FTC Fails to Block Microsoft's Activision Blizzard Deal

Microsoft has achieved another legal triumph over the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in its efforts to acquire Activision Blizzard. The FTC's attempt to halt Microsoft's monumental $69 billion acquisition was rejected by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco, solidifying a deal that was initially announced in late 2022, as reported by Reuters. This decision was made by a three-judge panel, effectively concluding the FTC's challenge to the July 2023 ruling that permitted Microsoft to proceed with the acquisition.

The acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft has been under intense scrutiny for over three years. Early opposition came from certain U.S. Senators, who expressed concerns about the growing consolidation within the tech industry as Microsoft expanded its portfolio. Both competitors and gamers raised alarms over fears that popular franchises like Call of Duty might become exclusive to Microsoft platforms. In response, Microsoft reassured stakeholders that it had no plans to restrict access to key franchises through prolonged exclusivity deals.

Every Video Game Franchise Xbox Owns After Acquiring Activision Blizzard

View 70 ImagesDespite ongoing challenges throughout 2023, Microsoft successfully finalized its purchase of Activision Blizzard in October of that year. The FTC's appeal represented a potential last-minute obstacle to normal operations, but with the appeal now dismissed, the FTC's pursuit appears to have reached its end.

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