FTC Fails to Block Microsoft's Activision Blizzard Acquisition in Appeal

Microsoft has secured another significant victory against the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in its pursuit to finalize the acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The FTC's appeal to block Microsoft's monumental $69 billion deal to acquire the powerhouse behind the Call of Duty franchise was denied by San Francisco's 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. This decision, announced today, marks another milestone in a deal that was originally announced in late 2022, according to Reuters. A three-judge panel made this pivotal ruling, effectively ending the FTC's challenge to the July 2023 decision that allowed Microsoft to move forward with the acquisition.

The journey to secure Activision Blizzard has been fraught with challenges for Microsoft, facing scrutiny for over three years. Early opposition came from select U.S. Senators, who voiced concerns about the consolidation of the tech industry as Microsoft, the maker of Xbox, expanded its portfolio with major acquisitions. Both competitors and gamers raised alarms over the potential for popular franchises like Call of Duty to become exclusive to Microsoft platforms. However, Microsoft reassured the public by stating it had no interest in barring certain franchises behind lengthy exclusivity periods.

Every Video Game Franchise Xbox Owns After Acquiring Activision Blizzard

View 70 ImagesDespite ongoing challenges throughout 2023, Microsoft successfully completed its purchase of Activision Blizzard in October. The FTC's latest appeal could have posed a significant hurdle to normal operations, but with its rejection, the FTC's efforts appear to have reached their conclusion.

For a detailed timeline of Microsoft's challenges in finalizing the Activision Blizzard acquisition, you can click here.