European Commission approves Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard with conditions

The European Commission has given approval for Microsoft's proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard, subject to Microsoft adhering to certain conditions.

The Commission based its decision on evidence gathered from extensive research and feedback from game developers, distributors, and cloud game streaming platforms within the EU. The Commission found that Microsoft's acquisition of Activision could harm competition in the distribution of PC and console video games via cloud game streaming services, and in the supply of PC operating systems.

To address these concerns, Microsoft offered a licensing agreement that would allow consumers and cloud game streaming providers in the EU to stream Activision's PC and console games via any cloud gaming service of their choice. This license will be free and will last for ten years.

The Commission found that this agreement would resolve any competition concerns and would benefit competition and consumers in the EU by bringing Activision's games to more platforms and devices.