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Microsoft announces purchase of Minecraft creator Mojang
- Thread starter Quentyn
- Start date
Shrennin
Didn't get the memo regarding the 14th Amendment
I think the next Minecraft will be exclusive to Microsoft systems personally. Minecraft is already available on nearly every system now so Microsoft would look REALLY bad to suddenly pull it from non-MS systems; however, if they keep supporting every version until the next Minecraft comes into play, then suddenly the next Minecraft becomes a major hook for Xbox and Windows Phone platforms while avoiding any bad PR in the process because, by then, the next Minecraft will have been developed as part of Microsoft studios.
killer rin
Member
They'll end up putting a hypothetical Minecraft 2 everywhere but Nintendo and Sony platforms. That alone would have a potential reach of a billion plus people
I think Minecraft 2 will eventually release on all platforms including Playstation but it may be a 6 month timed exclusive for Xbox.
Truespeed
Member
I'd really like to see them do that. If for nothing else than to see the new version sink into irrelevance while the first version marches on.
I couldn't care less about Minecraft, but this is such an interesting thing to have happen. It will be so interesting to see what the reaction is from Sony with the PlayStation versions. Microsoft is so smart to put the onus on them by being up front that they will continue to support the PlayStation versions, I really wonder if Sony will be okay with allowing their prime competitor to promote their brand and game now on their platform, because if they don't it would be at the expense of selling a massively important game to their customers. I'm sure MS would be elated to say the game is now exclusive to Xbox because Sony wouldn't allow it on PlayStation, too.
Also, the simple fact that PlayStation mascots now exist in a Microsoft game is surreal. Crazy times we're living in.
Also, the simple fact that PlayStation mascots now exist in a Microsoft game is surreal. Crazy times we're living in.
Funny how Phil's division announce this and all the fanboys before thought it was a MS corporate decision. The Xbox division is trying to shake things up. Surprised Nadella gave Phil the green light to spend that much on Mojang, but than again, Phil's neck is on the line, if minecraft 2 or whatever new IP, they create doesn't start selling craploads ala Angry Birds merchandise. I see this as Nadella giving the Xbox Division a last chance to prove itself with another big studio. If they can't even breakeven from the Minecraft IP, than I don't see a long term future for Xbox.
Caayn
Member
Which Playstation mascot is now in a Microsoft game? Honest question.Also, the simple fact that PlayStation mascots now exist in a Microsoft game is surreal. Crazy times we're living in.
Nightengale
Member
Minecraft skins of Drake, Kratos, etc.
Why wouldn't Sony be ok with? TBH in simple terms it looks good for them. MS is the one supporting Sony platform in this scenario while Sony games remain on Sony only : message is you get broader access on Sony platform than MS platform from Sony perspective.I couldn't care less about Minecraft, but this is such an interesting thing to have happen. It will be so interesting to see what the reaction is from Sony with the PlayStation versions. Microsoft is so smart to put the onus on them by being up front that they will continue to support the PlayStation versions, I really wonder if Sony will be okay with allowing their prime competitor to promote their brand and game now on their platform, because if they don't it would be at the expense of selling a massively important game to their customers. I'm sure MS would be elated to say the game is now exclusive to Xbox because Sony wouldn't allow it on PlayStation, too.
Also, the simple fact that PlayStation mascots now exist in a Microsoft game is surreal. Crazy times we're living in.
It also raises thought MS might go platform agnostic more broadly which is also plus point for Sony.
This is why the move coupled with Nadella comments puzzles me. He talks - and Spencer confirms - platform agnostic future yet in real world practical terms right now MS is still mainly relying on tried and trusted core pillars like Windows, Office and SQL Server. They're badly losing in mobile OS and XB1 is behind Sony : where's the value in being agnostic in terms of fixing that?
How will Minecraft help them grow Windows OS / Phones if I can proceed as normal and still get it on iOS / Android?
I'm just not feeling how this will work but I'm damn curious to see how MS proceed and what this might mean for Xbox vs their grander visions.
Barack Lesnar
Banned
I can't imagine it would be difficult to port over. The only changes would be some kind of Wii U tablet interface, which shouldn't be a big deal. I hope they port it over because a lot of kids are on Wii U and they'll all get hooked on Minecraft if they weren't already, and then when Minecraft 2 releases it'll only be on Xbox and Windows. I don't see how a Wii U port could be negative in any way from a business perspective.
I honestly think a proper Minecraft sequel from a big established AAA developer sounds more interesting than whatever Mojang probably would have come up with.
