According to Sony’s newest declaration, Microsoft’s Call of Duty contract “would irreversibly undermine competition.” In an effort to thwart Microsoft’s purchase of Activision Blizzard, Sony has done everything in its power to put the deal on hold.
The relationship between Sony and Microsoft soured after it was revealed that Microsoft wants to buy Activision Blizzard. Sony’s hostility stems from the fact that Activision Blizzard develops Call of Duty, which contributes significantly to PlayStation’s popularity. Sony now has an agreement with Activision under which PlayStation owners get preferential treatment when it comes to Call of Duty material. Since it seems that this arrangement will expire in 2024, Sony is doing all in its power to prevent Microsoft from completing its transaction with Activision. Sony previously stated that their objection was motivated by a concern that Microsoft would make Call of Duty an Xbox exclusive, but this has subsequently been refuted. Microsoft has already secured a 10-year agreement with Nintendo and Nvidia to deliver Call of Duty to their gamers and has offered the same arrangement to Sony.
