Microsoft – Activision Blizzard Acquisition Faces New Detractors in New Zealand

Xbox may have found a bit of resurgence recently with the success of the Xbox Games Showcase and the Starfield Direct.

However, on the other side, the company has faced rejections with the acquisition of Activision Blizzard, as USA’s FTC and UK’s CMA have concerns with the deal going through.

To add to Xbox’s misery, the acquisition might have another detractor in New Zealand’s Commerce Commission. The competitive regulators in New Zealand recently released a preliminary report, which details some of the concerns it has regarding the deal.

The report (via Game Rant) suggests that the growing cloud gaming sector could be majorly affected with the acquisition, as Xbox will have complete access and control to Activision Blizzard’s content. This can allow the company to withhold content from competitors such as Nvidia, Sony, and more.

The commission also noted that the deal could further decrease competition in games console market, as Xbox can withhold the services of Activision Blizzard to its rivals, especially Sony PlayStation.

The report also points out the growing acceptance the deal has received in various countries. However, it has also acknowledged the opposition the acquisition has faced in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Interested parties can send in further evidence regarding the points raised by the commission until July 4. The regulators have also agreed an extension with Microsoft for the final decision with respect to the deal.

It will be interesting to see if Microsoft can resolve the concerns brought up by New Zealand’s Commerce Commission, or the acquisition could face further dilemma.