While we wait for Diablo 4, let's delve into a matter that might not be apparent to everyone:
- Sony chose not to finalize a deal, opting instead to attempt to thwart Microsoft's deal.
- The EU proposes that Microsoft should allow all cloud providers to stream their games on their platforms, subject to three conditions:
- Users must still acquire a game license.
- Providers who wish to include the game in their "free-to-play" catalog (like Game Pass or PlayStation Premium+) must still pay for a game license deal.
- Crucially, the game must be compatible with the platforms supported by the cloud provider.
This brings us to another point. If Microsoft's acquisition is successful (which I believe has a 70/80% probability), Microsoft will no longer be obligated to develop new Call of Duty games for the PlayStation platform.
The implication is that if a game is unavailable on, say, PlayStation 6, then it wouldn't be affected by the cloud deal, as Microsoft has no requirement to create a version compatible with the cloud provider's platform.
Sony opted against signing the deal and instead took a more aggressive approach, hoping to hinder the deal. I predict that should Microsoft decide to make Call of Duty exclusives for the next-gen console, PlayStation fans might criticize Microsoft for not upholding their initial promise.
Consider this analogy:
- Microsoft, having a bag of gold, promises to share it with Sony.
- Sony repeatedly attempts to stab Microsoft to obtain the gold.
- After these betrayals, Microsoft decides not to share the gold.
- Then, PlayStation fans express indignation that Microsoft did not follow through on its promise, decrying the corporation.
I have quite a bit of time on my hands, and I find it intriguing that regulators seem to overlook this dynamic. It's bound to make the next generation of consoles interesting, as Microsoft is unlikely to cease producing COD for its competitors - it is still a possibility :D
Last edited by Imaginedvl - on 22 May 2023
