Yearly Archives: 2025

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, PC

GeForce NOW Native App Arrives on Steam Deck

The Steam Deck has revolutionized handheld gaming, offering PC-level performance in a portable form factor. Now, with the arrival of NVIDIA’s native GeForce NOW app, the device is unlocking even greater potential. This new integration allows Steam Deck users to stream over 2,200 games at up to 4K resolution and 60FPS, bringing high-end gaming experiences to a device that was previously limited by hardware constraints.

What Does the GeForce NOW App Bring to Steam Deck?

Previously, Steam Deck users could access GeForce NOW through a browser, but the experience was far from seamless. The new native app eliminates the need for workarounds, offering direct access to cloud gaming from SteamOS. Here’s what makes this integration exciting:

  • Expanded Game Library – Users can stream titles from Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass for PC, Ubisoft, Battle.net, and more.
  • Enhanced Graphics – The app supports HDR, DLSS 4, and NVIDIA Reflex, ensuring smoother gameplay and improved visuals.
  • Battery Life Boost – Since games are streamed rather than run locally, Steam Deck users can expect up to 50% longer battery life compared to native gaming.
  • Big-Screen Gaming – The Steam Deck can be docked to a TV, allowing users to play high-end titles on a larger display.

The Steam Deck is a powerful handheld, but it has limitations when running graphically demanding games. With GeForce NOW, users can play AAA titles like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, Monster Hunter Wilds, and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 at max settings without worrying about hardware limitations.

Additionally, the GeForce NOW Ultimate membership provides performance equivalent to an RTX 4080 GPU, meaning Steam Deck users can experience cutting-edge gaming without upgrading their hardware.

How to Get Started

Installing the GeForce NOW app on Steam Deck is straightforward:

  1. Switch to Desktop Mode – Open SteamOS and enter desktop mode.
  2. Download the App – Visit NVIDIA’s official site and download the Steam Deck version of GeForce NOW.
  3. Install & Launch – Follow the installation steps, then access the app from SteamOS.

For those unsure about committing to a paid plan, GeForce NOW offers a free tier, though it comes with limitations such as longer queue times and one-hour session limits.

The arrival of GeForce NOW’s native app on Steam Deck is a game-changer. It transforms the handheld into a cloud gaming powerhouse, allowing users to play high-end titles without worrying about performance bottlenecks. Whether you’re looking to extend battery life, access a broader game library, or experience RTX-powered gaming, this integration is a massive win for Steam Deck owners.

RTX on Deck: The GeForce NOW Native App for Steam Deck Is Here
The first GeForce NOW native app for Steam Deck is here. Stream it with the 6 new games available this week.
Source/Via
Business, Games, Gaming, News

CD Projekt Red Confirms Cyberpunk Sequel Has Entered Pre-Production

CD Projekt Red has officially confirmed during its Q1 2025 earnings call that the highly anticipated Cyberpunk 2077 sequel has entered pre-production. This marks a significant milestone for the studio as it moves forward with its next major project following the success of Cyberpunk 2077 and its expansion, Phantom Liberty.

According to CD Projekt Red, 96 developers are currently working on the Cyberpunk sequel. While this number is expected to grow as the project advances, the majority of the studio’s workforce—422 developers—remains focused on The Witcher 4, another major title in development. Other projects, such as Project Sirius and Project Hadar, also have dedicated teams working on them.

The studio has not provided a timeline for the sequel’s release, but given the complexity of AAA game development, it could take several years before the game enters full production.

Financial Performance

CD Projekt Red’s Q1 2025 financial report highlights the company’s revenue and profitability. Here are some key figures:

  • Total sales revenue: 226.3 million PLN (~$57.3 million USD)
  • Net profit: 86 million PLN (~$21.8 million USD)
  • Revenue from The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: 2.4 billion PLN (~$64 million USD)
  • Sales of Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty: Over 10 million copies sold

Despite a 14% decline in net profit compared to Q1 2024, CD Projekt Red remains financially strong, with continued revenue from its existing titles and expansions.

While details about the Cyberpunk sequel remain scarce, CD Projekt Red has hinted at ambitious plans for the game. Reports suggest that the sequel’s city will feel like “Chicago Gone Wrong”, and the developers are working on the most realistic and reactive crowd system yet.

Fans will have to wait for further updates, but with pre-production now underway, the future of the Cyberpunk franchise looks promising.

