One of the most talked-about topics during the controversy surrounding Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard was, without a doubt, the availability of Call of Duty. Now that the acquisition has been finalized and the company once led by Bobby Kotick is now under the Xbox umbrella, fans are wondering if games from the franchise will come to Xbox Game Pass.
When the deal was sealed, Microsoft assured that Activision Blizzard games would eventually join their subscription service. Diablo IV, which joined the catalog earlier this year, was the first step in that direction.
Regarding Call of Duty, Phil Spencer stated in 2024 that, for technical reasons, the games from the saga had not yet arrived on Xbox Game Pass. As new clues emerge hinting that Microsoft plans to release classic franchise games on the service, a report has reignited hope of seeing the new installments on day 1.
Related Video: Sony and Microsoft are blinded by Call of Duty
The new 2024 Call of Duty will be available day 1 on Xbox Game Pass, according to report
A few days ago, a report from journalist Tom Warren of The Verge highlighted that Microsoft executives are discussing the possibility of not adding the new 2024 installment and future titles of the saga to the subscription service. It was reported that there are doubts about the potential negative impact this strategy would have on the sales of one of the market's most profitable franchises.
Xbox is at a crossroads as it must deal with the slowdown in subscriptions to its initiative. In this regard, Brad Hilderbrand, Microsoft's former senior PR lead, was categorical, stating that the company needs to add high-profile games, like Call of Duty and Grand Theft Auto VI, to ensure the service's sustainability.
Now, a recent report from the Wall Street Journal indicates that Microsoft has decided to launch the new 2024 Call of Duty on Xbox Game Pass on day 1. It is speculated that the official announcement will take place at the next Xbox Showcase on June 9, where more details about the new installment will also be revealed.
However, the report does not highlight whether the company plans to charge more for Call of Duty or if it intends for it to only be available in the Ultimate plan of the subscription service. Recall that last week's The Verge report also highlighted that the tech giant is considering raising the subscription price.
Previously, Sarah Bond, head of Xbox, stated that all first-party Xbox games will launch day 1 on Xbox Game Pass. Of course, we'll have to wait to learn all the details. Meanwhile, analyst Daniel Ahmad shared his opinion, believing that adding the new title of the saga to Xbox Game Pass from day 1 is the best strategy.
"This is the right move for Microsoft because it's a multi-platform title selling for $70 USD outside the subscription and because it's a service game with in-game purchases. That model can also work for other Xbox first-party projects," the expert stated.
Regarding the new Call of Duty installment, it is speculated that it will be a continuation of the Black Ops subseries. Previous rumors suggest it will debut this fall.
But tell us, do you think it's a good strategy for the new saga games to be available at no extra cost on the service from day 1? Let us know in the comments.
Comments
Best
New