FTC Fails to Block Microsoft's Activision Blizzard Deal

Microsoft has achieved another significant milestone in its pursuit to acquire Activision Blizzard, overcoming a challenge from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC's appeal to block Microsoft's $69 billion acquisition of the company behind Call of Duty was denied by San Francisco's 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. This decision, made by a three-judge panel, effectively ended the FTC's challenge to the July 2023 decision that had previously allowed Microsoft to move forward with the acquisition, which was originally announced in late 2022 (via Reuters).

The acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft has been under intense scrutiny for over three years. Early opposition came from select U.S. Senators who raised concerns about the ongoing consolidation in the tech industry as Microsoft, the Xbox maker, expanded its portfolio. Both competitors and gamers expressed worries that the acquisition could lead to popular franchises like Call of Duty becoming exclusive to Microsoft platforms. However, Microsoft alleviated these concerns by confirming that 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 was able to complete its purchase of Activision Blizzard in October of that year. The FTC's appeal represented a potential late hurdle, but with its rejection, it appears that the FTC's efforts to block the acquisition have come to an end.

For a detailed timeline of Microsoft's journey to finalize the Activision Blizzard acquisition, you can click here.