CD PROJEKT wraps up the beginning of 2025 – CD PROJEKT
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, which is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its release this May, has sold over 60 million copies Total sales of Phantom Liberty – the Cyberpunk 2077 expansion – have surpassed
Source/Via
Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Black Panther original game canned as Electronic Arts folds developer studio

In a surprising turn of events, Electronic Arts (EA) has officially canceled its highly anticipated Black Panther game and shut down Cliffhanger Games, the studio responsible for its development. This decision has left fans and developers alike mourning the loss of what could have been a groundbreaking addition to the Marvel gaming universe.

Originally announced in 2023, EA’s Black Panther game was set to be a single-player, open-world action-adventure experience, developed in collaboration with Marvel Games. The game aimed to immerse players in the world of Wakanda, allowing them to step into the shoes of its legendary protector.

However, new details have emerged revealing that the game’s protagonist would not have been T’Challa himself, but rather his son, Azari. The story was reportedly set to begin with Azari engaging in ritual combat against T’Challa, only for the battle to be interrupted by an invasion of Skrulls, who would ultimately kidnap T’Challa. This narrative twist promised a fresh take on the Black Panther legacy, introducing new characters and conflicts that could have expanded the Marvel gaming universe in exciting ways.

Why Was It Canceled?

The cancellation of Black Panther appears to be part of a broader restructuring within EA. The company has been making significant cutbacks, including layoffs across multiple departments. EA Entertainment president Laura Miele stated that the decision was made to “sharpen our focus and put our creative energy behind the most significant growth opportunities”.

Despite the cancellation, EA’s multi-title partnership with Marvel remains intact, with other projects—such as an Iron Man game—still in development. However, the loss of Black Panther has raised concerns about EA’s commitment to licensed IPs, as the company has been shifting its focus toward core franchises like Battlefield, The Sims, and Apex Legends.

The closure of Cliffhanger Games has left many developers heartbroken, with several expressing their disappointment on social media. Concept artist Karla Ortiz described the game as “detailed, rich, beautiful”, lamenting that the world would never get to see it. Game design director Sophie Mallinson praised her colleagues, calling them a “dream team” and urging other studios to “snap up anyone who was working on this project”.

What’s Next for Black Panther in Gaming?

While EA’s Black Panther project has been scrapped, fans of the character still have something to look forward to. Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, an upcoming game from Skydance New Media, will feature Black Panther and Captain America as playable characters. This project, led by industry veteran Amy Hennig, promises to bring a fresh perspective to the Marvel gaming landscape.

The cancellation of EA’s Black Panther game is a major loss for both Marvel fans and the gaming industry. The prospect of playing as Azari, battling Skrulls, and exploring Wakanda in an open-world setting was an exciting vision that will now remain unrealized. While EA continues to focus on its core franchises, the hope remains that Black Panther will one day receive the definitive gaming experience it deserves.

EA Cancels Black Panther Game, Closes Cliffhanger Games – IGN
Electronic Arts is canceling its planned Black Panther game and shutting down developer Cliffhanger Games, IGN has learned.
Source/Via
Business, Games, Gaming, News

Apple reportedly making a dedicaded Gaming App: A Game-Changer or Just Another Attempt?

Apple is making a bold move into gaming with its upcoming dedicated gaming app, set to launch across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV later this year. This new app will replace Game Center, centralizing game discovery, achievements, leaderboards, and player communication while promoting Apple Arcade. But how does this compare to past and present cloud gaming services like Google Stadia, Xbox Game Pass Cloud, Amazon Luna, and Blacknut? Let’s break it down.

Apple’s Gaming App: What We Know So Far

According to Bloomberg, Apple’s new gaming hub will be preinstalled on all compatible devices and will integrate with the App Store’s existing game catalog. The app aims to boost engagement, spotlight premium titles, and potentially increase Apple’s revenue from gaming, which already accounts for a significant portion of its App Store earnings. Apple has even acquired RAC7 Games, the studio behind Sneaky Sasquatch, signaling a stronger commitment to exclusive content.

Comparing Apple’s Gaming App to Cloud Gaming Services

Apple’s approach differs significantly from cloud gaming platforms like Google Stadia, Xbox Game Pass Cloud, Amazon Luna, and Blacknut. Here’s how:

1. Google Stadia: The Failed Experiment

Google Stadia was an ambitious attempt to revolutionize gaming by offering cloud-based streaming without the need for powerful hardware. However, it struggled due to:

  • High latency issues affecting gameplay.
  • Limited game library compared to traditional consoles.
  • Lack of developer support, leading to its shutdown in 2023.

