Bungie CEO Dismantles Recent Reports Of The Firm Being Pursued For Acquisition By Microsoft

For fans that reflect on the definitive teams that are imbedded in the DNA of Xbox since the beginning of the gaming platform back in 2001, Bungie happens to be a tent pole developer leading well into the lifespan of Xbox more than a generation after its inception. Creating Halo whilst becoming a stepping stone for the first-person shooter genre and competitive gaming is also noted to be a pillar for Xbox’s first-party lineup of entries.

Even with the Xbox Series X, despite the latest installment being shelved for a 2021 launch, the franchise still holds to be an impactful seller for Microsoft. So when reports surfaced that the firm is in discussion to acquiring the Washington-based team, you would assume it to be likely – especially since this is not the first time Microsoft has pursued the developer.

However, despite what is presumed to be true, the chances of Bungie being under ownership of Microsoft is not true. That’s coming from the studio’s CEO Pete Parsons on Twitter who denounced the reports that were shared earlier today, stating “this is false” in regards to the claims.

Rightly so, it is more likely that Bungie would prefer to be independent after its previous relationship. While under the wing of Activision, it became very evident that the team was limited to how it could expand upon Destiny as the firm held the creative ambitions of Bungie with a vice grip. This resulting with the firm officially separating itself from the publisher with full ownership of Destiny.

Howbeit, the recent denouncing of the claims does not discount future partnerships between Bungie and Microsoft. Even now, the firm has illustrated to be more than friendly with the developer through the means of marketing agreements. Since the team breaking ties with Activision – including the marketing rights dealt to Sony Interactive Entertainment – there has been more sights of Destiny on Xbox. One example being the expansions for the game provided to Xbox Game Pass subscribers.

Additionally, the firm has stated that it looks to further establish its independent standing leading into the new decade. Back in September last year, Bungie told IGN that it is planning to establish a new franchise by the time 2025 comes around – presumably the previously trademarked Matter. You can read the full report by heading here.

Do you think Bungie is better off as an independent studio?