Despite rumors of exclusion, Xbox confirms that first-party titles, including Call of Duty, will be available on Game Pass on their release day.


Xbox Maintains Commitment to Game Pass Day One Releases

The landscape of gaming is ever-changing, and the evolution of gaming services is a significant part of this transformation. One such service that has taken the gaming world by storm is Xbox's Game Pass. In a rapidly growing industry where consumers crave both quality and convenience, Game Pass has managed to carve out a niche that resonates with gamers worldwide.

Recently, some concerns were raised amongst the gaming community following a report suggesting that future releases of the iconic Call of Duty series may not be included in the Game Pass subscription from day one. This caused quite a stir, as subscribers to the service have become accustomed to accessing a plethora of games, including all first-party titles, the moment they launch.

To address these speculations, Sarah Bond, Xbox president, made a statement at the Bloomberg Technology Summit that emphasized Xbox's commitment to "day one" releases on Game Pass. She illustrated the philosophy driving Game Pass, painting it as much more than a mere subscription—it's a gateway to an expansive portfolio of games that members can enjoy from the very first day of release.

Bond highlighted the enduring appeal of Game Pass, noting that the key factor differentiating it from other services is the promise that every game developed by Xbox’s studios is available to subscribers immediately upon its release. She reassured fans that this was a central aspect of the Xbox experience and one the company intends to uphold.

Specifically, Bond addressed the inclusion of titles from across the entire slate of games, indirectly encompassing future Activision Blizzard titles, such as Call of Duty. This statement quelled the rumors and confirmed that Xbox gamers can continue to look forward to enjoying blockbuster franchises like Call of Duty as part of their Game Pass membership right from day one.

This reassurance appeased concerns raised by the gaming community; however, another aspect of the report suggested that Xbox might be considering a price hike for Game Pass Ultimate, potentially to accommodate the cost of blockbuster games like Call of Duty. While no significant updates have been provided on this front, the mention of a price change has led to speculation about the future pricing strategy for the popular service.

As for the effect on the gaming community, the news led to a mix of relief and anticipation. The "day one" release commitment is a significant selling point for Game Pass and has contributed largely to the service's popularity. This feature has not only ensured that gamers are part of the immediate gaming conversation upon new releases but has also provided value that justifies the subscription cost. With the affirmation of continued access to high-profile games as soon as they launch, subscribers have a sense of confidence in the value of Game Pass.

Looking forward, Sarah Bond’s statements provide a bright outlook for Xbox users. As 2023 unfolds, the gaming community has been promised an array of exciting titles to appear on Game Pass. Big games and franchise favorites are anticipated to make their way into the portfolio, providing Xbox players with reasons to be optimistic and excited about what's coming next. For now, the focus remains on delivering quality gaming experiences to subscribers, with the assurance that the integrity of the Game Pass offering will remain intact.

As new titles join the Game Pass library, and as the gaming industry looks towards trends of accessibility and comprehensive subscriptions, Xbox's firm position ensures that its service will remain a hub for gamers to access the latest and greatest without delay. With the promise of consistency in "day one" releases, Xbox continues to solidify its position in the competitive gaming market and fosters a strong relationship with its user base—one that is grounded in trust and an understanding of the modern gamer's expectations.

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Adam Devine

Hey, it's Adam Devine here! When I'm not out and about, you can bet I'm either casting a line, hoping for the biggest catch, or lounging at home, delivering some epic fatalities in Mortal Kombat. Life's all about the thrill of the catch and the perfect combo move. Whether I'm battling fish or virtual foes, it's all in a day's fun for me. Let's get reel and play on!

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