What franchises does Xbox own now?

What Franchises Does Xbox Own Now?

Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard has added a plethora of iconic franchises to its portfolio. But what exactly does Xbox own now? Let’s break it down.

Key Acquisitions

In June 2022, Microsoft completed its $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, one of the most significant deals in the history of the gaming industry. This acquisition has brought under Microsoft’s umbrella some of the most beloved gaming franchises, including:

• Call of Duty: This iconic first-person shooter series has been a staple of the gaming industry for decades, with over 500 million copies sold worldwide.

• Overwatch: Blizzard’s team-based multiplayer shooter has gained a loyal following since its release in 2016.

• World of Warcraft: One of the most successful MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games) of all time, World of Warcraft has over 100 million registered accounts worldwide.

• Diablo: This action RPG (Role-Playing Game) series has been a cornerstone of Blizzard’s portfolio for over two decades.

• Crash Bandicoot: This classic platformer series has been reinvigorated in recent years with the release of new titles and remastered classics.

• StarCraft: This real-time strategy series has been a staple of Blizzard’s competitive gaming scene for years, with a dedicated fan base worldwide.

Other Assets

In addition to the above-mentioned franchises, Microsoft has also acquired the following assets:

• Blizzard’s esports arm: Microsoft has gained access to Blizzard’s extensive esports infrastructure, including the World of Warcraft Arena World Championship and the Overwatch League.

• Blizzard’s development studios: Microsoft now owns several development studios under the Blizzard umbrella, including Blizzard Entertainment, Vicarious Visions, and High Moon Studios.

• King Digital Entertainment: Acquired by Activision in 2016, King is the developer of Candy Crush Saga and other popular mobile games.

No Longer Owned by Microsoft

In a surprising twist, Microsoft has sold off its stake in Sega, the legendary Japanese video game developer and publisher, in 2001.

Bill Gates’ Shares

Despite no longer having a direct stake in Sega, Bill Gates, Microsoft’s co-founder, still owns a significant portion of the company’s shares through his investment firm, Cascade Investments.

Conclusion

Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard has significantly bolstered its gaming portfolio, adding some of the most iconic franchises in the industry to its roster. While the company has sold off its stake in Sega, it still maintains a diverse range of gaming assets, including development studios and esports infrastructure. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how Microsoft harnesses its new assets to shape the future of gaming.