Apple’s gaming app, in contrast, is not a cloud gaming service but rather a centralized hub for games already installed on Apple devices. This means no streaming, but a more curated experience.

2. Xbox Game Pass Cloud: The Gold Standard

Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Cloud allows users to stream AAA games on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and PCs. It thrives due to:

  • A massive game library featuring top-tier titles.
  • Cross-platform accessibility, making gaming seamless.
  • Strong developer partnerships, ensuring continuous content updates.

Apple’s gaming app lacks cloud streaming, meaning users must download games rather than stream them instantly. However, Apple’s tight ecosystem could make game discovery and engagement more seamless.

3. Amazon Luna: A Niche Competitor

Amazon Luna offers cloud gaming with a subscription-based model, focusing on channel-based access to different game libraries. While it has some advantages, it faces:

  • Limited game selection compared to Xbox Game Pass.
  • Dependence on Amazon’s ecosystem, restricting flexibility.

Apple’s gaming app could outperform Luna by leveraging its existing App Store infrastructure and Apple Arcade’s curated selection.

4. Blacknut: The Underdog

Blacknut is a lesser-known cloud gaming service targeting casual gamers with a family-friendly subscription model. While it offers affordable access, it lacks:

  • AAA titles, making it less appealing to hardcore gamers.
  • Strong brand recognition, limiting its reach.

Apple’s gaming app, with its exclusive content and premium titles, could attract a broader audience than Blacknut.

The Irony: Apple’s History of Blocking Competitors

Apple’s move into gaming comes with a layer of irony, considering its past treatment of Google and Microsoft in the gaming space. Apple has historically restricted cloud gaming services on iOS, making it difficult for competitors to thrive.

  • Microsoft’s Struggles with xCloud: Apple blocked Microsoft’s xCloud gaming service from launching on the App Store, forcing Microsoft to offer it via a web browser instead. Apple’s strict App Store policies prevented Microsoft from providing a seamless experience for Xbox Game Pass users.
  • Google Stadia’s Limited Presence: Google Stadia also faced challenges on iOS, as Apple’s policies made it difficult for cloud gaming apps to operate freely. Stadia had to rely on a web-based workaround, similar to Microsoft’s xCloud.
  • Microsoft’s Mobile Store Blocked: Microsoft had plans to launch an Xbox mobile store, but Apple stymied its efforts by enforcing restrictive policies that made it economically unfeasible.

Now, Apple is launching its own gaming app, seemingly embracing the very industry it once hindered. This move raises questions about Apple’s control over gaming distribution and whether regulators will scrutinize its monopoly-like behavior.

Final Thoughts: Apple’s Strengths and Weaknesses

Apple’s new gaming app is not a direct competitor to cloud gaming services but rather an enhanced gaming hub for its ecosystem. While it lacks cloud streaming, it benefits from: Seamless integration with Apple devices, Exclusive content through acquisitions like RAC7 Games and curated experience that could boost engagement.

However, it faces challenges:
❌ No cloud gaming, limiting instant access to games.
❌ Apple’s gaming reputation, which still lags behind Microsoft and Sony
❌ Regulatory scrutiny, as Apple’s control over gaming distribution could spark antitrust concerns.

Will Apple’s gaming app redefine gaming on its devices, or will it be another Game Center 2.0? Only time will tell. But one thing is clear—Apple is serious about gaming, and this move could be a game-changer for casual and mobile gamers alike.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

There’s life with WRC gaming after surprising dismissal of Electronic Arts

WRC has officially announced that NACON will be the new publisher for its video games starting in 2027. This agreement grants NACON exclusive rights to develop and publish official WRC games and eSports competitions for PC and consoles for six seasons, running through 2032.

As part of this partnership, NACON will begin developing an entirely new WRC game series, aiming to deliver an immersive experience that accurately reflects the championship and meets the expectations of both rally enthusiasts and new players. The games will feature official rallies, vehicles, teams, drivers, and sponsors, marking a complete reboot of the franchise with a fresh vision.

Alain Falc, CEO of NACON, expressed excitement about renewing the collaboration, stating that the company has gained solid expertise in translating rallying into a video game experience through its previous work with WRC between 2015 and 2023. FIA World Rally Championship’s Chief Marketing Officer, Arne Dirks, also praised NACON’s vision for the franchise and its ability to deliver great rally games.

