Game changer: Microsoft buys Elder Scrolls company ZeniMax for $7.5bn

Acquisition comes ahead of Microsoft's new Xbox Series X consoles and could have significant impact on games industry

Microsoft is acquiring ZeniMax Media, the parent company of Bethesda Softworks, publisher of the best-selling video game franchises The Elder Scrolls, Fallout and Doom. The $7.5bn deal (5.85m) will see all future releases from Bethesda's studios included on the Xbox Game Pass subscription service.

Xbox chief Phil Spencer said: Like us, Bethesda are passionate believers in building a diverse array of creative experiences, in exploring new game franchises, and in telling stories in bold ways. All of their great work will continue and grow, and we look forward to empowering them with the resources and support of Microsoft to scale their creative visions to more players in new ways for you."