Ubisoft and Microsoft will collaborate to deliver Activision Blizzard games on streaming service Ubisoft+ Multi-Access. Learn more about the reasons behind the agreement, its benefits for the players, and what the CMA thought about the deal.
Ubisoft - Microsoft Deal For Cloud Gaming Rights
Ubisoft Can Access Activision Blizzard Games
A deal that can only be considered a game-changer between Ubisoft and Microsoft has been reached. At the core of this alliance is Ubisoft's purchase of the cloud streaming rights of a prestigious lineup of Activision Blizzard games, including the renowned Call of Duty brand and others. This tactical move may put Ubisoft in a league of its own and creates many new opportunities in the video game streaming industry.
The deal includes all new titles set for release over the next 15 years, after Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard. This vast collection of video games will soon have a new home within the Ubisoft ecosystem.
Ubisoft+ Multi Access Comes Platform Compatibility
Gamers will appreciate the ease of obtaining a wide variety of adored and classic games in addition to the most recent releases through Ubisoft+.
The true magic, however, is in the cross-platform compatibility, allowing users to swap between PC, Xbox consoles, Amazon Luna, and even the PlayStation platform via Ubisoft+ Classics, all with a single subscription to Ubisoft+ Multi-Access. The divide between platforms is disappearing, giving players flexibility like never before.
Cloud gaming, which is frequently hailed as the industry's future, is the focus of this partnership. Players can enjoy a wide variety of content on numerous devices by utilizing the power of the cloud, doing away with hardware restrictions. This opens the door to a more diverse gaming environment where accessibility knows no bounds.
UK Regulatory Authorities To Investigate Microsoft Restructured Deal
This vital collaboration has not been without its difficulties. Regulatory authorities in the United States, the EU, and the United Kingdom have expressed worry about the transaction between Microsoft and Activision Blizzard's influence on gaming competition. This latest move was a direct response to the UK’s worries about cloud gaming competition.
In response, Microsoft underwent considerable restructuring. They have given Ubisoft the cloud gaming rights to all current and future Activision Blizzard PC and console titles for the next 15 years. In exchange, Ubisoft will compensate Microsoft with a one-time payment and a market-based wholesale pricing system. This arrangement also allows Ubisoft to add Activision Blizzard's games to cloud gaming services that use non-Windows operating systems.
In light of Microsoft's restructured arrangement, the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched a new investigative phase. They've set a statutory deadline of October 18th for their verdict. The decision will have far-reaching implications for the gaming industry and competition.