The agreement covers the development and publishing of the official WRC games and eSports competitions, granting NACON exclusive rights for PC and consoles for six seasons, from 2027 through 2032.

As part of this strategic partnership, NACON will begin development of an all-new WRC game series, aiming to deliver an immersive experience that faithfully reflects the reality of the championship and meets the expectations of both rally enthusiasts and new players. The games will feature the official rallies, vehicles, teams, drivers, and sponsors among the many anticipated content elements. This project represents a complete reboot of the franchise, based on an entirely fresh vision, and marks an ambitious new chapter in the brand’s development.

“We are thrilled to renew our collaboration with WRC Promoter. This iconic license provides an exceptional playground to build a highly refined driving experience that lives up to the expectations of rally fans,” said Alain Falc, CEO of NACON. “Between 2015 and 2023, we had the opportunity to work closely with the championship’s official teams and many drivers, allowing us to gain solid and unique expertise in translating rallying into a video game experience. This new venture marks a major milestone: a fully reimagined project driven by a passionate and specialized team, with a clear ambition to elevate rally games to new heights.”

“After a comprehensive evaluation, we are delighted to have reached an agreement with NACON,” expressed FIA World Rally Championship’s Chief Marketing Officer Arne Dirks. “Their vision for the franchise stands out, and their expertise in delivering great rally games is unquestioned. We look forward to breaking new ground together in this collaboration, to truly turn the WRC games into epic adventures and offer gaming experiences beyond rally as we know it today.”

This announcement signals a major shift for WRC games, as NACON takes over from Codemasters, which previously held the license. The new direction promises to elevate rally gaming to new heights, offering players an experience beyond traditional rally simulations.

Featured, Games, Gaming, News

It is a ‘Finishing’ time for Mortal Kombat 1?

For Mortal Kombat fans, the journey through the brutal and cinematic world of Mortal Kombat 1 has been an exciting ride. However, NetherRealm Studios has officially confirmed that the Definitive Edition marks the end of new content support for the game. While balance patches and technical fixes will continue, players should not expect additional DLC characters or story expansions moving forward.

A Shorter Lifespan Than Expected

Mortal Kombat 1 launched with high expectations, introducing a fresh timeline and new character dynamics. Despite selling 5 million copies globally, it did not reach the commercial heights of its predecessor, Mortal Kombat 11, which surpassed 15 million units. The decision to end content support comes one year and eight months after the game’s release—significantly shorter than the two years and three months of support given to Mortal Kombat 11.

The last major content update for Mortal Kombat 1 arrived in March 2025, introducing the T-1000 as a guest character. Shortly after, NetherRealm released the Definitive Edition, bundling all previous DLC, including the Khaos Reigns expansion, Kombat Packs, and additional skins. This move signaled the end of active development, much like the studio’s approach to Mortal Kombat 11 in July 2021.

Fans have expressed mixed emotions about the announcement. Some feel disappointed, especially after Ed Boon’s assurances in September 2024 that NetherRealm remained committed to long-term support. The abrupt shift has led to debates within the community, with many revisiting Boon’s earlier statements and questioning the studio’s direction.

What’s Next for NetherRealm?

With Mortal Kombat 1 now considered content complete, NetherRealm Studios is shifting focus to its next project. While the studio has not officially revealed its next game, speculation is rampant. Many believe Injustice 3 could be in development, following NetherRealm’s alternating pattern between Mortal Kombat and Injustice titles. Warner Bros. Discovery has also reaffirmed its commitment to the Mortal Kombat franchise, ensuring that the brand remains a priority in gaming and entertainment.

The Legacy of Mortal Kombat 1

Despite its shorter-than-expected lifespan, Mortal Kombat 1 introduced 34 playable fighters and 21 Kameo Fighters, along with a revamped timeline that reimagined character relationships. While the competitive scene saw some struggles, including lower registration numbers at Evo 2024 and Evo 2025, the game still carved out a unique place in the franchise’s history.

As NetherRealm Studios moves forward, fans eagerly await news of the next big project. Whether it’s Injustice 3, a direct Mortal Kombat sequel, or an entirely new IP, the studio’s next move will undoubtedly shape the future of fighting games.

eSport, Events, Gaming, News

LA Thieves close the last Major Call Of Duty League tournament with a second win in a row

The LA Thieves have once again proven their dominance in the Call of Duty League (CDL), securing victory at the final Major IV of the 2025 season at DreamHack Dallas. This win cements their place as the top seed heading into the CDL Championship Weekend, set to take place in Kitchener, Canada next month.

