In his position, being indepedent, with that kind of success and money, I couldn’t think of any reason why I’d want to get bought out by a big company like MS, or any company for that matter.
Not sure about you, but for me, having a lot of money, and my independence, is enough.
What if the buyout didn’t require working, or at least not for more than a few years, for Microsoft?
I don’t think that is going to happen. I mean, what could Microsoft possibly offer them?
??? they looking to make Minecraft 2 or something ?? … itd suck compared to minecraft + mods
Microsoft reportedly looking to buy Minecraft developer?
Oh my Gosh!! 
Lol!!
I would never take that $2 Billion just because you would still own all rights to the company and games. If, pretend, Microsoft didn’t like that the game only supports 8 players on console, they would force the company to change that. That is something I wouldnt want to live with because the freedom of my game and the happiness of my customers is what I believe is the most important.
Plus this dude is making some serious ca$h!
Where do I sign?
Exactly my thought. Developers like to mention being independent and building their dream game. Imagine building your dream game with a $2 billion budget.
You lose the “independent” bit to get the “$2 billion” bit, though.
I would take the money and go start a new studio.
yep.
I love writing games. But I love playing on jet-skis, surfing, snowboarding, going on holidays, partying, etc etc a lot more.
Wow, a game company with only a single game is worth $2 billion now? Dollar is seriously diluted right now.
EDIT: Its $2.5 billion now.
Also, that makes Notch the first indie game developer BILLIONAIRE!
Only for the duration you are required to work under them as outlined in the contract. I would leave as soon as that time period had expired. Though depending on what Notch even does these days, they may not even need him.
I would take everyone I know on a very long trip around the world.
Typically there’s a non-compete clause that’s separate to the employment clause, and which lasts significantly longer, which is intended to prevent exactly that. So sure, you can leave, but your independence is going to be hampered for some time yet based on what your lawyers and their lawyers jointly agree about what does or does not constitute competition.
A boat trip around the world is a distinct option, though.
I think Microsoft would actually use this for good, IMO they would work more towards educational possibilities then just getting a cool exclusive for Xbox and Windows.
This seems like a poor investment on MS part.
I think Minecraft will soon go the way of the beanie baby and troll dolls, but their projections seem rooted in an assumption that the studio would remain a cash cow.
Seeing as how you have a tiny studio with people who have never been rich, I doubt they would keep up the steam when they’ve already got all the cash they need.
So really, MS is just buying Minecraft and a quick brows through Youtube will show that the game’s cool factor is about to go toxic from over exposure (something MS is in long denial about themselves).
EDIT: Also, when will Microsoft give up on making money in games. It’s not going to happen guys. Go do Office and Programming. And while we’re at it, stop trying to crack into the phone market or reinvent your OS when you have nothing to offer consumers over established products!
For that kind of money I would start 10 new studios, and force them to compete against each other for my affection and praise.