Microsoft has signed a long-term binding document to bring Activision and Xbox titles to Nintendo. The move aligns with Microsoft’s preparations to defend its case to get EU regulators to approve its acquisition of Activision Blizzard King.
Nintendo and Microsoft are Now Legally Binded
We’ve now signed a binding 10-year contract to bring Xbox games to Nintendo’s gamers. This is just part of our commitment to bring Xbox games and Activision titles like Call of Duty to more players on more platforms. pic.twitter.com/JmO0hzw1BO
— Brad Smith (@BradSmi) February 21, 2023
Microsoft Vice Chair and President, Brad Smith, confirmed on Twitter that Microsoft has signed a 10-year legal agreement to bring over Activision and Xbox games to Nintendo consoles.
In particular, the statement highlighted that Nintendo fans can expect Call of Duty to have both release and content parity with other consoles.
Concession to Appease Regulators
The agreement could be seen as a preemptive concession to help regulators to approve Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard King.
The Microsoft-Nintendo agreement came soon after the FTC, CMA, and EU antitrust regulators initially objected to the acquisition.
However, this is a normal process and allows Microsoft to present its case to regulators to get the deal done.
It is still unknown how Microsoft plans to deliver Activision and Xbox games to Nintendo consoles. Especially, given Nintendo Switch’s hardware limitations as it nears its 6th anniversary on March 6th.
How do you feel about the agreement? Do you think Microsoft’s acquisition of ABK will go through or be blocked? Sound off in the comment section below. And as always, check back to Lords of Gaming for the latest news, reviews, features, and analysis.
