Call of Duty Games Coming to Xbox Game Pass: What You Need to Know
In an exciting development for gamers, classic Call of Duty games are potentially making their way to Xbox Game Pass, specifically for PC users. This news comes on the heels of Microsoft’s historic acquisition of Activision Blizzard, and it promises to enhance the gaming experience for fans of the franchise.
The Activision Acquisition and Its Implications
In January 2023, Microsoft announced its plans to acquire Activision Blizzard King for a staggering $69 billion, marking the largest acquisition in video game history. After nearly a year filled with legal scrutiny and regulatory hearings, the deal was officially completed in October 2023. This acquisition has allowed Microsoft to expand its gaming portfolio significantly, adding titles like Call of Duty, Diablo IV, and Crash Bandicoot to Xbox Game Pass.
Old Classics Reimagined for a New Audience
Despite the influx of new titles, one notable absence from Game Pass has been the older Call of Duty games. However, recent developments suggest that this may soon change. On December 9, 2023, Twitter user Knoebel highlighted that Activision quietly added the PC versions of Call of Duty, Call of Duty: United Offensive, and Call of Duty 2 to the Microsoft Store. Interestingly, these games show a release date of December 9, 2024, sparking speculation about their imminent availability on the Game Pass platform.
Why Only PC for Now?
Currently, Microsoft does not support linking Steam and Game Pass accounts. This limitation makes it logical for Microsoft to list these classic titles on its own storefront, paving the way for their inclusion in the PC Game Pass subscription service. The original Call of Duty and its expansion, United Offensive, were released in 2003 and never made it to consoles. Unless there’s a dedicated effort to port these games, it seems unlikely they will appear on Xbox consoles.
The Possibility of Modern Warfare
However, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, released in 2007, is a different story. Available on Xbox 360 and backward compatible on Xbox One and Series X/S consoles, it stands a good chance of being added not only to Xbox Game Pass but also to the PC version. This could provide a bridge for fans of the series who wish to experience classic gameplay alongside modern titles.
What’s Next for Call of Duty on Game Pass?
The addition of these classic games to the Microsoft Store is a clear indication of Microsoft’s intent to bolster its gaming library. The upcoming Game Awards may serve as a stage for further announcements, so fans will want to keep their eyes peeled for any surprises that Phil Spencer or Geof Keighley might unveil.
Conclusion
The potential arrival of classic Call of Duty titles on Xbox Game Pass opens up exciting opportunities for gamers. With Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, the landscape of gaming is shifting, and fans can expect more iconic titles to become accessible. As we await official announcements, the excitement builds for what could be a nostalgic return to one of gaming’s most beloved franchises.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will older Call of Duty games be available on Xbox Game Pass?
Yes, there are indications that older Call of Duty games are being prepared for PC Game Pass, with recent additions to the Microsoft Store suggesting this move.
2. What games were recently added to the Microsoft Store?
The games added include Call of Duty, Call of Duty: United Offensive, and Call of Duty 2.
3. Why are these games only available on PC?
Currently, Microsoft does not support linking Steam and Game Pass accounts, which makes it logical for these titles to be listed on their own storefront.
4. Is Modern Warfare coming to Game Pass?
It is likely, as Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare is backward compatible on Xbox consoles and has a chance of being included in both Xbox and PC Game Pass.
5. What are the implications of the Activision acquisition?
Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard allows it to expand its gaming library significantly, including the addition of popular franchise titles to Game Pass.
6. When was the Activision deal finalized?
The deal was officially completed in October 2023, following nearly a year of legal proceedings.
7. Are there plans for ports of older Call of Duty games to consoles?
Unless Activision commits to a studio for porting, it seems unlikely that older Call of Duty games will appear on consoles.
8. What is the significance of the Game Awards for gamers?
The Game Awards could provide a platform for announcing new titles and updates, including potential additions to Xbox Game Pass.
9. Will there be more classic games added to Game Pass in the future?
Given Microsoft’s strategy, it is likely that more classic titles will be added to Game Pass as they seek to enrich their gaming catalog.
10. Where can I find more gaming news and updates?
For the latest gaming news and updates, visit JoystickSpot.com.
Tags: Call of Duty, Xbox Game Pass, Activision Blizzard, Gaming News, Classic Games, Microsoft Acquisition, Modern Warfare, PC Gaming