The battle for content, owning some sliver of backend technology, heated up in recent weeks. Microsoft buying Activision Blizzard for $68.7 Billion; Sony buying Bungie for $3.6 Billion. Nintendo continuing to march to the beat of the Switch drum.
Over in the theme park industry, Cedar Fair is reviewing a takeover bid from SeaWorld. Just to review, Cedar Fair owns Cedar Point, Knott’s Berry Farm, and countless other theme parks. SeaWorld’s takeover of Cedar Fair would be huge! The problem is amount of money that SeaWorld has put on the table for Cedar Fair is considered low ($3.4 Billion).
Where I am going with the above? The COVID thaw is upon us. With companies looking to consolidate, strengthen, and diversify their holdings. I find it fascinating that both Microsoft and Sony made big studio purchases in a week’s time (with rumors they are just getting started). What I find troubling, especially from the viewpoint of someone who plays video games, is what do the buyouts mean? Does it mean that content made by Activision Blizzard is exclusive to Microsoft? So far, Activision Blizzard has said that this will not affect the Call of Duty franchise as far as what platforms the games appear on. But will it given time? I’m not sure.
The winner in all of this is you, the player. You just have to own the device, the portal, made to play/connect with the games of the Big 3 to enjoy. Cedar Fair being bought out by SeaWorld… that’s a whole other can of worms.
JohnnyBGamer 