The British regulator has launched an investigation into the deal between Microsoft and Activision Blizzard

On July 6, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) of the United Kingdom notified Microsoft and Activision Blizzard of the launch of an investigation into the companies. The regulator intends to find out whether the $68.7 billion deal will have a negative impact on the gaming market.

One of the goals of the investigation is to check whether the takeover could “harm competition and lead to a deterioration of conditions for consumers.” Among the possible consequences are an increase in prices for games, a decrease in the quality of services and a restriction of choice.

Until July 20, the British regulator will expect comments from third parties interested in the investigation. The Department must announce its final decision on the first stage of the audit by September 1.

Microsoft announced the purchase of Activision Blizzard in January. Since then, the record deal for the industry has attracted increased attention from various regulatory authorities. For example, the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has already launched its own investigation.