Markus "Notch" Persson May Not Join Microsoft After It Acquires Mojang

Bloomberg yesterday reported that Microsoft is in late stages talks with Mojang, the developer of popular video game Minecraft. The deal’s value is worth more than $2 Billion and may be concluded as soon as this week, though next week is more likely. Minecraft game is already available on Xbox One, Xbox 360 and many other platforms and have sold over 50 million copies to date. Microsoft is looking to expand the game’s reach on all the platforms and also planning to expand the licensing deals with other companies. The key here is the price Microsoft is ready to pay for Minecraft. According to me, anything above $2 billion is a premium price that Microsoft will pay.

The deal came together after Mojang founder Markus Persson reached out to Microsoft a few months ago, based on a positive working relationship on Minecraft for Xbox, said the person familiar with Microsoft.

The two companies quickly agreed on a framework and approximate price and have been working out the details since, the person said. Persson will help out with the transition, though he is unlikely to remain beyond that, according to the person.

Xbox chief Phil Spencer has a close relationship with Persson, and has flown out to have dinners with the Mojang founder, another person familiar with Microsoft said.

It was also reported that Markus “Notch” Persson may not join Microsoft after the deal is done.

Order Minecraft from Amazon here.

Source: Bloomberg