Microsoft's own experience with releasing AAA games reflects the cost and time to develop such content. Halo Infinite, a recent title from the Microsoft's first-party Halo franchise, was in production for {REDACTED} years, and cost almost {REDACTED} million. Other AAA games may take even longer to develop. For instance, according to one Microsoft executive {REDACTED}, a forthcoming title from the {REDACTED} franchise, may take a {REDACTED} to develop.
Un-redact that shit. Also, that "title from the ? franchise" has to be Elder Scrolls, Lol.
Microsoft produces its own first-party video game titles. Microsoft has acquired over ten third-party studios and their titles in recent years to expand its offerings. Microsoft has frequently made those acquired titles exclusive to its own consoles and/or subscription services, eliminating the opportunity for consumers to play those titles on rival products or services. By taking games exclusive, Microsoft strengthens the position of its console and subscription service products relative to competitors.
C'mon man, seriously? Lol. Can they not make anything exclusive now?
“Notice is hereby given to the Respondents that the second day of August, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., is hereby fixed as the time, and the Federal Trade Commission offices at 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Room 532, Washington, D.C. 20580, as the place, when and where an evidentiary hearing will be had before an Administrative Law Judge of the Federal Trade Commission, on the charges set forth in this complaint, at which time and place you will have the right under the Federal Trade Commission Act and the Clayton Act to appear and show cause why an order should not be entered requiring you to cease and desist from the violations of law charged in the complaint.”
This whole thing isn't set to start until August 2023. They're definitely either hoping another regulator blocks or delaying it enough to make Microsoft abandon the deal.
I. High-Performance Consoles are a Relevant Product Market
63. High-Performance Consoles are a Relevant Market for evaluating the likely competitive effects of the Proposed Acquisition.
64. The only High-Performance Consoles offered for sale today are the most recent generation of Microsoft Xbox and Sony PlayStation consoles—the Xbox Series X|S and the PS5. The Xbox Series X|S and PS5 are therefore included within the Relevant Market.
65. The third major gaming console available today, the Nintendo Switch, is highly differentiated from the Xbox and PlayStation consoles in significant ways. The Nintendo Switch, therefore, is not included in the Relevant Market.
This is so stupid...Lol. Guess they're ignoring PC as well. Just want to make this about Xbox/PS which plays into Sony's hands.
Essay Pro