Microsoft has officially announced that the highly anticipated Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will be available on Xbox Game Pass at launch. This move signifies a significant expansion of the popular game subscription service, giving all Game Pass subscribers access to the game on day one. This decision comes on the heels of reports indicating that Microsoft was considering bringing the next Call of Duty title to Game Pass.
Microsoft has made a bold move by including Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 on Game Pass. By offering one of the best-selling game franchises in the world to subscribers at no additional cost, Microsoft is likely to see a surge in subscriber growth. However, this decision could potentially impact direct sales of the game, as players may opt to play it through the subscription service instead.
While Microsoft’s Game Pass has seen success in attracting subscribers, the overall gaming subscription market has faced challenges in recent times. Industry analyst Mat Piscatella pointed out that spending on non-mobile game subscription services has stagnated, with minimal growth in recent years. Microsoft’s decision to include Call of Duty on Game Pass comes at a time when the company is aiming to boost subscriber numbers.
Microsoft recently made headlines by shuttering several game studios under its umbrella, including Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin. This move was part of the company’s strategy to focus on its “priority games.” While some titles like Hi-Fi Rush saw success, there were concerns that a significant portion of the player base came from Game Pass subscriptions rather than direct sales.
The decision to release Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 on Game Pass is seen as Microsoft’s major gamble on the subscription service. As one of the biggest and most lucrative game franchises, Call of Duty has a massive fan base that could potentially drive up Game Pass subscriptions. With Microsoft’s recent acquisition of Activision, the move is also a strategic move to leverage the power of its new assets.
Activision, now under Microsoft’s ownership, has confirmed that Black Ops 6 will be the next title in the Call of Duty series. A full reveal for the game is planned for a Direct presentation following the Xbox Games Showcase on June 9. Microsoft has promised fans an in-depth look at gameplay in this new chapter of the Black Ops series during the upcoming event.
Microsoft’s decision to include Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 on Xbox Game Pass marks a significant shift in the gaming industry. While it presents an opportunity for subscriber growth, the move could potentially impact direct sales and the overall dynamics of the gaming market. As the company continues to make strategic moves in the gaming sector, all eyes will be on the upcoming release of Black Ops 6 and its reception among players and subscribers alike.