The journey to the championship was anything but easy. Early in the tournament, the Miami Heretics sent the Thieves into the lower bracket, setting the stage for an intense comeback. The Thieves fought their way back, eliminating Toronto Ultra and OpTic Texas, before getting their revenge against Miami in a decisive 3-0 victory.

In the Grand Finals, the Thieves faced off against Atlanta FaZe, a team known for its resilience and skill. The match was a rollercoaster, with the Thieves taking an early 2-0 lead, only for FaZe to mount a comeback and even the series at 2-2. However, the Thieves regained control, dominating the final two maps to secure a 4-2 series win.

Key Moments & Rivalries

One of the most talked-about moments of the tournament was the heated rivalry between Scrap and SupeR, two of the most outspoken players in the CDL. Their intense exchanges throughout the event added an extra layer of drama, culminating in a fiery showdown when the Thieves eliminated Miami.

Looking Ahead to CDL Champs

With this victory, the LA Thieves enter Championship Weekend with 540 CDL Points, ahead of second-place Atlanta FaZe with 505 points. The top eight teams will battle it out for the ultimate prize, and given the Thieves’ momentum, they are undoubtedly the favorites heading into the final showdown.

eSport, Events, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

HCS Dallas Open: OpTic Gaming’s second win in a row for the HCS Opens at 2025

The Halo Championship Series (HCS) continues to be a battleground for the best Halo players in the world, and the HCS Dallas Open was no exception. OpTic Gaming emerged victorious, solidifying their dominance in the competitive Halo scene. Their performance was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing strategic gameplay, precise shooting, and unmatched teamwork.

OpTic Gaming’s Victory at HCS Dallas Open

OpTic Gaming’s journey to the top was marked by intense matches against formidable opponents. Their ability to adapt to different playstyles and execute flawless strategies set them apart. Some key highlights from their performance include:

  • Clutch Plays: OpTic Gaming’s players delivered incredible moments, turning the tide of matches with well-timed power weapon grabs and coordinated team pushes.
  • Strategic Map Control: Their ability to dominate key areas of the map ensured they maintained control over objectives and dictated the pace of the game.
  • Individual Brilliance: Players like Lucid and Trippy showcased their mechanical skills, landing crucial kills and making game-changing plays.

Basically, the tournament was a comfortable one for OpTic Gaming as they beat Shopify Rebellion and TSM without a single map loss and FaZe Clan where the ones to beat in the grand final.

With a successful force of a reset after scoring of 4-1 and a laser-focus gameplay, they manage to have a perfect 4-0 after reset and nailing the HCS Open Dallas 2025 Trophy.

Next stop for HCS is HCS Major Salt Lake City 2025 at August 1st’s weekend and preceded respectively by HCS Open & Qualifier between Jun and July

eSport, Events, Games, Gaming, News

Here’s how the weekend of Combo Breaker 2025 went

Combo Breaker 2025 has wrapped up, and what a spectacle it was! Held from May 23 to May 25 in Schaumburg, Illinois, this year’s event marked the 10th anniversary of the beloved fighting game tournament. With 24 games featured, including Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, and Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, the competition was fierce, and the surprises were plenty.

Major Tournament Results & Highlights

Street Fighter 6

  • Champion: Leshar (Ed, Mai, Terry) – Dominated the tournament, securing a 3-2 victory over Itabashi Zangief in the grand finals.
  • Runner-up: Itabashi Zangief (Zangief) – A veteran of the scene, fought hard but couldn’t overcome Leshar’s relentless offense.
  • Notable Moments: Blaz vs. DualKevin was a nail-biter, and Bonchan struggled against Leshar, proving how strong Ed has become in competitive play.

Tekken 8

  • Champion: Mulgold (Claudio) – Earned 560 points toward the Tekken World Cup after defeating ATIF and Knee in a thrilling final.
  • Runner-up: ATIF – Showed incredible skill but fell short against Mulgold’s calculated gameplay.
  • Big Reveal: Armor King was announced as the next Season 2 DLC character, alongside a July 10 release date for Fahkumram.

