Super mixed opinions about this one. On the one hand, I hate the consolidation, ever approaching monopolies. But on the other hand, Actiblizz management has been so bad for so long, I’m looking forward to them getting out of the way and seeing what can come when people who want to make games get to use their IPs. But also, is there anyone left in blizzard leadership who even cares anymore?
It’s a weird situation this potential merger puts me in - I agree with you in all points. Not quite a done deal though, as the CMA in the UK is still blocking it. Sounds like MS can now extend the initial deal past the July 28 hearing with the CMA.
“Activision Blizzard has also reacted to the decision. Bobby Kotick, Activision Blizzard’s CEO, said in a statement. ‘It will enable competition rather than allow entrenched market leaders to continue to dominate our rapidly growing industry.’”
How exactly would a single company gobbling up tons of established IP and studios enable more competition? This is a miserable day for consumers.
I think it makes Microsoft a more appealing choice from a consumer standpoint. Not entirely convinced it will create or reduce competition in any meaningful way in the market. Sony still has a great exclusives portfolio and Nintendo is on another level when it comes to IP. Still, I’d be upset if I was a Sony gamer.
“Waaaaah, I can’t play this one game because it’s an Xbox exclusive.” Plays the 90 Sony exclusives instead.
That comment has strong “sense of accomplishment” vibes…
I hate to see what this could do to the very fledgling linux gaming rennace. Hopefully we see it get real teath before corporate Microsoft puts even more pressure on it.
