New Microsoft/Activision deal addresses previous CMA concerns in cloud gaming.
The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has announced that it is now consulting on the remedies offered by Microsoft to address its concerns about the proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The CMA had previously blocked the deal due to concerns that it would harm competition in cloud gaming.
Under the new deal, Microsoft will not purchase the cloud gaming rights held by Activision, which will instead be sold to an independent third party, Ubisoft Entertainment SA (Ubisoft). This will ensure that Activision’s key games, such as Call of Duty, Overwatch, and World of Warcraft, remain available to all cloud gaming service providers.
The CMA has provisionally concluded that Microsoft’s proposed remedies should address its concerns about the new deal. However, the CMA is now seeking feedback from the public and other stakeholders before making a final decision.
The consultation will close on 6 October 2023.
What does this mean for gamers?
If the CMA approves the new deal, it will mean that gamers will have access to Activision’s games through a variety of cloud gaming services, including Microsoft’s own Xbox Cloud service. This will give gamers more choice and flexibility in how they play their favourite games.
It is also important to note that the CMA’s decision only applies to the UK market.
The CMA’s announcement is a positive development for gamers and the cloud gaming industry. If the CMA approves the new deal, it will mean that gamers will have more choice and flexibility in how they play their favourite games.
