Xbox: 11 Studios Microsoft Might Buy Next
9. Bungie
Former Xbox first-party superstars and creators of the Halo franchise. They split in 2007, finishing on series high-note Halo: Reach.
Next, the Destiny series, has been a bumpy road: a disappointing first game, and a tense relationship with Activision - they recently separated and took control of the property to (a slightly) better reception.
Why Likely:
Halo + Bungie = match made in heaven. Especially since 343 Industries have been struggling with the IP. So Microsoft would certainly want it... but would Bungie?
The studio left because they were sick of being the Halo guys, but since splitting, due to financial pressure, Bungie are now the Destiny guys. Maybe Master Chief isn't looking so bad now?
The Xbox division is also a much different company now. They allow devs to operate in a hands-off capacity with steady money incoming. It's a concept Bungie could embrace after their recent rollercoaster history with publishers.
Why Not:
No doubt, it can't be ignored: why would Bungie return after a complex divorce? Especially since they just recently broke loose of Activision - but weirder things have happened (cough* Bethesda *cough).
There are some substantial rumors indicating that THIS is a real thing, but also that talks on multiple occasions have fallen through because the price is too high.
If Halo: Infinite flops, you can bet Microsoft will give them the price they want... but not before then.
Buying Temperature: Lukewarm