I would love to see a Minecraft 2 that's more polished, has a slight bit more direction, uses MS's cloud servers so anyone can host dedicated servers without leaving their PS4/XBone running 24/7, has some nicer lighting/rendering (I hope it still stays blocky and pixelated, I really wouldn't like to see it look like EQ:Next), and maybe some more thought out physics (vehicles ala Nuts and Bolt possible? Who knows).
Notch had a brilliant idea with Minecraft, and he deserves all of the success he's gotten, but it's an idea that he sort of stumbled in to. After watching how he sort of floundered around with his space game, I'm not sure he would have struck gold twice. It'll be great to see what a bigger studio can do with the franchise. Just hopefully they don't totally fuck it up.
I would love to see a Minecraft 2 that's more polished, has a slight bit more direction, uses MS's cloud servers so anyone can host dedicated servers without leaving their PS4/XBone running 24/7, has some nicer lighting/rendering (I hope it still stays blocky and pixelated, I really wouldn't like to see it look like EQ:Next), and maybe some more thought out physics (vehicles ala Nuts and Bolt possible? Who knows).
Notch had a brilliant idea with Minecraft, and he deserves all of the success he's gotten, but it's an idea that he sort of stumbled in to. After watching how he sort of floundered around with his space game, I'm not sure he would have struck gold twice. It'll be great to see what a bigger studio can do with the franchise. Just hopefully they don't totally fuck it up.
Flintty
Member
Why such joy in seeing people fail? Serious question.
Barack Lesnar
Banned
Got a question for people who play or have played Minecraft. My experience with it is just watching some videos. Question is for Minecraft 2, how would they do the graphics? Would they keep it the same or maybe give the blocks high-res textures or maybe make the graphics Pixar/CG-like but still blocky. I'm just curious what a sequel would look like. Any predictions from Minecraft vets?
Imperfected
Member
To be fair, they're now phenomenally rich and probably couldn't care less about working for any company unless it's to suit their personal whims.
Truespeed
Member
Why the incorrect inference? Limiting the availability of the new version or messing with the formula that made it what it is would be a mistake.
I couldn't care less about Minecraft, but this is such an interesting thing to have happen. It will be so interesting to see what the reaction is from Sony with the PlayStation versions. Microsoft is so smart to put the onus on them by being up front that they will continue to support the PlayStation versions, I really wonder if Sony will be okay with allowing their prime competitor to promote their brand and game now on their platform, because if they don't it would be at the expense of selling a massively important game to their customers. I'm sure MS would be elated to say the game is now exclusive to Xbox because Sony wouldn't allow it on PlayStation, too.
Also, the simple fact that PlayStation mascots now exist in a Microsoft game is surreal. Crazy times we're living in.
Why would Sony have a problem with it? They still get their cut. If anything this could lead to Halo being on PS5.
PsihoPerihelion
Member
C'mon son, we both know that this is not going to happen unless the Xbox brand dies.
MS might transition to software only and focus on mobile etc. Xbone isn't going to do anywhere near 360 numbers.
SolidsnackooFoxhound
Banned
I just read on Gamespot that Minecraft on PC and Xbox will require a gold subscription starting next month.
Got ya
NemesisPrime
Banned
QFT.
I could see it on 3ds
Agreed, the PS fanbase for MC is less then 5m? Ad the game isn't even on Nintendo consoles.
Miles Quaritch
Member
There's probably still some bitterness over the GoldenEye HD remake that MS/4J/Rare were forced to shelve.
Although I can't remember if that was a Nintendo or Acti issue.
NemesisPrime
Banned
I don't think it is hard to dramatically increase the quality of the graphics while keeping the same gameplay.
Dynamic shadows, high res textures and UI and slightly smaller blocks would already be a serious improvement.
Than giant persistent worlds on cloud servers (yes yes.. MC kinda does this already).
NemesisPrime
Banned
I don't think they are hoping for another hit, that was never their plan... MC will last 10+ more years.
Terrible_Majesty
Member
what? isnt this like if MS bought Nintendo and Miyamoto, Gunpei Yokoi and the guy who made Pokemon left?
Memorabilia
Member
I see this move having far more to do with mobile than Xbox. I suppose only time will tell.
Memorabilia
Member
I was going to comment this move looks to position MS for an eventual post-Xbox, platform agnostic strategy. People who think this is all or even mostly about Xbone are probably misreading the tea leaves. Exclusivity may have run its course and be on its last legs as a legitimate strategy to sell product. I don't think this is about spending 2.5 billion and hoping you "force" a few more people to adopt your console as much as its about bringing future IPs to every platform and raking in a lot more cash. I could see Halo on every system available in 2020 if MS concludes they can make more profit that way than by producing another Xbox.
