Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard brought forth a vast amount of concerns stretching from the video game community to governmental organizations across the world. As regulators within the EU and United States continue to deliberate over Microsoft’s plan, the tech giant continues to push for full approval. Reuters reported that the tech giant plans to offer concessions to hold off objections to its massive deal with Activision Blizzard as the European Commission objection statement deadline in January approaches.
The remedies wouldn’t just be going to the EU regulators. Sony, one of the acquisition’s most outspoken critics, would be receiving remedies as well. The main remedy that Microsoft proposed would be a 10-year licensing deal to Sony for Activision Blizzard properties, as reported by Reuters.
That being said, Microsoft continues to work alongside organizations critical of its deal. According to a Microsoft spokesperson, they understand the concern Sony brought forth with access to popular franchises like Call of Duty being potentially restricted from consoles outside of Xbox. They pushed that they want “…more access to games, not less.”
Stephane Dionnet, a partner with Microsoft at the McDermott Will & Emery law firm commentated on the company’s decision. before such a document is issued could shorten the regulatory process.
“Ultimately, such a move could secure an early clearance with the European Commission and subsequently be used by the parties before other antitrust agencies,” said Dionnet. “However, it remains to be seen whether the active complainants will validate such concessions (in particular in terms of scope) and if behavioral remedies will also be accepted by the CMA and the FTC.”
Outside of the EU, Serbia joins the slowly growing list of countries that approve of the acquisition, including Brazil and Saudi Arabia.