Microsoft has achieved another significant milestone in its efforts to acquire Activision Blizzard, overcoming a recent challenge from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco has denied the FTC's appeal to block Microsoft's monumental $69 billion acquisition, as reported by Reuters. This ruling by a three-judge panel has effectively put an end to the FTC's efforts to challenge the July 2023 decision that initially permitted Microsoft to proceed with the purchase, which was originally announced in late 2022.

The acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft has been under intense scrutiny for over three years. Early opposition came from several U.S. Senators who expressed concerns over the increasing consolidation within the tech industry as Microsoft, the Xbox manufacturer, expanded its portfolio. Amid fears from competitors and gamers that such a deal might restrict popular franchises like Call of Duty to Xbox platforms only, Microsoft has reassured the public that it has no interest in barring certain franchises behind lengthy exclusivity periods.

Every Video Game Franchise Xbox Owns After Acquiring Activision Blizzard

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Despite ongoing challenges throughout 2023, Microsoft successfully completed its purchase of Activision Blizzard in October. The FTC's appeal posed a potential last-minute obstacle to normal operations, but with the appeal now denied, Microsoft can move forward confidently.

For those interested in a detailed timeline of Microsoft's journey to finalize the Activision Blizzard acquisition, you can click here.