The week was highlighted by the latest news surrounding the Activision-Blizzard acquisition from the UK Competition Commission (CMA). The latter, in fact, has raised concerns about a possible imbalance that would be related to the franchise’s distribution channels. call from duty. Concerns also voiced by the Brazilian Commission a few weeks ago. However, according to Tom Warren, who got his hands on exclusive information, Phil Spencer would have shown his credentials by assuring Jim Ryan that the license would be retained on the competing platform.
A promise that dates back to last January and was sent to the person concerned by letter. An agreement signed by “a few more years” without specifying the duration.
In January, we presented Sony with a signed agreement to guarantee Call of Duty on PlayStation with feature and content parity for at least a few more years beyond the current deal with Sony, an offer that goes well beyond standard gaming industry agreements.
As Phil mentions, this approach is not common for the medium. At least it seems to be a first to date. Earlier this year, Bloomberg had already mentioned a two-year maintenance window, suggesting that Sony’s marketing deals will last until at least 2024. The question remains as to how things will continue after these “several more years”. Total exclusivity or maintenance at less favorable conditions? In any case, Microsoft is doing everything to ensure that it is well understood both by the responsible authorities and in the industry.
