In a significant development, Microsoft has reached an agreement with Sony to ensure the continuation of the popular Call of Duty franchise on PlayStation consoles. This announcement comes shortly after Microsoft’s legal victory against the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding its acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
Phil Spencer Announces Agreement via Twitter
Microsoft CEO, Phil Spencer, took to Twitter to announce the deal between Microsoft and Sony. He stated that both parties have signed a binding agreement, ensuring that players will continue to enjoy the highly successful first-person shooter franchise on PlayStation consoles. Spencer expressed excitement about providing players worldwide with more options for playing their favorite games in the future.
Legal Triumph Over FTC’s Challenge
The agreement between Microsoft and Sony follows a recent ruling by a California judge in favor of Microsoft against the FTC. The regulatory commission had attempted to delay Microsoft’s purchase of Activision Blizzard but was unsuccessful. Moreover, an appeal filed by the FTC was subsequently rejected.
United Kingdom’s CMA Concerns
Apart from facing challenges from the FTC, Microsoft also encountered scrutiny from another regulatory body – namely, the United Kingdom’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). As part of their review process for this merger, CMA raised concerns about certain aspects of the deal. A meeting between representatives from Microsoft and CMA is scheduled early this week.
Details Regarding Call Of Duty Deal Yet To Be Disclosed
Although no specific details have been made public regarding this new agreement between Sony and Microsoft pertaining to Call of Duty on PlayStation consoles, it is worth noting that rumors circulating earlier suggested a potential 10-year arrangement. Meanwhile,the completion date for Activision Blizzard’s acquisition by Microsoft is expected as early as this week; however, if not finalized by July 18th,Microsof twill be liable for paying a $3 billion “breakup fee” or alternatively negotiate an extension.
In summary, the agreement between Microsoft and Sony ensures that Call of Duty will continue to be available on PlayStation consoles. This development follows Microsoft’s legal victory against the FTC and ongoing discussions with the United Kingdom’s CMA regarding their acquisition of Activision Blizzard. As gaming enthusiasts eagerly await further details about this deal, it is clear that both companies are committed to providing players with a wide range of gaming options in the future.
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