M&A and investment in the game sector Competition law in the game sector Competition law in the game sector In recent years, the video game when a company or group of sector has grown into a USD180bn companies has excessive market global entertainment and power. This is based on the technology industry, with high levels understanding that properly of investment and M&A at significant functioning, transparent and valuations. This rapid expansion competitive markets tend to and increasing consolidation, produce greater efficiencies and particularly as the role of so-called innovations and provide better Big Tech conglomerates has also outcomes for the economy and grown, has attracted increasing consumers in terms of pricing, scrutiny from regulators. choice, and product innovation. This trend is particularly prominent Competition law is focused on: in the field of competition law (also preventing agreements and known as ‘antitrust’ law). This area collusive behaviour between of law has quickly become a feature groups of companies which limit of much video game investment competition (often known as and M&A and is also increasingly cartels or trusts) challenging many structural ensuring companies don’t impose features and business practices unduly restrictive conditions on in the industry. parties either up or downstream What is competition law? from them The central mission of competition preventing abusive behaviour law is to ensure markets are truly by companies which have such competitive and free from the market power they can act distortions which can be caused without adequate checks from 25