The Xbox manager of the American firm’s sector has spoken out on the case of a failed takeover bid. The potential acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft throws a rock in the water in the video game industry. Will this umpteenth speech tip the balance?
“This is an important acquisition for us. It’s not a long-term cornerstone. Xbox will continue to exist if this agreement is not reached.” This was stated by Phil Spencer (CEO of Xbox) during an interview with Time. The question concerned a possible rejection of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard It amounted, as we remember, to 69 billion dollars. However, despite the risk of non-validation of the agreement, the director of Microsoft’s gaming branch wants to have confidence in the future of his department.. Phil Spencer is present in the United Kingdom to reassure the Competition and Markets Authority following a hearing by the European Commission. He gave his reasons to show that the acquisition was a good thing for the gaming industry.
Will Microsoft reinvigorate the market?
The main concern of the competitors (Sony not to name them) is the takeover via this takeover of the Call Of Duty franchise. The risks of not seeing this series again on PlayStation crystallize all the tensions. The Xbox director refutes the idea that the problem would come from them. Moreover, he explains that they offered a 10-year contract, to ensure that a new installment of the Call of Duty series is available on PlayStation the same day as on Xbox. Sony itself calls CoD irreplaceable in order to maintain its position in this fierce competition with Microsoft.
“Competition is us trying to be stronger,” says Phil Spencer (Xbox CEO)
Phil Spencer also said he was surprised by the judgment of intent that is brought to Microsoft. He explains that the American firm has no interest in being ultra-dominant on the market. Moreover, he says he is very surprised that market regulators are protecting Sony. The Japanese company would hold, according to a press conference last week, 70% of the video game market.
“I wouldn’t want consoles to end up where there are only two manufacturers. And right now we have three good competitors. -Phil Spencer
He also claims that government regulators have a poor understanding of the video game industry.
Phil Spencer, CEO of Xbox
However, he appreciates their willingness to want to know more about this world and has sympathy for them. But, very clever, that means when the acquisition will take place. The parties involved are waging a merciless war to have the declaration that will tip the scales. Let’s make sure that this acquisition (or not) will leave traces for all market players. The clock is ticking soon the epilogue?