Microsoft's extensive game studio buyout considerations.

Microsoft has explored the possibility of acquiring Sega, Bungie, and IO Interactive in recent years, according to internal documents from the ongoing court case against the US Federal Trade Commission. Xbox boss Phil Spencer requested approval to approach Sega Sammy in November 2020, citing its global PC catalog, presence on mobile in Asia, and global brand affinity on console through its classic IP. Other companies on Microsoft's "M&A final watchlist" included Bungie, Zynga, IO Interactive, Supergiant Games, Niantic, Thunderful, Playrix, and Scopely.