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves

  • Champion: GO1 – Won 12 straight rounds, proving his mastery across multiple fighting games.
  • Runner-up: Reynald – A legendary SNK player, but couldn’t stop GO1’s momentum.
  • Esports Debut: This was the first major tournament for Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, and it did not disappoint.

Mortal Kombat 1

  • Champion: SonicFox (Cyrax) – Finally broke their losing streak at Combo Breaker.
  • Notable Matches: Rewind vs. VideoGamezYo was a highlight, featuring fast-paced attacks and Kameo switches.
  • DLC Characters in Action: Homelander and T-1000 made appearances in the Top 8, adding an unexpected twist to the competition.

Other Major Tournament Results & Highlights

Guilty Gear Strive

  • Champion: UMISHO (Happy Chaos) – Secured victory with a 3-1 comeback in grand finals.
  • Runner-up: Jack (Sol Badguy) – Showed incredible skill but couldn’t hold off UMISHO’s relentless zoning.
  • Notable Moment: UMISHO’s win earned her a spot at the 2025/26 ARC World Tour Finals.

Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising

  • Champion: Xerom (Charlotta) – Dominated the finals with a clean sweep.
  • Runner-up: Zane – Struggled against Charlotta’s aggressive playstyle.
  • Esports Impact: This win secured Xerom a spot at the 2025/26 ARC World Tour Finals.

Under Night In-Birth II [Sys:Celes]

  • Champion: BigBlack – Defended his title with a 3-1 reset victory.
  • Runner-up: Knotts – Put up a strong fight but couldn’t stop BigBlack’s momentum.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

  • Champion: ATATA – 3-1 victory.
  • Runner-up: Ikan.

Exciting Announcements

  • Tekken 8 DLC: Armor King joins the roster in Season 2, with Fahkumram arriving on July 10.
  • Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves: Andy Bogard was revealed as a playable character.
  • Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising: Galleon was confirmed as the next DLC character, with a showcase happening right after the event.
  • Guilty Gear Strive: Unika was revealed as a new playable character, with a gameplay trailer shown during the event

Combo Breaker 2025 was a thrilling celebration of fighting games, packed with intense matches, shocking upsets, and exciting reveals. Whether you’re a hardcore competitor or a casual fan, this year’s event had something for everyone. With new DLC characters, legendary players, and unforgettable moments, Combo Breaker continues to be a cornerstone of the fighting game community.

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Now the ‘Game Over’ is official for the FTC about the Activision Blizzard King acquisition injunction

After almost 3 years and a half of legal battles, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has officially dropped its case against Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, marking the end of one of the most significant regulatory challenges in gaming history.

The deal, valued at $69 billion, was finalized in October 2023, but the FTC continued to push back, arguing that Microsoft’s control over Activision Blizzard could harm competition in the gaming industry.

A Long Legal Battle Comes to an End

The FTC initially sought to block the acquisition, fearing that Microsoft would use its ownership of Activision Blizzard to limit access to major franchises like Call of Duty for rival platforms. However, courts repeatedly ruled against the FTC, with the latest appeal being rejected earlier this month. With no legal avenues left, the FTC officially dismissed its complaint, stating that continuing the fight was not in the public interest.

Microsoft President Brad Smith welcomed the decision, calling it a victory for players and common sense in Washington, D.C.. Since acquiring Activision Blizzard, Microsoft has continued to release Call of Duty titles on PlayStation and has even expanded its portfolio by bringing former Xbox exclusives to Sony’s platform. This move suggests that Microsoft is prioritizing accessibility and revenue over exclusivity.

Despite the acquisition boosting Microsoft’s earnings, it has also led to significant layoffs within Activision Blizzard, raising concerns about corporate restructuring and job security in the gaming industry. Additionally, Microsoft has made changes to its Game Pass subscription service, including price increases, which some critics argue could be a consequence of the massive acquisition.

What’s Next for Microsoft and Activision Blizzard?

With the FTC officially stepping aside, Microsoft can now fully integrate Activision Blizzard into its gaming ecosystem. This could mean:

  • More Activision Blizzard titles appearing on Xbox Game Pass.
  • Potential new exclusive content for Xbox and PC.
  • Further expansion into cloud gaming, leveraging Activision Blizzard’s franchises.

While the regulatory battle is over, the gaming industry will be watching closely to see how Microsoft handles its newfound power. Will it continue to support multi-platform releases, or will it eventually shift towards exclusivity? Only time will tell.