Microsoft sent shockwaves around the gaming world last September when theyannounced the purchase of Zenimax Media,the parent company of Bethesda Softworks. The deal, worth a staggering $7.5 billion, will see the likes ofFalloutandThe Elder Scrollsbecome Xbox properties. While the deal has already been agreed, there are still some potential stumbling blocks.
Reutershas reported that Microsoft has “requested European Commission approval” for the purchase over the last couple of days. The deal will be decided on by EU antitrust regulators will by March 5.
Reuters states that:
“The EU competition enforcer can clear the deal with or without concessions during its preliminary review or it can open a full-scale investigation if it has serious concerns.”
Zenimax, and by extension Bethesda, are best known for their big franchisesThe Elder Scrolls,which includes bothSkyrimandOblivionand theFalloutseries. On top of these titles, however, the company has played its part in the releases of some other huge franchises, including theDoom series,Wolfenstein seriesandDishonored series.
The future is looking good for both Bethesda and Microsoft. As well as their wonderful back catalogue of games, it’s been confirmed that the company has at least two more massive titles in the works. Announced back at E3 2018, Bethesda confirmed a brand new IP,titledStarfield,and the next game inThe Elder Scrollsfranchisewere both in development. Both of these titles are still likely a long way off, however.
It’s also been confirmed that another of Zenimax’s subsidiaries, MachineGames, is developing a big new title. TheWolfensteindevelopers have revealed that a new, originalIndiana Jonesgame is being worked on. Thankfully for fans, the development of the newIndygame won’t have any bearing onhow soonThe Elder Scrolls 6andStarfieldrelease.
