So Bloomberg just posted that COD is going on the game pass. They also released the OW skins on it + prism give away.
I am thinking, we are going to have more in game rare skins linked to Microsoft game pass.
h ttps://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2024-10-25/-call-of-duty-black-ops-6-is-first-big-test-of-microsoft-s-69-billion-deal
- Microsoft’s Activision Deal Under Scrutiny: Microsoft’s $69 billion purchase of Activision Blizzard faces its first significant test with the release of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, the latest installment in the popular Call of Duty series.
- New Strategy with Xbox Game Pass: This release is unique because it’s the first Call of Duty title to launch on Xbox Game Pass from day one, allowing subscribers to access the game for a monthly fee rather than purchasing it outright for $70.
- Subscription Strategy Challenges: Microsoft aims to boost Game Pass subscriptions through this strategy, betting that increased sign-ups will offset any revenue loss from traditional game sales. Despite its focus on Game Pass, Xbox’s subscription growth has plateaued since 2021, with only a 1% increase in 2024.
- Analyst Expectations and Risks: Analysts, including Mat Piscatella from Circana, are cautious about predicting the impact, acknowledging both the potential for subscriber growth and risks, such as users canceling subscriptions after completing the game.
- Context of Microsoft’s Cost-Cutting: The launch comes amid cost-reduction measures at Xbox, including layoffs and project cancellations, partly attributed to pressures from Microsoft’s leadership following the costly Activision acquisition.
- Uncertain Success Metrics: Microsoft has not disclosed specific success criteria for this Game Pass strategy, leaving the industry to monitor whether this pivotal move will validate the $69 billion investment in Activision Blizzard.
