on integration and development without legal hindrance, suggesting a broader availability of Activision Blizzard titles across multiple platforms in the future.

The acquisition of Activision Blizzard was a landmark moment in the gaming industry, not only due to its size but also because it brought significant franchises like Call of Duty under Microsoft's umbrella. This move aimed to strengthen Microsoft's position in the gaming market, particularly against competitors like Sony and Nintendo. By keeping key titles available on rival consoles, Microsoft seeks to cultivate goodwill and expand its player base globally.