Xbox's Gaming Empire Grows: The Most Iconic Franchises Under The Gaming Giant, Fans' Wish Lists For Revivals

Microsoft Corp.'s (NASDAQ: MSFT) Xbox completed its monumental acquisition of Activision Blizzard Inc (NASDAQ: ATVI), securing control of some of the most iconic video game franchises in the industry's history.

At the forefront of this acquisition is the widely popular Call of Duty series, which has consistently claimed the title of the best-selling video game each year.

See Also: End Of An Era: Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick Confirms Exit After Microsoft Deal

While this franchise's ownership had been a subject of much speculation and debate throughout the acquisition process, it's worth noting that Call of Duty won't become an Xbox exclusive.

Microsoft had to negotiate 10-year agreements with other platforms, including Sony Group Corp.'s (NYSE: SONY) PlayStation, Nintendo ADR (OTC: NTDOY), and various streaming services, to ensure the game's continued availability.

Beyond Call of Duty, the acquisition brings numerous other well-known franchises into the Xbox fold, titles that collectively represent some of the most cherished and enduring names in gaming history.

Here's a full list of major Activision Blizzard games now owned by Xbox, according to IGN:

Activision:

• Call of Duty
• Crash Bandicoot
• Guitar Hero
• Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
• Prototype
• Blur
• Spyro

Blizzard:

• Diablo
• Warcraft
• Overwatch
• StarCraft
• Lost Vikings

King:

• Candy Crush Saga
• Rebel Riders
• Diamond Diaries Saga
• Bubble Witch 3 Saga

Microsoft's Epic Acquisition Of Activision Blizzard Sparks Gamers' Dream Revival Wish List

While gamers dream of potential crossovers and new entries in these franchises, the spotlight is on the revival of classics.

Guitar Hero, a rhythm game featuring plastic guitars, has been a subject of discussion, especially after a recent tease by Activision CEO Bobby Kotick. There are even calls to bring back its spinoff, DJ Hero.

Hexen, a '90s shooter, has garnered support from nostalgic fans, while Tony Hawk's Pro Skater enthusiasts are eager for a revival. Xbox's ownership of Vicarious Visions, which developed remakes for Tony Hawk's Pro Skater and the Crash N. Sane Trilogy, could play a pivotal role in these franchises' futures.

Read Next: Activision CEO's Exit, Xbox's New Era: The Gaming World Reacts To Microsoft's $69B Deal

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