Microsoft Xbox Summons Sony PlayStation in Its Defense Against the FTC Lawsuit Targeting the Activision Blizzard Acquisition

Microsoft’s attempts to acquire video game developer Activision Blizzard is filled with several roadblocks.

With potential objections from regulators in the EU and United States, the Redmond-based tech giants have their work cut for them. And it also doesn’t help that many of its rivals such as Sony PlayStation have tried their best to block this deal as well.

However, as Microsoft prepares for its defence against the vaunted FTC lawsuit, the Xbox parent company is all set to seek help from its enemy in Sony PlayStation.

According to court filings obtained by VGC, Microsoft Xbox has subpoenaed Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) to reveal details about its “game production pipeline.” The filing states, “negotiations between SIE and Microsoft as to the scope of SIE’s production and a discovery schedule are ongoing.”

Sony PlayStation can cater to the subpoena until January 27 by either responding to it, or by moving to either modify or quash it entirely.

It’s interesting to note the involvement of Sony PlayStation, as the company has largely been critical of Microsoft’s attempts to acquire Activision Blizzard. The PlayStation makers have showcased their view on the matter by pointing out how the deal might take away a large player base away from the blue side, if franchises like Call of Duty become an Xbox exclusive.

Even with Xbox vowing to keep the series on PlayStation consoles for the next 10 years, Sony refuses to budge on its stance. However, with the FTC lawsuit set to begin soon, it seems like the latter will have to disclose secrets about many of its exclusives, and more.