The FTC vs Microsoft/Activision | A Lawyer Reads the Lawsuit (VL754 - LIVE)

Virtual Legality

In this episode, Richard Hoeg sets the stage for a deep dive into the intersection of law, video games, and digital matters. He provides a comprehensive introduction to the complex world of Virtual Legality. (0:00) Introduction and overview of the Microsoft Activision deal and the FTC's complaint (10:40) Listener's questions and comments on Microsoft's alleged actions and the EU's accusations (20:34) Discussion on the FTC's market control argument and its attempt to expand its authority (33:44) Analysis of the FTC's accusations against Microsoft and the EU regulator's response (40:00) Examination of the legality and potential effects of Microsoft's acquisition on competition and monopoly (51:15) Discussion on the jurisdictional issues related to the acquisition and comparison of Microsoft's and Activision's revenues (1:00:15) Response to audience comments and questions about the FTC's perspective and the shift from buy-to-play model to subscription model in video games (1:18:10) Critique of the FTC's arguments, discussion on market definition, and the pro-competitive effects of the acquisition (1:38:16) Responding to super chats and comments from viewers, and discussion on high-end consoles and Nintendo Switch (1:54:51) Addressing concerns over Microsoft's acquisition of Activision, analyzing the incentive of Microsoft to disadvantage rivals post-acquisition, and critique of the FTC's assertions about consumer harm (2:16:28) Final thoughts on the FTC's case against Microsoft's acquisition, predictions for Microsoft's future, and podcast closing remarks.