The more I think about it the more this feels like a move towards either spinning off or minimising Xbox division.
I know for some this is instant "no way" territory but look at Nadella's comments and also Spencer's. It fits a world where Xbox is just one platform of many being supported by MS content and services not one where they're trying to push everything onto MS devices - a strategy which overall in consumer space has delivered mixed to poor results in total (including Xbox, Zune and all their consumer focused efforts).
Interesting times coming I think as Nadella starts to make broader changes and exert his view throught the business.
I see the MS will sell the Xbox division nonense still hasn't gone away. Phil has said he wants Xbox to be the biggest gaming brand in the world, he's achieving this by buying the biggest games as exclusive, nothing to do with pulling out of the console business.
MS haven't spend $2.5bn to release Minecraft 2 on all platforms.
Minecraft has made $330m in the last year. It could hardly have been more successful, but at that rate it will still take around 8 years to break even. Not sure if that's a good investment but a whole lot can happen in 8 years.
MS have two plays - one short term, one long term.
I think MS has been initially smart by saying Minecraft will be platform agnostic - but that the decision is up to the platform holders. I don't know what Sony's position is, but I expect will be unhappy having MS make money out of their PlayStation platforms. Will MS and Sony sign up to the PS terms, clauses and conditions? I doubt it. So, if that happens, PS say no - we're not letting MS make money out of PS, then they will look like the bad guys. MS wins.
Longer term, Minecraft 2 will be focussed (but not exclusive) on MS - it will appear on Android, iOS, Mac - but highly unlikely on non MS consoles because it will be a massive draw for people to invest in the MS console - and that's the only reason they would spend $2.5bn.
PS hardware is superior to X1 - but MS strategy - and one they can always win - will be around commercial deals which blow the competition out of the water. It started with Tomb Raider, now Minecraft and there will be more to come. It's the only card they can play, but it is a strong one - and not ideal for the consumer.
Minecraft has made $330m in the last year. It could hardly have been more successful, but at that rate it will still take around 8 years to break even. Not sure if that's a good investment but a whole lot can happen in 8 years.
MS have two plays - one short term, one long term.
I think MS has been initially smart by saying Minecraft will be platform agnostic - but that the decision is up to the platform holders. I don't know what Sony's position is, but I expect will be unhappy having MS make money out of their PlayStation platforms. Will MS and Sony sign up to the PS terms, clauses and conditions? I doubt it. So, if that happens, PS say no - we're not letting MS make money out of PS, then they will look like the bad guys. MS wins.
Longer term, Minecraft 2 will be focussed (but not exclusive) on MS - it will appear on Android, iOS, Mac - but highly unlikely on non MS consoles because it will be a massive draw for people to invest in the MS console - and that's the only reason they would spend $2.5bn.
PS hardware is superior to X1 - but MS strategy - and one they can always win - will be around commercial deals which blow the competition out of the water. It started with Tomb Raider, now Minecraft and there will be more to come. It's the only card they can play, but it is a strong one - and not ideal for the consumer.
The big part of its success was due to the Xbox 360, the Xbox division. Why would another division announce this? They're looking at the bigger picture with this purchase. It seems doubtful that MS will get a positive return on investment, but we'll see.
CharmingCharlie
Member
Where do you get that the xbox 360 was the big part of Minecrafts success ? Minecraft was bloody huge on the PC long before it hit the Xbox 360. If anything I would say the PC played the biggest role in Minecrafts success.
AdventureRacing
Member
There's no doubt about it to me. Minecraft was set to become a phenomenon long before it hit the 360.
TheChewyWaffles
Member
Fixed that for you.
Mengy
wishes it were bannable to say mean things about Marvel
There is zero chance IMHO that Microsoft will ever sell the Xbox division. What I do see happening though is that they are gradually migrating the Xbox division into more of a all encompassing general gaming division which includes Xbox, PC, and mobile. They've made a whole lot of empty promises about PC gaming over the past decade, I mean they've really just abandoned it, but lately they've released a few of their old franchises onto Steam no less. There are rumors that the Halo compilation may eventually make it to PC (after Xbox has it first for awhile of course), they have recently farmed out their old but still largely popular Flight Simulator to Dovetail Games who are going to not only be bringing FSX to Steam but will be updating it as well. And now they have acquired Minecraft and they surprisingly seem okay with not only keeping it on competing platforms but even updating and supporting it there as well.
