Game publisher consolidation seems to be entering another round. Currently, the rumor is doing the rounds that Amazon wants to make an offer for Electronic Arts.
Update 2022-08-26 14:38:
The situation is still unclear. As the rumor continues to circulate, a CNBC analyst disagrees, claiming that Amazon won’t make an offer, according to its sources. It remains exciting for the time being. The trigger for the original rumor appears to be that Apple has now withdrawn from the takeover talks surrounding EA. Talks between Apple and EA have been going on since May.
Original message 2022-08-26 13:51:
Wow, that comes… not surprising. There have long been rumors that Electronic Arts is about to be taken over by another company, with Apple, Disney and Amazon initially being discussed.
This is now taking concrete form. As USA Today
Basically, this would be a smart move for Amazon. Amazon’s games division has been rather bumpy so far and the takeover of EA along with all the studios would mean a powerful boost. In addition, Amazon certainly has enough money to be able to afford the expensive sports licenses from EA (FIFA, NFL, NHL, F1). And that’s not all: Amazon could also use the EA licenses to produce films and series for Prime Video, such as Mass Effect, Dragon Age, Battlefield and many more.
There would certainly not be a lack of funds, Amazon could more or less pay for a purisher like EA out of petty cash. Statements from EA or Amazon are still pending, we will keep you posted.