Unexpected twist: Microsoft asks Sony to defend itself in lawsuit against the U.S. Federal Trade Commission

In the case of the merger between Microsoft and Activision Blizzard there was an unexpected and interesting turn. The main opponent of the deal - the Japanese corporation Sony - can act as Microsoft's defender in court.

Here's What We Know

It is known that the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is trying to block the deal with Activision Blizzard through the court.

Soon there will be the first hearing, to which Microsoft has invited Sony to act as its defender.

It is assumed that the Japanese company will provide the court with some important information about the development of exclusive games for the PlayStation. Microsoft believes that the disclosure of some of the documentation will show the balance of power of the competitors in the gaming industry, which will allow the transaction to be concluded in the end.

The only reasonable question is why Sony would do that.

Probably, helping the main rival in the court would allow the Japanese to bargain for the most favorable conditions, for example, regarding the further release of games by Activision Blizzard on PlayStation. But it will cost the disclosure of confidential information.

Sony has until January 27 to give an answer as to whether the company's representative will appear in court or ignore the subpoena.

Source: VGC