Two weeks ago, Microsoft learned it was facing criticism from the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) over its proposed deal to acquire Activision Blizzard for about $69 billion. Now it seems that the FTC isn’t the only group seeking coolness in this blockbuster trade. A private consumer lawsuit filed in California federal court also targets Microsoft.
of 10 gamers sued From California, New Jersey, and New Mexico, “The video game industry could lose substantial competition, and Microsoft will eliminate rivals, limit production, reduce consumer choice, and raise prices.” The lawsuit continues to accuse a lack of competition in the video game industry, and the Activision Blizzard acquisition is just the latest in a long line of anti-consumer Microsoft acquisitions over the past eight years. says no.
The lawsuit points to Microsoft’s past acquisitions of Mojang Studios, Playground Games, Obsidian Entertainment, ZeniMax Media, and Rare Ltd. ‘ alleges the plaintiff. Software developers in the video game industry also said, “There are virtually fewer choices for employers, and Microsoft has enormous market control in hiring and retaining employees in the video game sector, which requires specialized talent.” It is assumed that it may be subject to the adverse effects of “possibly having power.”
If these complaints sound familiar, it’s because they basically reflect comments from the FTC. For example, the FTC also laments that Activision Blizzard remains one of the few independent video game developers in the world, supported by many avid gamers. Microsoft claims it will inevitably reduce the quality of its games, cut off access to competitors such as Sony and Nintendo, raise prices, and change the terms of access to Activision content.
FTC Director of Competition Holly Vedova said on Dec. 8: It is using it to undermine its competition in multiple dynamic and fast-growing gaming markets. “
Microsoft has said many concerns about its proposal to acquire Activision Blizzard are unfounded and is taking steps to address concerns about competition in the video game space.
Brad Smith, vice chair and president of Microsoft, said:
Activision Blizzard’s portfolio is massive and includes some of the most popular IP in the video game industry. Call of Duty, Diablo, Overwatch, StarCraft When world of warcraft.
