Microsoft is stepping even more boldly into the online entertainment market, paying $7.5 billion in cash to acquire ZeniMax Media, the parent of pupular video game publisher Bethesda.
“Gaming is the most expansive category in the entertainment industry, as people everywhere turn to gaming to connect, socialize and play with their friends,” said Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, in the announcement made early Monday.
“Quality differentiated content is the engine behind the growth and value of Xbox Game Pass—from Minecraft to Flight Simulator. As a proven game developer and publisher, Bethesda has seen success across every category of games, and together, we will further our ambition to empower the more than three billion gamers worldwide.”
CNBC notes that the deal gives Microsoft “access to a raft of successful game franchises, including role-playing game series Fallout and The Elder Scrolls and the Doom shooter series.”
Phil Spencer, executive vice president, Gaming at Microsoft, pointed out:
“This is an awesome time to be an Xbox fan. In the last 10 days alone, we’ve released details on our two new consoles which go on pre-order tomorrow, launched cloud gaming in Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and now we’re making another investment in the most critical part of our strategy: the games.
“Generations of gamers have been captivated by the renowned franchises in the Bethesda portfolio and will continue to be so for years to come as part of Xbox.”