I don't think this is the Microsoft we have known for the past decade or so. They seem to genuinely be changing. Gradual change, but change nontheless.
Personally, I think they are attempting to "hardware proof" themselves over the very long term. I think they would ultimately like to sell gaming services and software which are hardware independent rather than sell hardware, but for now they need both to be competitive. It might have a lot to do with how quickly mobile tech is replacing stationary tech. Soon portable computers and game devices will be every bit as capable as consoles and PC's, it's just a matter of time now (a long time), and I think MS wants to be ready for the transition rather than get caught with their pants down.
You're assuming that they're just going to let Minecraft stagnate. I'm going to guess the next one is going to leverage Azure in a very big way, with enormous worlds and, ironically, more focused gameplay opportunities. In other words, this is going to be their WoW.
open_mouth_
insert_foot_
This will be the last Xbox console released by Microsoft. They will transition into a software-only multiplatform games maker.
Their cloud gaming service will be made available to all game makers to put their games on and Microsoft's own games will get the ball rolling on that. The service will be available on PC, Mac, and mobile.
Microsoft games will push the PC as a key gaming platform. They will also release games on mobile, Nintendo handhelds, major home consoles from Sony/Nintendo, etc. It will be a two-tiered attack.
No more huge hardware investments. Microsoft will stick with it's core competencies... software + cloud + ip, when it comes to gaming. True profitability will finally return and the gaming division will be a valuable piece of the entire Microsoft pie, at long last.
In the meantime, they're building up an impressive stable of ip: Minecraft, Halo, Gears, Forza, Fable, etc.
Their cloud gaming service will be made available to all game makers to put their games on and Microsoft's own games will get the ball rolling on that. The service will be available on PC, Mac, and mobile.
Microsoft games will push the PC as a key gaming platform. They will also release games on mobile, Nintendo handhelds, major home consoles from Sony/Nintendo, etc. It will be a two-tiered attack.
No more huge hardware investments. Microsoft will stick with it's core competencies... software + cloud + ip, when it comes to gaming. True profitability will finally return and the gaming division will be a valuable piece of the entire Microsoft pie, at long last.
In the meantime, they're building up an impressive stable of ip: Minecraft, Halo, Gears, Forza, Fable, etc.
Michael F. Assbender
Banned
Still think they're a few years late to the party with this purchase, but whatever.
Banjo-Kazooie
Member
As time goes on, I think MS will care more about enticing people to sign up for a Microsoft account, than they will with selling a home console, imo. I think this is early signs of them laying the seeds of possible turning into a services and game division, and getting rid of MS specific hardware. If they have the games available on the cloud, and on other platforms like steam/playstation, and have everyone signed up with a MS account and Gold, then they don't need to really waste time on everything that goes into having a physical console.
Yes, they want Xbox as a service to be a big gaming brand. And that is something they can do without having a physical console. The "Xbox" brand is more than just a console these days. When you mention the word Xbox, it encompasses much more than just the console itself, it means Music, Video, Reading, television, the cloud, a great online infrastructure, smartglass, game branding on mobile/PC/360/X1.
I don't believe they will sell it...but transition it away from MS specific hardware dependent? I think it could happen.
Herbspiceguy
Member
Isn't this a first that a first party developer will continue to release content for a game released on a console of a direct competitor?
Interesting to see how microtransactions (pretty sure this is a given) changes the game.
Interesting to see how microtransactions (pretty sure this is a given) changes the game.
Alx
Member
Apparently the game has been getting microtransactions for a long time already. A quick search on the 360 marketplace displays a bunch of texture packs, animals, costumes, ... plus many avatar items.
I think in terms of exclusivity Minecraft (main game) will continue to be cross platform and that the potential to really make bank for Microsoft is in spinoffs exclusive to xbox/windows.
Minecraft Racing: Exclusive on Xbox One
Minecraft Strategic Assault: Exclusive to Windows Phone.
Things like that. It could keep Minecraft fans happy and both sale Microsoft hardware at the same time.
Minecraft Racing: Exclusive on Xbox One
Minecraft Strategic Assault: Exclusive to Windows Phone.
Things like that. It could keep Minecraft fans happy and both sale Microsoft hardware at the same time.
Mengy
wishes it were bannable to say mean things about Marvel
Yeah, I could see this happening very easily. And to be honest I'd be okay with that, as long as they keep updating and supporting the main game the way Mojang has been for four years.
I really do hope that multiplayer features get more of a focus now though. Mods fixed the shortcomings for a long time, but with Bukkit gone now (I wonder if they knew something about this before it was revealed?) the server client really needs some love.