As Hollywood still grapples with strikes and other issues, Disney CEO Bob Iger is pressed on a different matter: gaming. According toBloomberg, advisers at the company want to expand its video game outreach by transforming Disney from distributing game license to a gaming giant. However, Iger is reportedly not too keen on the idea.
Bloomberg’s report outlines the struggles facing Disney and its CEO in detail. Options like gambling, through ESPN and sports betting, have been something that Iger reportedly pushed back on but has now relented on. For gaming, while Disney has licensed their properties to studios, it sounds like Iger’s deputies want Disney more involved in the process. One potential option raised by the report is an acquisition, suggesting Electronic Arts as a suitable pick-up.
EA, one of gaming’s biggest publishers, seems like an ideal candidate to buy. Over the years, the company has created hugely successful franchises likeTitanfall,Mass Effect, andBattlefield. Money-wise, the gaming giant is responsible for theEA Sportscatalog of games, which rake in millions a year and lines up with its ESPN interests. EA also has a history with Disney, as they licensedStar Warsfor theirBattlefrontandJediseries of games.
Curiously, it sounds like Bob Iger isn’t interested in the idea right now. While no reason is given, it’s likely that it’s not a direction he wants to take Disney. These all are rumors, so, much like the story of Disney’s Kingdom Hearts, don’t take it too seriously.
