Microsoft Increases Xbox Game Pass Prices, Stirring Up Controversy over Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Access

https://icaro.icaromediagroup.com/system/images/photos/16288639/original/open-uri20240710-56-9qake1?1720629533
ICARO Media Group
News
10/07/2024 16h27

In a recent announcement, Microsoft has revealed plans to raise the price of its Xbox Game Pass, sparking discussions on the inclusion of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 in the subscription service. The price hike, set to take effect for new members on July 10, 2024, and existing members on September 12, 2024, has left gamers wondering about the future of their favorite titles.

The current Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, priced at $16.99 a month, will see an increase to $19.99 a month. However, the price hike also comes with the introduction of a new tier called Xbox Game Pass Standard, priced at $14.99 a month. This new tier will not include the highly anticipated day one releases, access to the Game Pass Ultimate library, EA Play, Xbox Cloud Gaming, perks, quests, and discounts on games in the Game Pass library.

This move by Microsoft has been met with disappointment from fans, particularly regarding the availability of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. Microsoft had previously confirmed that the latest installment of the popular franchise would be a day one title for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, and Xbox Game Pass for Console members. However, the recent announcement did not make it clear if this still holds true amidst the pricing changes and the introduction of the new standard tier.

Critics argue that Microsoft may have misled players by not explicitly stating that the price increase would be applicable to day one titles and the availability on the different subscription tiers. This has led to frustration and confusion among gamers who were eagerly anticipating the inclusion of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 in their current subscriptions.

Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard for a staggering $68.7 billion has further intensified the conversation surrounding Black Ops 6. Fans are voicing their concerns about the lack of day one access on the new standard tier, considering the significant investment made by Microsoft in acquiring the gaming giant.

While Microsoft maintains that Black Ops 6 will indeed be playable on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, and Xbox Game Pass Console, fans are demanding clarity on whether they will be required to pay the increased subscription fee or switch to the more expensive tier to enjoy the new title.

As gamers await further information and clarification from Microsoft, the pricing changes and the prospect of limited access to day one releases has ignited a heated debate within the gaming community. Fans of the Call of Duty franchise, in particular, are eagerly seeking assurance that their beloved series will continue to be accessible without bearing additional costs.

The future of Xbox Game Pass and its availability of popular titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 remains uncertain as Microsoft rolls out these changes. Players are left to ponder the overall impact on the gaming experience and consider whether the increased prices are justifiable for the services provided.

In the meantime, users are urged to stay updated on the evolving Xbox Game Pass tiers and pricing structure, as Microsoft's decision continues to captivate the attention and scrutiny of gamers worldwide.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

Related