In a recent interview, Xbox head Phil Spencer suggested that new Call of Duty games will release day one on the company’s Game Pass subscription service. This would represent a major strategy shift for Activision Blizzard, which Microsoft is acquiring for $68.7 billion.
Spencer stated that after the deal closes, the “full portfolio” of Activision Blizzard, Bethesda, and Xbox Game Studios titles will launch on Game Pass on day one. While games like Diablo 4 have already been confirmed for day one Game Pass debuts, Call of Duty’s inclusion is more surprising.
A Controversial Move for Microsoft
Under Activision’s previous leadership, Bobby Kotick expressed skepticism about Game Pass’ business model. But Spencer essentially confirmed Kotick no longer makes these decisions post-acquisition.
Launching mammoth franchises like Call of Duty immediately on Game Pass could dramatically boost subscriber numbers. However, some publishers argue this model cuts into lucrative game sales. Sony currently staggers its first-party PS5 releases on PlayStation Plus to avoid this issue.
Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick also recently deemed day one Game Pass launches “a lost opportunity for the publisher.” Microsoft may spark backlash across the industry if the tactic undermines Activision’s sales.
On the other hand, growing Game Pass may be Xbox’s foremost priority, outweighing risks of diminishing Call of Duty purchases. Microsoft likely wants to weaponize the franchise in its subscription war against Sony’s PS Plus.
The Future of Call of Duty
This year’s unnamed Call of Duty is rumored to be a new Black Ops set during the Gulf War era. The game would presumably hit Game Pass alongside its normal October/November launch.
While Call of Duty’s Game Pass strategy remains uncertain, Spencer confirmed work is underway to enable simultaneous console and PC releases for Activision games.
Microsoft’s willingness to disrupt Call of Duty’s traditional business model shows their intent to fully leverage the IP after the buyout. However, upending release norms for one of gaming’s most profitable series is an undeniably bold gamble.
