Introduction
Microsoft’s highly anticipated acquisition of Activision Blizzard has made waves in the gaming industry. With the deal set to be finalized soon, gamers across various platforms are wondering how this will impact their gaming experience. In this article, we delve into the key facts and implications of this acquisition for gamers on different consoles. Let’s explore the future of gaming under Microsoft’s ownership of Activision Blizzard.
Xbox Console Gamers: Expanding Game Pass Library
For Xbox console gamers, the acquisition will bring a familiar scenario similar to the Bethesda acquisition. Microsoft plans to add a significant portion of Activision Blizzard’s game library to its popular Xbox Game Pass subscription service. This means Xbox gamers can enjoy a vast collection of games from Activision Blizzard by paying a monthly fee of $11 [1].
PC Gamers: Game Pass Access and Battle.net’s Future
PC gamers, who predominantly use Microsoft Windows, can also expect benefits from the acquisition. Those subscribed to the Game Pass subscription will likely gain access to a substantial portion of Activision Blizzard’s games at no extra cost. However, the fate of Battle.net, Activision Blizzard’s marketplace for PC gamers, remains uncertain. It is unclear whether the service will continue independently or merge into the Xbox app for Windows [1].
PlayStation Gamers: Call of Duty Continuity and Exclusive Titles
Microsoft has assured PlayStation gamers that the popular Call of Duty series will continue to be available on Sony consoles for the next ten years. They aim to ensure parity in release dates, content, and features between Xbox and PlayStation versions. However, the future of other titles from Activision Blizzard on PlayStation remains uncertain. Taking cues from the Bethesda acquisition, Microsoft might make some of these games exclusive to Xbox platforms [1].
Nintendo Gamers: Call of Duty on the Switch
Surprisingly, Nintendo gamers might become unexpected beneficiaries of the Microsoft-Activision Blizzard deal. Microsoft has inked a deal to bring future Call of Duty games not only to the Nintendo Switch but also to its rumored successor. This collaboration opens up exciting possibilities for Nintendo console users [1].
The Impact on Gaming Industry and Legacy Titles
With the acquisition, Microsoft also gains ownership of the beloved Crash Bandicoot series, which has been a staple of the PlayStation brand for years. This iconic character and game franchise now come under Microsoft’s umbrella, much like Mario on Nintendo consoles and Sonic the Hedgehog on Sega consoles. This change in ownership could lead to exciting developments for Crash Bandicoot fans [1].
Conclusion
As Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard nears completion, gamers can expect significant changes and opportunities in the gaming landscape. Xbox console gamers will enjoy an expanded Game Pass library, while PC gamers might gain access to Activision Blizzard games through the subscription service. PlayStation gamers can look forward to the continued availability of Call of Duty, although the exclusivity of future titles remains uncertain. Nintendo gamers, on the other hand, have exciting prospects with future Call of Duty releases on the Switch. This acquisition has the potential to reshape the gaming industry and bring forth innovative gaming experiences for all.
