Microsoft

For years, the prospect of video game stock consolidation has been looming. The online distribution of video games for PC, smartphone, and console platforms has diminished the significance of previous popular titles, while the introduction of monthly subscriptions from Microsoft (MSFT 0.92 percent) and Apple has allowed a fresh era of free games. As a consequence, the way studios, console manufacturers, and digital distributors generate money has changed.

Microsoft's purchase of Activision Blizzard (ATVI 0.53 percent) for $68.7 billion cemented the company's dominance in gaming. Microsoft is the market leader in Xbox consoles, has 25 million Game Pass users, would control 30 firms if the acquisition is completed, and operates one of the world's largest cloud systems. This combination creates a formidable force capable of dominating any market.

What makes Microsoft's acquisition and in-house gaming businesses unique is the business strategy flexibility they provide.

Founded in: 1975

Headquarters: Washington, US

Revenue: $11.6 billion

Website: https://www.microsoft.com/