Don’t expect Call of Duty to come to Xbox Game Pass anytime soon, even if Microsoft closes Activision purchase

Undoubtedly, one of the most attractive aspects that Microsoft was able to close the purchase of Activision Blizzard is that, most likely, the vast majority of its library of games, including games call of Dutywill be available through Xbox Game Pass. However, Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, warned that the move it won’t happen soon; even if the acquisition is completed within the next few months.

The above mentions that not enough to complete the purchase integrate all games into your service. In a specific case call of DutyGiven the importance of the game in the industry and existing agreements with other companies, they will have to put in extra effort to bring it to Xbox Game Pass. This, of course, takes time.

So Phil Spencer took advantage of the Gamescom 2023 spotlight to temper the expectations of those hoping to see call of Duty on Xbox Game Pass for the foreseeable future. Thus, we can now confirm that Modern Warfare 3the next installment in the franchise will not be available at subscription launch.

“I want people to know that work to be done to port games to Xbox Game Pass. So for people who think that if the deal closes, everything will be available. [incluyendo Call of Duty] service is not correct. This was not the case with our other acquisitions. There is work that we must do first. So it will take time for these titles to appear in the catalog,” said Phil Spencer. IGN

Rights manager. When Microsoft closed its 2021 Bethesda purchase in exchange for $7.500 million, it took months to see games publisher on Xbox Game Pass.

However, With call of Duty this period can be extended even further. Because? Activision has already signed various associations around its franchise. For example, she has an agreement with Sony to release exclusive content on PlayStation consoles. Only users of this platform will be able to enjoy the beta first Modern Warfare 3.

So Microsoft will have two options. call of Duty on Xbox Game Pass. Wait for the completion of already concluded contracts or restructure them with the parties involved. Provided that the latter, of course, will be ready to revise the negotiations.

According to documents released during the Microsoft v. FTC lawsuit, agreement between Sony and Activision on First person shooter will end in 2024. And he call of Duty Perhaps in 2025 it will appear in the Xbox Game Pass.

Another thing to consider is that Microsoft plans to sell Cloud Gaming rights to Activision games in Europe to Ubisoft. This is done with the intention of getting a green light from the CMA – the UK regulator – to proceed with the purchase. Because Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offers the ability to play in the cloud, including call of Duty they will have to come to an agreement with Ubisoft.