Microsoft bought Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion

Microsot Corporation announced the purchase of Activision Blizzard. The deal is valued at $68.7 billion.

After a fabulous deal to buy Bethesda for $7.5 billion last year, Microsoft continues to go on the offensive. If antitrust regulators approve the deal, which is valued at $68.7 billion, it would be the biggest purchase in the history of the video game industry.

Games are the most dynamic and immersive entertainment category on all platforms today and will play a key role in the evolution of the Metaverse platforms,” said Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO of Microsoft.

We're investing heavily in world-class content, community, and the cloud to usher in a new era of gaming that puts players and creators first and makes gaming safe, inclusive, and accessible to everyone.

All Activision studios, including Treyarch, Raven, High Moon, Beenox, Infinity Ward, Demonware and Toys for Bob, will come under the wing of Microsoft, upon approval of the deal. Along with the purchase, the rights to such series as Warcraft, Call of Duty, StarCraft and others will belong to Microsoft Gaming.

Phil Spencer, head of the Xbox gaming division, will lead Microsoft Gaming. It is not yet known if Activision games will be exclusive to PC and Xbox or continue to be released on PlayStation.

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Phil Spencer introduced the new board of directors of Microsoft Gaming. Most positions will be taken by women.