Leaked Bethesda game plan reignites conversations on Microsoft's ascendancy in the gaming industry

The leaked Bethesda game plan has reignited discussions about Microsoft's rise to prominence in the gaming industry, shedding light on their growing influence and strategic acquisitions.

Leaked Bethesda game plan reignites conversations on Microsoft's ascendancy in the gaming industry
Leaked Bethesda game plan reignites conversations on Microsoft's ascendancy in the gaming industry.

A leaked Bethesda roadmap has recently surfaced as part of the FTC v. Microsoft case, revealing both anticipated and unannounced projects, including a new Doom installment titled "Doom Year Zero." However, the focus extends beyond Bethesda's future lineup and raises questions about Microsoft's growing influence in the gaming industry.

Leaked Bethesda game plan reignites conversations on Microsoft's ascendancy in the gaming industry

The roadmap outlines Bethesda's game releases from 2020 to 2024, including highly anticipated titles like "Dishonored 3" and a sequel to "Ghostwire: Tokyo," both scheduled for 2024. What adds intrigue to these revelations is Microsoft's ownership of Bethesda since 2021, which is part of Microsoft's strategic expansion in the gaming ecosystem. Microsoft's acquisition efforts didn't stop there; they also announced their intent to acquire Activision Blizzard for a massive $69 billion, a move currently under regulatory scrutiny.

Why is this significant? The leaked documents also disclosed Microsoft Gaming chief Phil Spencer's ambition to acquire Nintendo, adding another layer to the narrative. If Microsoft successfully navigates regulatory obstacles, it could gain significant control over numerous popular game titles and franchises. This could potentially reshape how future titles, including those in Bethesda's roadmap, are developed, distributed, or even conceptualized.

The roadmap also includes titles like "Fallout 3 Remaster" and an "unnamed licensed IP game," leaving both fans and critics pondering Microsoft's role in steering these developments. Will the tech giant use its high-profile acquisitions to standardize the gaming experience, or might it contribute to the industry with more diverse, high-quality content? These revelations serve not only as a sneak peek into upcoming games but also as a discussion point regarding Microsoft's gradually increasing influence. Given the regulatory scrutiny surrounding Microsoft's proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard, the company's next moves will undoubtedly be closely monitored.

Microsoft