Microsoft’s acquisition of ZeniMax Media for $7.5 billion created big ripples in the gaming-tech industry taking a spot on 3rd number in top 3 most expensive acquisitions. Microsoft surely added a good number of most popular franchises under its wing for Xbox before the release of new generation console. This move will surely boost their portfolio amongst the gamer as the competition is really stiff from PlayStation.
ZeniMax is the Parent company of Bethesda Softworks, name synonyms with great gaming and the publisher of cult classics including Dishonored, Doom, Fallout and Elder Scrolls. Bethesda has spent the last two console generations scooping up various intellectual properties, to the point where its current lineup of software is a murderer’s row of classic, ongoing, and current hits. It will surely boost the appeal of Xbox for the gamers with wider and diverse collection of games under its belt now.
“Bethesda brings an impressive portfolio of games, technology, talent, as well as a track record of blockbuster commercial success,” Microsoft said in statement. The company will pay for the acquisition in cash with the deal expected to close by the mid-2021. The deal comes as Microsoft prepares to release its Xbox Series X in mid-November, its first update to the gaming console since 2013.
“Gaming is the most expansive category in the entertainment industry, as people everywhere turns to gaming to connect, socialize and play with their friends. Bethesda has seen success across every category of games, and together, we will further our ambition to empower the more than three billion gamers worldwide.” said Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella.
The acquisition strengthens the Xbox games portfolio as competition for people’s play time increases and boosts Microsoft’s efforts to be the premier platform for cloud-based gaming. As Bethesda have a variety of games under its name and that too with a cult following, now if gamers want to play those games they have to look out for Xbox. It is most likely that Bethesda games will be Xbox exclusive now and it will give a upper hand to Microsoft in the market.
