Microsoft to Release Next Call of Duty Game on Subscription Service

Microsoft is shaking up the gaming industry by announcing that the upcoming installment of the popular “Call of Duty” video game franchise will be available on its subscription service. This move marks a significant departure from the company’s longstanding practice of selling the game independently.

Traditionally, “Call of Duty” games have been sold a la carte, with each new edition priced at around $70. However, Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard in a $69 billion deal last year has paved the way for this strategic shift. The first-person shooter franchise has generated over $30 billion in lifetime revenue, making it one of the most successful entertainment properties.

The decision to include “Call of Duty” in the Xbox Game Pass subscription service is expected to be officially announced during Microsoft’s annual Xbox showcase on June 9. By doing so, Microsoft aims to attract more players to Game Pass, which already boasts 34 million subscribers. However, some analysts speculate that this move could impact overall sales of the game.

Xbox President Sarah Bond recently revealed that all first-party Xbox games will be available on Game Pass on their launch day. With the addition of “Call of Duty,” Microsoft is further bolstering its Netflix-style gaming subscription service, challenging the dominance of Sony’s PlayStation consoles.

In summary, Microsoft’s decision to bring “Call of Duty” to Game Pass represents a bold step toward reshaping the gaming landscape. As fans eagerly await the next installment, the industry watches closely to see how this move will impact both subscription numbers and game sales.