Are Call of Duty Games on Game Pass? A Deep Dive
Currently, Call of Duty games are not universally available on Game Pass. While some older titles are accessible through the service, the most recent releases are typically not included at launch.
The Call of Duty and Xbox Saga: A Shifting Landscape
The acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft has fundamentally altered the gaming landscape, raising numerous questions about the future of Call of Duty and its availability across different platforms. One of the most pressing concerns for gamers is whether this acquisition will lead to Call of Duty games becoming readily available on Xbox Game Pass, Microsoft’s popular subscription service. The situation is complex, influenced by contractual obligations, business strategies, and the evolving dynamics of the gaming industry.
Understanding Xbox Game Pass
Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service offering access to a library of hundreds of games for a monthly fee. There are various tiers, including Game Pass for Console, Game Pass for PC, and Game Pass Ultimate, which combines both. The service offers several benefits:
- Cost-effectiveness: Instead of buying individual games, subscribers gain access to a vast library for a fixed monthly price.
- Variety: Game Pass includes titles across various genres, from AAA blockbusters to indie gems.
- Day-one releases: Some first-party Microsoft titles, like Starfield and Forza, are available on Game Pass from the day of their release.
The Acquisition’s Impact
Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, the parent company of Call of Duty developer Infinity Ward, has paved the way for future integration of the franchise into the Xbox ecosystem. However, the full impact of this acquisition on Game Pass availability is still unfolding. Legal hurdles, contractual agreements with Sony, and Microsoft’s own business strategies all play a role.
Current Status and Historical Context
While the most recent Call of Duty titles haven’t launched directly onto Game Pass, some older titles have been added at various times. This suggests a potential long-term strategy of incorporating the franchise more comprehensively into the service, but it’s not a certainty.
Predicting the Future of Call of Duty on Game Pass
Predicting the future is always risky, but based on the current situation, several scenarios are plausible:
- Day-One Releases: Future Call of Duty titles may launch on Game Pass on the same day they are released for purchase, similar to other first-party Microsoft games.
- Delayed Integration: Microsoft might choose to add new Call of Duty games to Game Pass sometime after their initial release, perhaps a year or two down the line.
- Partial Integration: Only certain Call of Duty titles (e.g., older games, campaign modes) might be added to Game Pass, while the latest releases remain available only for purchase.
Factors Influencing the Decision
Several factors influence the decision to add Call of Duty games to Game Pass:
- Profitability: Microsoft must weigh the potential revenue loss from individual game sales against the gains from increased Game Pass subscriptions.
- Competition: The availability of Call of Duty on Game Pass could impact PlayStation sales and potentially influence Sony’s strategies.
- Subscriber Growth: Adding Call of Duty to Game Pass could attract a significant number of new subscribers, boosting the service’s overall value.
How to Stay Informed
Keeping up-to-date with the latest information about Call of Duty and Game Pass requires staying tuned to official channels.
- Xbox Wire: Microsoft’s official news blog for all things Xbox.
- Call of Duty Blog: The official source for news and updates on the Call of Duty franchise.
- Gaming News Websites: Reputable gaming news sites offer coverage and analysis of industry developments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will the next Call of Duty game be on Game Pass at launch?
It is highly probable that future Call of Duty titles will eventually be available on Game Pass, but whether they will launch on the service day one remains uncertain. Keep an eye on official announcements from Microsoft and Activision.
Are any Call of Duty games currently on Game Pass?
As of now, a limited number of older Call of Duty titles are available through Game Pass. Be sure to check the Game Pass library to confirm which specific titles are currently included.
What happens if I pre-ordered a Call of Duty game before it was announced for Game Pass?
If you pre-ordered a Call of Duty game and it is subsequently announced for Game Pass, you can cancel your pre-order and access the game through your Game Pass subscription.
Will adding Call of Duty to Game Pass affect its quality or development?
Microsoft has stated that the acquisition aims to improve the quality and innovation of Call of Duty games. It is unlikely that Game Pass availability would negatively impact the development process.
Will all Game Pass tiers include Call of Duty?
It is likely that Call of Duty games will be included in the Game Pass Ultimate tier, which offers the most comprehensive benefits. The availability of specific titles on lower-tier subscriptions remains to be seen.
How can I request a specific Call of Duty game be added to Game Pass?
While there is no direct way to guarantee a specific game will be added, expressing your interest through official Xbox channels (such as social media) can help gauge demand and potentially influence decisions.
Does Game Pass include all the DLC for Call of Duty games?
Generally, Game Pass provides access to the base game only. Downloadable content (DLC) such as map packs and character skins are typically sold separately. However, some older titles might include some DLC packs.
What happens if a Call of Duty game is removed from Game Pass?
If a Call of Duty game is removed from Game Pass, you will no longer be able to access it through the subscription. You would need to purchase the game separately to continue playing.
Will playing Call of Duty on Game Pass affect my cross-platform play?
Playing Call of Duty on Game Pass will not affect your ability to play cross-platform with friends on other platforms like PlayStation or PC, assuming cross-play is enabled for that particular title.
Are there regional differences in Call of Duty’s Game Pass availability?
Yes, regional differences can sometimes exist in Game Pass game availability due to licensing agreements and other factors. Check your local Game Pass library for the most accurate information.
If I purchase a Call of Duty game that’s also on Game Pass, can I get a refund?
Refund eligibility depends on Microsoft’s refund policy and the specific circumstances of your purchase. Contact Xbox Support to inquire about a refund.
Does Game Pass Ultimate include both the console and PC versions of Call of Duty?
Generally, yes. Game Pass Ultimate includes access to both console and PC versions of games that are available on both platforms. If a Call of Duty title is available on both console and PC Game Pass, Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can typically access both versions.