As technology advances so rapidly the ways of playing games also change in a much faster pace. These days people can play games with just about anyone sitting anywhere on the planet through their digital devices. The use of technology for entertainment has made the gaming industry boom. As per various estimates, the annual revenue of the gaming industry may cross $200 billion by 2021. Microsoft on Monday announced that it would acquire ZeniMax Media and its publisher Bethesda Softworks. And as per the agreement terms, Microsoft will pay $7.5 billion in cash to ZeniMax Media.
Microsoft Will Acquire Multiple Studios
As per Microsoft, the company will acquire multiple publishing offices and development studios that span all over the globe. These include Bethesda Softworks, Bethesda Game Studios, ZeniMax Online Studios, id Software, Machine Games, Alpha Dog, Arkane, Roundhouse Studios, and Tango Gameworks. However, the company has not outlined specific current or future game projects from each studio.
Microsoft currently has thirteen creative studio teams, but with the addition of Bethesda, it will now grow from 15 to 23 creative studio teams, an increase of eight new studios. The company is planning to add the iconic franchises of Bethesda to the Xbox Game Pass.
Microsoft Bethesda Acquisition Date
According to Microsoft, the transaction is subject to the completion of regulatory review and other customary closing conditions. Because of this, it cannot finalize the deal this year. However, Microsoft says that it may complete the acquisition process in the second half of the next fiscal year, i.e., 2021.
Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft Corporation said, “Gaming is the most expansive category in the entertainment industry, as people everywhere turn to gaming to connect, socialize and play with their friends.” While complimenting the success of Bethesda across every category of games, he said that they both would further their ambition to empower the three billion gamers worldwide.
If we have to believe Microsoft, there are more than three billion gamers worldwide. The Bethesda acquisition will add up to the Microsoft’s business significantly.
