• Loading stock data...
Monday, February 23, 2026

Microsoft Finalizes $69B Acquisition of Activision Blizzard

  • The agreement brings publishers Activision and Blizzard — as well as “Candy Crush Saga” publisher King — under Microsoft’s roof.
  • Microsoft’s pursuit of the deal finally crossed the finish line after beating numerous antitrust concerns from around the globe.
microsoft
Microsoft

The largest acquisition in video game history is finally done.

On Friday, Microsoft announced it completed its $69 billion purchase of Activision Blizzard — a transaction that has been in the works for the better part of two years.

The massive agreement brings publishers Activision and Blizzard — as well as “Candy Crush Saga” publisher King — under the roof of the American computer behemoth. Microsoft intends to bring those company’s titles into its popular Game Pass service.

Microsoft’s pursuit of the deal finally crossed the finish line after beating numerous antitrust concerns from around the globe. The European Union approved the deal in May, while the United Kingdom only rubber-stamped it after Microsoft made revisions to its original proposal.

In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission attempted to block the deal through an injunction, but was ultimately denied in court, opening the doors for Microsoft to move forward. However, the FTC is still pursuing legal action that could unravel the acquisition if successful.

Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick has been criticized for his handling of a workplace misconduct and discrimination lawsuit brought against the company. In an email to employees, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer said that Kotick will remain as Activision Blizzard’s lead through the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition.

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

Louisville’s Miller Moss and several of his teammates stopped by Olympus Gaming Lounge to play EA Sports College Football 26 with fans for a meet and greet. July 11, 2025

Saudis, Silver Lake, Jared Kushner Take EA Private in $55B Deal

Electronic Arts makes “Madden,” “EA Sports College Football,” and more.
The cover of the College Football 25 video game.
exclusive

Group That Facilitated NIL Deal for Football Video Game Now Says It’s..

EA offered $1,500 and no royalties; it also deleted an opt-out clause.
Sponsored

Top Esports Athletes Will Compete for National Glory in the Esports Nations..

The new biennial event, starting in 2026, kicks off a monumental next era for esports.

Everything You Need to Know About EA’s Return to College Basketball Video..

There hasn’t been a college basketball game in more than 15 years.

Featured Today

[Subscription Customers Only] Jul 13, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Chelsea FC midfielder Cole Palmer (10) celebrates winning the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium

Soccer’s ‘Crown Jewels’ Are Devouring Smaller Clubs

Mega conglomerates are feeding a big business machine. Fans are furious.
Feb 10, 2026; Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy; Cory Thiesse and Korey Dropkin of the United States during the curling mixed doubles gold medal game during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium
February 20, 2026

Curling Clubs Are Swept Up in Olympics Fever. Can It Last?

Every four years, organizations field an influx of curling-curious patrons.
Max Valverde by Ron Winsett
February 17, 2026

How Ski Mountaineering’s Hype Man Went From TikTok to NBC

Max Valverde’s gushing over the niche sport vaulted him to Olympic broadcaster.
Feb 11, 2026; Livigno, Italy; Jaelin Kauf of the United States during freestyle skiing women's moguls final during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Livigno Aerials & Moguls Park
February 13, 2026

The Surprise Hit of the Winter Olympics: First-Person Drone Views

Tiny drone cameras have reshaped the Olympics viewing experience.
Team WNBA guard Caitlin Clark dribbles up the court against Team USA during the WNBA All-Star Game at Footprint Center in Phoenix on July 20, 2024.

Ex-NFL Pro, Commanders Exec Says Women’s Sports Is an Undervalued Asset

Jason Wright oversees a fund that has secured $250 million.
Puma store
January 27, 2026

Chinese Sportswear Giant Eyes World Domination With $1.8B Puma Deal

Anta is now the largest shareholder in both Puma and Amer Sports.
January 28, 2026

CVC’s New Sports Business Buys Into $300M Equestrian Company

Global Sport Group bought a controlling stake in Equine Network.
Sponsored

A Head Start on History: Early Access to Olympic Hospitality for the..

From private suites to curated experiences, On Location is redefining how fans and brands show up at LA28.
Jan 24, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd motions to his team during the first quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at the American Airlines Center.
January 27, 2026

Jason Kidd Takes Board Role, Equity Stake in Youth Sports Company

The Mavericks coach is an equity holder and member of the board.
Contestants compete in the annual Nathan's hot dog eating contest at Tootsie's 57th Anniversary Birthday Bash on Lower Broadway in Nashville on Oct. 10, 2017.
January 22, 2026

Nathan’s Hot Dog Contest Will Continue Under New Chinese Ownership

Nathan’s expects to keep the contest at Coney Island.
Batbox
January 12, 2026

Bowling’s Blueprint Is Powering the New Social Gaming Boom

New venues are fusing sports, entertainment, and good food.
Sep 27, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Minnesota Twins pitcher Kody Funderburk (55) and catch
December 17, 2025

Twins’ New Investments Value Club at $1.75 Billion

The Twins have also announced a succession plan.