Microsoft has put speculation to rest regarding the potential launch of a new, more expensive tier of Game Pass. The company has confirmed that Call of Duty Black Ops 6 will be available to play upon launch on all existing tiers of Xbox Game Pass.
The announcement of Call of Duty Black Ops 6 joining Xbox Game Pass on day one marks a significant milestone, as it is the first Call of Duty game to be included in the subscription service. Microsoft’s $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard has undoubtedly played a role in this partnership.
While Xbox executives have previously emphasized the potential boost in sales that Game Pass can provide for games, some publishers remain skeptical. Former Activision boss Bobby Kotick, for instance, had reservations about putting Call of Duty into subscription services. In contrast, Sony, Microsoft’s console rival, does not release its new exclusives directly into its subscription service.
Rumors have been circulating that Microsoft planned to introduce a new, higher-priced tier of Game Pass specifically for day-one titles, potentially locking games like Black Ops 6 behind it. However, a Microsoft spokesperson has clarified that this is not the case for the launch of Black Ops 6 later this year.
According to the spokesperson, “Upon launch, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will be playable on Xbox and PC for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, and Xbox Game Pass for Console members.”
While this statement confirms the availability of Black Ops 6 on existing Game Pass tiers, it does not rule out potential changes to pricing or the addition of new tiers in the future. Microsoft may still consider adjustments to the existing subscription options as it aims to attract more customers and increase its Game Pass subscriber base.
Releasing a major title like Call of Duty into Game Pass on day one poses a potential risk of cannibalizing sales, as the franchise traditionally generates significant revenue from game purchases. However, Microsoft is likely banking on the inclusion of Black Ops 6 in Game Pass to act as a major draw for new subscribers.
It’s important to note that Microsoft is currently undergoing organizational changes within its gaming business, with staff reductions and studio closures. The closure of Tango Gameworks, the developer behind Hi-Fi Rush, and Arkane Austin, the developer of Redfall, have raised concerns about further cuts within the company.
As Microsoft continues to shape the future of its gaming ecosystem, the inclusion of high-profile titles like Call of Duty in Game Pass reflects the company’s commitment to providing a compelling subscription service for gamers.
Source: IGN
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