When we were acquired by Microsoft back in the day, I have to admit I had a lot of concerns about becoming part of "the man".  I certainly have to admit those fears were unfounded, due in very large part to the lengths that Ensemble's upper management has gone to in maintaining our independant culture.  But there are some very cool things that Microsoft does, I'm learning.  One is the "Microsoft Giving" campaign, where they match donations to local charities, such as the Dallas Children's Museum which is an absolute favorite of my boys.  It's a little perq that I never would have thought of even asking for at previous smaller companies, but a really nice one.  Not only is the actual monetary benefit nice for the charities, but they do a great job promoting the campaign for employees.  It put it on my radar, and it probably wouldn't have been otherwise.

So yay Microsoft, especially when we can use all their great benefits and they can leave us mostly alone to make great games for them.  :)