Microsoft and Xbox have invested millions of dollars in acquiring major studios over the past few years. Thanks to this, Xbox Game Studios has expanded like never before and is currently one of the industry’s most prominent development forces.
After acquiring Bethesda and Activision Blizzard, many players wonder if Microsoft intends to continue investing in the industry to strengthen Xbox. In a recent interview, Phil Spencer, head of Microsoft Gaming, confirmed that the plan is to buy even more studios in the future.
The executive briefly discussed Microsoft and Xbox’s interests for future investments. However, he urged people to manage their expectations, as there is no imminent acquisition on the horizon; they are still focused on integrating Activision Blizzard.
Microsoft and Xbox to Buy More Studios in the Future
In a recent interview with Bloomberg (via VGC), Spencer discussed Xbox's future growth strategy. He was clear in confirming plans to acquire more companies at some point, though he emphasized that there are no current negotiations, and the next acquisition is a ways off.
So, what type of companies does Xbox Game Studios want to add? Spencer explained that future deals will aim to add “geographic diversity” to the gaming division. For that reason, they are eyeing Asia, a continent with renowned development studios.
They are also interested in adding another studio focused on mobile titles to their gaming division. With the Activision Blizzard acquisition, King’s mobile expertise was a major factor, and they are looking to further strengthen this area of the business.
"We definitely want to be in the market, and when we can find teams and technology and capability that add to what we’re trying to do in gaming at Microsoft, absolutely we will keep our heads up."
They also see China as an important region for future partnerships. Finally, Spencer highlighted that future acquisitions are unlikely to match the scale of Activision Blizzard, one of the biggest acquisitions in the entertainment sector.
“It’s been a good area for us to learn from creative teams that have real unique capability. The real opportunity is to partner with creative teams in China for global,” the executive added.
Microsoft and Xbox Were Interested in Acquiring Multiple Studios
For now, it’s a mystery which companies have piqued Microsoft and Xbox’s interest for a possible acquisition. However, from leaks and official documents, we know the companies had their sights set on Square Enix and SEGA, studios with which they have strengthened ties in recent years.
It is also publicly known that Microsoft once dreamed of acquiring Nintendo, one of the most important companies in the sector. However, it is unlikely to happen, and Spencer himself believes it’s highly complicated since the Mario company has substantial financial resources.
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