Sony’s battle against Microsoft’s purchase of Activision Blizzard continues, with the Japanese company filing complaints against its primary console competitor. Sony’s latest criticism targets Starfield – and other Bethesda games – as an Xbox console exclusive.
In recent statements Sony tells the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority that Microsoft should not be trusted when it says it will ensure Activision Blizzard games such as Call of Duty remain on rival platforms. Sony specifically pointed to Microsoft’s previous comments about Bethesda games after the Redmond, WA-based organization said it would have “no incentive” to restrict the studio’s games from other platforms.
Sony’s main argument for Starfield on Xbox
“Microsoft also publicly informed investors that ‘we very much encourage cross-platform play.’ [because] if it’s good for the gaming ecosystem, it’s good for us…[w]I have no intention of just pulling all Bethesda content [competitor platforms]'”, the statement reads.
It continues: “But shortly after the acquisition was completed, Xbox head Phil Spencer revealed that
all along, the deal was about “delivering good exclusive games” to the Xbox. Mr. Spencer
later confirmed the upcoming releases of two of Bethesda’s most popular titles, Starfield
and Elder Scrolls, would be exclusive to Xbox.”
Sony continues that Microsoft’s attempt to buy Activision Blizzard should be “rejected or subject to structural remedies.” The company adds that it is “highly skeptical” that any deal with Microsoft could be reached, enforced and enforced.
Sony is worried that Microsoft may increase the prices of Call of Duty and other games, in which case the games will not be offered at all. They also believe that Microsoft is the focus of the incentives by which consumers decide to play on Xbox over PlayStation.
What do you think of Sony’s latest complaints about Starfield being an Xbox exclusive?
Want more Insider Gaming? Check out our story at The FTC fined Epic Games $245 million.
