"FTC Trial Uncovers Gaming Secrets and Microsoft's Business Deals"

The ongoing hearing between the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Microsoft regarding the acquisition of Activision Blizzard has revealed some interesting details about the gaming industry. Microsoft's primary goal with the acquisition is to find mobile customers for Xbox and expand into the growing mobile gaming market. The company considered other options like Zynga, Sega, and Square Enix before settling on Activision. Xbox Head Phil Spencer originally offered a five-year commitment to Sony for the "Call of Duty" franchise, but Sony rejected it. Microsoft evaluated ways to reduce Activision Blizzard content on PlayStation, and Bethesda's Indiana Jones game will be an Xbox exclusive. Microsoft canceled PlayStation versions of upcoming Bethesda games, and platform exclusivity decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. "The Elder Scrolls 6" is expected to be at least five years away and may be a cross or next-gen title. The cost of AAA games was also revealed, with "Horizon Forbidden West" costing $212 million and "The Last of Us Part 2" costing $220 million. The judge will decide on a preliminary injunction, which could potentially terminate the deal if granted.