Microsoft sells Activision Blizzard cloud gaming rights to Ubisoft
The cloud gaming rights of Activision Blizzard King are destined for Ubisoft as Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard appears to be moving ahead despite CMA scrutiny.
The sale of Activision Blizzard cloud gaming rights to Ubisoft is confirmed as part of the Microsoft acquisition deal, with the CMA now awaiting final approval for the agreement. Many believe this could hinder the development of bring-your-own-games (BYOG) cloud services, and there is a consensus that Ubisoft is trying to improve its reputation, similar to what Activision Blizzard is doing.
Some believe that Microsoft’s previous acquisitions of Mojang (Minecraft) and Bethesda indicate that it could easily acquire Ubisoft as well, but others point out that the CMA scrutiny may have influenced this move.
“Microsoft has already shown that it’s not afraid to merge assets,” one commenter says, “and I’m sure if they wanted to they could easily gobble up EA and Ubisoft as well.” Others doubt that Microsoft will be allowed to acquire another major publisher after the scrutiny it faced with the Activision Blizzard deal.
“I guess there are no laws against monopolies anymore,” one user replies sarcastically, “what with it being the late-stage capitalist system and all.” Another humorous comment suggests that the solution is to “eat the rich.”
Some point out that Nintendo may step in to prevent Microsoft from acquiring Ubisoft, given their good relationship. Others argue that Ubisoft is a sinking ship, as they have faced financial challenges and cost-cutting efforts.
“The live service model is broken,” one user says, “and the saturation of battle passes and microtransactions in Ubisoft’s games is embarrassing.” Another argues that shareholders prioritize profits over the quality of games and player experience.
Users who are more familiar with the industry argue that this will hinder the development of bring-your-own-games (BYOG) cloud services. “Microsoft is already losing a lot of potential revenue by not selling these rights,” one user says, “and this will hinder the ability for cloud gaming services like Stadia to play games without having to pay Microsoft.”
Cloud gaming providers like Google Stadia are mentioned, and there is confusion about what cloud gaming actually means. Some point out that this deal is good for the CMA, but it may be bad for consumers.
Check out the reactions below.
This is a win for the CMA, but I’m not sure what the long-term implications are.
Microsoft is buying Activision Blizzard, but the cloud gaming rights for King will go to Ubisoft.
The CMA had concerns about Microsoft’s dominance in cloud gaming, and this move could be a response to that.
Microsoft is already losing a lot of potential revenue by not selling these rights.
The growth potential of cloud gaming is discussed, with many pointing out its current limited market share.
Cloud gaming providers like Google Stadia are mentioned, and there is confusion about what cloud gaming actually means.
The idea of Microsoft combining with EA to dominate microtransactions in gaming is brought up humorously.
Check out the reactions below.
