In a move that sent shockwaves through the gaming industry, Xbox acquired Activision Blizzard which is known for some of the most iconic and beloved franchises in the world.
This recent acquisition by Microsoft and Xbox has taken things to the next level. With the acquisition of Activision Blizzard, Xbox has now expanded its impressive roster of games. In this blog, we will look at a list of well-known franchises that are now under Xbox.
Franchises Under Xbox After Acquisition of Activision Blizzard
Let’s take a look at the list of franchises Xbox now owns after it acquired Activision Blizzard for a whopping $69 billion:
-
Call of Duty
The popular first-person shooter Call of Duty now stands as an Xbox franchise. With its rich history and massive player base all over the world, this cements Xbox's top position in the world of competitive online gaming. This takeover would also include the infamous Call of Duty: Mobile.
-
World of Warcraft
This popular MMORPG, World of Warcraft, is also part of the deal. This fantasy world has captivated millions of gamers for years and it will now be under Xbox and Microsoft.
-
Diablo
The deal with Activision also included the dark and gothic world of Diablo. The world of Diablo offers an immersive world for gamers with its dark fantasy elements.
-
Overwatch
Overwatch, the colorful and competitive team-based first-person shooter, is another game that is now owned by Xbox. The heroes and heroines of Overwatch are here to stay.
-
StarCraft
This legendary real-time strategy franchise, StarCraft, is now under Xbox as well. This expansion of genres in Xbox's portfolio shows their commitment to a range of gaming experiences.
-
Hearthstone
The popular digital collectible card game, Hearthstone, is also part of the deal agreed upon by Xbox and Activision Blizzard. The game offers a gateway to the vibrant world of card gaming for Xbox gamers.
-
Crash Bandicoot
The iconic platforming hero, Crash Bandicoot, a character synonymous with PlayStation, is now officially an Xbox franchise. This means there could be more adventures on the horizon.
-
Tony Hawk's Pro Skate
The legendary skateboarding series, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater has also joined the Xbox family. Pro Skate enthusiasts can look forward to new tricks and challenges with the latest editions.
-
Candy Crush
Xbox's acquisition also includes the addictive mobile sensation, Candy Crush. This casual gaming favorite has found a new home on Xbox devices.
-
King's Quest
The classic adventure game series, King's Quest, is now part of the Xbox family, providing a touch of nostalgia and storytelling excellence.
-
Guitar Hero
The iconic rhythm game franchise, Guitar Hero, is now under Xbox. The video game could see its revival soon after the takeover.
-
Prototype
The Prototype series, which is known for its superhuman powers and chaotic open-world gameplay, is also now an Xbox franchise. It promises intense action and superpowers galore.
-
Destiny
While not originally part of the Activision Blizzard deal, Destiny, the popular sci-fi multiplayer shooter, is now under Xbox as well.
Other Popular Franchises Xbox Owns
Xbox’s portfolio does not end here. The gaming giant has plenty of other franchises under their belt which include:
-
Fallout
Fallout is one of the most popular Xbox franchises. This post-apocalyptic video game has millions of players across the globe.
-
The Elder Scrolls
The Elder Scrolls is regarded as one of the best video game franchises in the world. In the year 2013, the game was voted as the greatest game series of the decade; beating 64 others in the competition.
-
Doom
Doom is a first-person shooter horror video game known for its intense combat. The franchise is known for making some of the best horror games of all time.
-
The Evil Within
The Evil Within is another horror video game franchise that has gathered a huge fan base over the years. The game has a highly detailed horror atmosphere and a brilliant storyline.
-
Wolfenstein
Wolfenstein is another first-person shooter that is known for its thrilling action gameplay. Gamers can expect new editions on top of the previous 13 titles.
-
Forza Horizon
The Forza franchise is a direct competitor of the infamous Gran Turismo. The series has some of the best racing games in the world.
-
Halo
The first installation of Halo came out in 2001 and proved to be an instant hit. This first-person shooter may go under reorganization to restore it to its glory.
-
Gears of War
Gears of War is another franchise originally owned by Xbox. This shooter game franchise has been a vital aspect of the success of Xbox and Microsoft.
-
Minecraft
Minecraft is one of the most popular Xbox franchises with millions of gamers across the world. This video game has been a cornerstone of Xbox’s success in the gaming world.
-
State of Decay
State of Decay is a third-person survival horror game that has two prior installations and the third is just around the corner. The game gives a terrifying open-world experience with zombies at every corner.
There are numerous other franchises that we did not mention in this article such as Wasteland, Killer Instincts, and Fable. This just shows the diversity of the Xbox’s franchise portfolio.