Microsoft wins FTC fight to buy Activision Blizzard
https://www.theverge.com/2023/7/11/23779039/microsoft-activision-blizzard-ftc-trial-win
From the article, quoting Judge Corley:
… the Court finds the FTC has not shown a likelihood it will prevail on its claim this particular vertical merger in this specific industry may substantially lessen competition. To the contrary, the record evidence points to more consumer access to Call of Duty and other Activision content. The motion for a preliminary injunction is therefore DENIED.
Superior hardware? Nah. This gens hardware is 6 of one, half a dozen of the other. First party depends on preference - I don’t like linear cinematic single player games or baseball so sunny offer basically nothing that appeals to me. Likewise if someone didn’t like racing games or multiplayer focused shooters that probably aren’t interested in Xbox.
Sony have paid for far more exclusivity both in new and existing franchises than Ms have. Street fighter and final fantasy for 2 very recent examples.