Microsoft acquires RPG studios Obsidian and inXile Entertainment

Last month, rumours surrounding Microsoft’s acquisition of Obsidian Entertainment came to a head, with many sources stating that it was almost complete. These rumours have since been officially confirmed at Microsoft’s X018, along with the surprise purchase of inXile Entertainment.

With Knights of the Old Republic II, Fallout New Vegas and Pillars of Eternity under its belt, Obsidian adds a lot of RPG power to Microsoft’s line-up. This contrasts Forza Horizon developer Playground Games and action-adventure studios Undead Labs, Ninja Theory and Compulsion Games, which were all acquired this year.

More unexpectedly, Microsoft has now struck a deal to buy inXile Entertainment, the developer known for its work on the Wasteland series, and recent sequel The Bard's Tale IV: Barrows Deep. Brian Fargo remains CEO of inXile, but it isn’t certain how this will affect his plans to potentially buy back Interplay.

“The 13 distinct and diverse game development teams that form Microsoft Studios are focused on implementing new Microsoft technologies, delivering content for new platforms and services like Xbox Game Pass, and creating exclusive games that turn players into loyal Xbox fans,” explains Microsoft Studios corporate vice president Matt Booty.

“We are committed to expanding the Microsoft Studios franchises players already love, and investing in new, exclusive content for every type of gamer. We will continue to operate autonomously and bring their unique talents, IP, and expertise to Microsoft Studios as they build new RPG experiences for our players and fans.”

KitGuru Says: This acquisition is sure to pump a lot of money into both Obsidian and inXile. The only caveat moving forward is that PlayStation plays might miss out on the masterpieces from either studio, depending on how Microsoft wants to handle releases. How do you feel about the acquisitions?

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