As Microsoft continues to pursue its acquisition of gaming publisher Activision Blizzard, Xbox boss Phil Spencer recently made a bold statement in an interview, stating that the Xbox brand can survive even without the “Call of Duty” publisher.
Although the acquisition would be a significant investment, it is not the determining factor for the future of Microsoft’s games division.
Spencer’s comments come as regulators review the potential acquisition and consider its impact on market competitiveness. Sony, for example, has expressed concerns over the “irreplaceable” nature of the “Call of Duty” series.
Despite these concerns, Spencer believes that competition in the console market is healthy and can benefit consumers by offering more choices. He also expressed skepticism that regulators fully understand the gaming industry.
“Competition means we’re trying to get stronger. I don’t have any great arguments that more console competition is in any way detrimental to consumers,” Spencer stated. “For most of my career at Xbox, when I’ve been meeting with state regulators, there has been a real lack of knowledge about the gaming industry. […] I think for many of the regulators it is the first time they are dealing with this industry.”
As Microsoft awaits approval for the acquisition, Spencer’s confidence in Xbox’s future beyond Activision Blizzard offers reassurance to fans and investors alike.
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