As WB Rumors Swirl, Microsoft Is Open To Acquiring More Studios For Xbox

Microsoft isn't done acquiring new studios, head of Xbox Phil Spencer has revealed. Originally reported by Gamesindustry.biz, Xbox Game Studios' first priority is supporting already acquired studios like Double Fine and Obsidian, but Spencer said that the door is open for more acquisitions.

"We have really strong support from Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, and Amy Hood, the CFO. And there's been no signal at all that we should be slowing down, but just to go at a pace that is maintainable for us as a leadership team," Spencer said. "We're always out there talking to people. But it has to be the right opportunity."

This lines up with a recent report that Microsoft expressed interest in purchasing Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment (WB Games) from AT&T. WB Games includes Rocksteady (Batman Arkham Knight), NetherRealm Studios (Mortal Kombat 11), and more. No sale has been announced and the deal would most likely not include IP like Batman.

"The Game Pass portfolio and subscriber base continues to grow. We're launching a new console. Last year was our biggest year ever on PC in terms of revenue as Xbox Game Studios," Spencer said. "A lot of the business is doing really well, so we're always in the market for new opportunities with studios."

Xbox Game Studios' next title, Obsidian's Grounded, enters Xbox Game Preview later this month on July 28 as part of Xbox Game Pass. Microsoft will be showing more of its Xbox Series X games during the Xbox first-party showcase on July 23.