UK's CMA Officially Approves Microsoft's Acquisition of Activision Blizzard

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has officially approved Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard. This news comes after the CMA had initially rejected the acquisition, unlike many other countries and regions, including the European Union.

In order to secure the approval by the CMA, Microsoft has struck a deal with the French publisher, Ubisoft. Ubisoft is granted rights to offer Activision Blizzard games via the cloud, although it remains unclear whether this is for specific regions or globally applicable.

As a result, the CMA decided to reassess the acquisition and has now given its approval. The agreement prevents Microsoft from stifling competition in the UK's cloud market. It also allows Ubisoft to offer Activision content through various business models, including multi-game subscriptions, ensuring that cloud gaming providers can continue using operating systems other than Windows for Activision content.

Sarah Cardell, CMA's chief executive, stated they had clearly communicated to Microsoft that the deal would be blocked unless their concerns were addressed. With the transfer of Activision's cloud streaming rights to Ubisoft, they assured Microsoft couldn't monopolize this important and rapidly growing market.

Following this approval, it's expected the acquisition will move forward fast. Rumors suggest it could be finalized today or next week. Last month, Activision Blizzard announced plans to introduce its games on Xbox Game Pass in 2024, assuming the takeover goes through.

In conclusion, the Microsoft-Activision Blizzard acquisition process has stepped forward with the approval of the UK's Competition and Markets Authority, signaling a potential significant shift in the gaming industry's landscape. As part of this process, Ubisoft, a French game publisher, will be granted rights to offer Activision Blizzard games through the cloud.