Recent reports have suggested that the upcoming Call Of Duty title will be available on Game Pass from day one. This move comes in line with Microsoft’s strategy of releasing all first-party games on the subscription service. The Wall Street Journal has hinted at this development, citing reliable sources familiar with the matter.
However, this decision has raised some doubts, especially considering Microsoft’s recent acquisition of Activision for a whopping $69 billion. There were concerns about whether the iconic Call Of Duty franchise would follow the same route as Microsoft’s other first-party titles.
The Call Of Duty series has been a consistent top seller every year, with even less critically acclaimed titles performing remarkably well in terms of sales. The move to include it on Game Pass could potentially disrupt the traditional sales model of the franchise. There is a common belief that offering a game on a subscription service might deter players from purchasing it outright, impacting the overall revenue generated.
Microsoft has been heavily invested in promoting Game Pass as the future of gaming. The subscription-based model offers a vast library of games for a monthly fee, providing players with access to a range of titles without the need for individual purchases. The acquisition of Activision Blizzard is seen as a strategic move to boost Game Pass subscriptions, which have reportedly been stagnating in recent years.
Implications on Game Development Studios
The sluggish growth of Game Pass numbers has been linked to the closure of notable game development studios like Arkane Austin and Tango Gameworks, which were acquired by Microsoft through the Bethesda deal. The decision to include high-profile titles like Call Of Duty on Game Pass indicates Microsoft’s commitment to expanding its subscriber base and revitalizing its gaming division.
The timing of this announcement aligns with Microsoft’s upcoming Xbox Showcase event, scheduled to take place on June 9th during the E3 week. This strategic move aims to generate excitement among gamers and showcase the potential of Game Pass as a key player in the future of gaming. The inclusion of Call Of Duty on the subscription service is likely to be a focal point of the event, highlighting Microsoft’s ambitious plans for the gaming industry.
The decision to release the next Call Of Duty title on Game Pass signifies a significant shift in the gaming landscape. Microsoft’s emphasis on subscription-based services and the acquisition of major publishers like Activision point towards a future where traditional purchasing models may become less prevalent. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it will be intriguing to see how players respond to this changing paradigm and the impact it has on game development and distribution.
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