Microsoft's Activision deal intensifies gaming war with Sony

Xbox maker's acquisition points to subscriptions overtaking consoles

Sony Group has a big rival to square off against now that Microsoft has announced a staggering deal for game developer Activision Blizzard. (Nikkei montage/Reuters)

JADA NAGUMO, Nikkei staff writer

January 20, 2022 17:39 JST

TOKYO -- The announcement of a historic acquisition bid is shaking up the gaming industry, with investors rushing to dissect the possible impact of Microsoft's $69 billion deal for hit game developer Activision Blizzard. So far, one thing is clear: Sony Group will have a bigger rival to take on.

"The competition is fierce!" "Spider-Man now has to carry Sony on its back." "Microsoft is buying its way to the top."