Microsoft’s Bold Move
Call of Duty is a cornerstone of the gaming industry, and Microsoft’s recent decision to include Black Ops 6 in Game Pass showcases its commitment to the popular franchise. With the acquisition of Activision Blizzard, this move signifies Microsoft’s strategic focus on attracting more players to its subscription service.
The Fallout
Recent reports from Bloomberg shed light on the repercussions of Microsoft’s decision. Former employees, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that the inclusion of Black Ops 6 on Game Pass resulted in substantial financial losses for Microsoft. Estimates suggest that the company lost over $300 million by offering the game on the subscription service from day one.
A Lesson Learned
Market data revealed that the majority of Black Ops 6 sales in the United States during its launch month were on PlayStation consoles, indicating a misstep in Microsoft’s strategy. Despite the acquisition of Activision and the addition of the highly anticipated title to Game Pass, Microsoft failed to see a significant increase in subscriber numbers. This setback prompted the company to reevaluate its approach, leading to changes in pricing and policies within the service.
About the Author
