I think people forget that during the mid-90s, Sega was indeed one of the most versatile, and best software developers in the world - Virtua Fighter, Phantasy Star, Nights, Sonic, Crazy Taxi just to name a few. Sega is still a huge name in the arcade business (which is causing their issues).
Again, if Sony or Nintendo bought Sega out, all they'd be getting is semi-weak development teams. But if MS bought them, they'd be getting a new lease on life in Japan - and it would certainly make Japan competitive for Microsoft. Would that be worth $1b? I think so: Microsoft would then have a very competent team of 1st party developers, and own major franchises. MS has had to nearly build up every IP on their own, despite owning Rare and such. MS needs more "bulk" in their 1st party studios. And a buyout of a major Japanese company is just the ticket, IMO.......Expecially a failing company.
Back from the dead, I'm afraid.
