In a video deposition, PlayStation boss Jim Ryan expressed his concerns about Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard and criticized Xbox Game Pass, claiming that it is “value destructive.” While Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer previously stated that Game Pass is a sustainable and profitable service, Ryan stated that he spoke to publishers who have titles on Game Pass and found that they also dislike it. This contradicts Spencer’s claims and raises questions about the profitability of the service.
Ryan also addressed Sony’s fears that once the Microsoft-Activision deal closes, Call of Duty would become exclusive to Xbox. However, Xbox has expressed a willingness to strike a 10-year agreement ensuring that the franchise’s games release on PlayStation consoles in parity. Nonetheless, this issue remains a concern for Sony.
Regarding Microsoft’s previous acquisition of Bethesda Softworks, Ryan mentioned that games like Redfall and Starfield were made exclusive to Xbox and PC, which impacted Sony. While Ryan considers these exclusives to be acceptable, he strongly disagrees with the potential exclusivity of Call of Duty.
During the trial, it was revealed that Microsoft acted swiftly to acquire ZeniMax Media, the parent company of Bethesda, after learning that Starfield might skip Xbox and become a timed exclusive for the PS5. This move was necessary for Microsoft to remain competitive and maintain content ownership.
