Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard in January 2022 starts to boil as it enters its second phase. Even tons of regulatory bodies breathe in Microsoft’s neck, Phil Spencer released a statement saying which games from Activision Blizzard’s catalog are deemed to arrive to Game Pass. Big franchises such as Call of Duty, Overwatch, and Diablo are on the list.
As the report claims,
We are expanding choice in two ways: through the creation of Game Pass, which gives players a subscription option; and by bringing more games to mobile platforms, including through our cloud game streaming technology. Subscription services like Game Pass make gaming more affordable and help players from all over the world find their next favorite game.
Game Pass empowers developers to bring more games to more players, not fewer. We intend to make Activision Blizzard’s much-loved library of games – including Overwatch, Diablo and Call of Duty – available in Game Pass and to grow those gaming communities. By delivering even more value to players, we hope to continue growing Game Pass, extending its appeal to mobile phones and any connected device.
Whatever Phil Spencer stated it seems to hold waters, and Xbox Game Pass, if not already, is on the way of becoming the strongest subscription-based video game service, that allows tons of video game titles for dirt cheap. Basically said, the Game Pass deal is something you don’t pass on.
However, there’s a slight problem as UK regulators which have already stated their concerns regarding the inclusion of some of the biggest franchises on Game Pass. The fear pretty much comes from the possibility of a monopoly, which could limit the income of other platforms.
