Microsoft And Activision Blizzard Finalize Their Merger After CMA Gives Its Approval

It’s been a long uphill battle for Microsoft and Activision Blizzard, but both parties have finally inked their $69 billion merger after the UK Competition and Markets Authority officially gave its approval.

To recap, the merger was first announced back in 2021, right around the same time that Activision Blizzard was facing massive backlash for alleged sexual harassment and discrimination within its walls and its continued unionbusting efforts.

Over the past two years, various regulatory agencies have been trying to block the merger over antitrust and monopoly concerns, particularly when it comes to the Call of Duty franchise. Sony even threw in a jab or two before the PlayStation company grudgingly let things play out on their own.

With Microsoft now at the helm, it’s now up to them to repair Activision Blizzard’s damaged reputation. As for Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick, he’ll be staying on as CEO for the next few months to ensure a smooth transition and will be reporting directly to Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer until he steps down at the end of 2023.

“Today is a good day to play,” Phil Spencer tweeted. “We officially welcome Activision Blizzard King to Team Xbox. Together, we’ll create stories and experiences that bring players together, in a culture empowering everyone to do their best work and celebrate diverse perspectives.”

Today is a good day to play. We officially welcome Activision Blizzard King to Team Xbox. Together, we’ll create stories and experiences that bring players together, in a culture empowering everyone to do their best work and celebrate diverse perspectives. https://t.co/KBCESknYYh https://t.co/jTHOeH48Wx

— Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) October 13, 2023