Microsoft has now confirmed the rumors that started last week that it will acquire Mojang, the creators of the hit PC, mobile and console game Minecraft, for $2.5 billion
In a press release, Microsoft stated that the acquisition will be completed sometime in late 2014. It added, "Microsoft plans to continue to make 'Minecraft' available across all the platforms on which it is available today: PC, iOS, Android, Xbox and PlayStation."
In a statement on Xbox Wire, Phil Spencer, the head of Microsoft's Xbox division, stated:
"The Minecraft community is passionate and diverse, ranging across all ages and demographics. We respect the brand and independent spirit that has made Minecraft great, and we'll carry on the tradition of innovation to move the franchise forward. Our investments in cloud, Xbox Live and mobile technology will enable players to benefit from richer and faster worlds, more powerful development tools, and more opportunities to connect with the Minecraft community."
Microsoft also stated that Minecon, Mojang's fan convention for all things Minecraft, will be held next year. There was no mention of Minecraft coming to Windows Phone or Windows 8.1.
What do you think of Microsoft buying Mojang and the Minecraft franchise?