Xbox Acquires ZeniMax Media, Parent Company Of Bethesda Softworks

Microsoft has announced today that it has acquired ZeniMax Media, parent company of Bethesda Softworks. As a result, the likes of DOOM, The Elder Scrolls, Fallout and more will now be under ownership of Xbox.

The company says the acquisition serves as a "landmark step" for the brand, and it will be adding Bethesda’s iconic franchises to Xbox Game Pass for console and PC, with the intent of bringing Bethesda's future games into Xbox Game Pass the same day they launch on console and/or PC as well.

Bethesda's Pete Hines commented on the move in a blog post:

"So why the change? Because it allows us to make even better games going forward. Microsoft is an incredible partner and offers access to resources that will make us a better publisher and developer. We believe that means better games for you to play. Simply put - we believe that change is an important part of getting better. We believe in pushing ourselves to be better. To innovate. To grow."

According to a press release, Microsoft has acquired ZeniMax Media for the cool sum of $7.5 billion in cash, with ZeniMax Chairman and CEO Robert A. Altman calling it "a thrilling day for this company, our employees, and our fans."

Here's what Xbox boss Phil Spencer had to say on the acquisition:

"All of our work, and the foundation of our relationship with you, starts with a commitment to deliver a breadth of amazing games to discover and play on Xbox. Over the last few weeks, we’ve been excited to share more detail on important elements of a plan we’ve been building towards for years. A plan that is the fulfilment of a promise, to you the Xbox player, to deliver the most performant, immersive and compatible next-generation gaming experiences, and the freedom to play blockbuster games with your friends, anytime, anywhere. Today is a landmark step in our journey together and I’m incredibly energized by what this step means for Xbox.

Please join me in welcoming all of our friends at Bethesda to Team Xbox."

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