Yo, listen up G-LYFE Nation! Big news drop, so pay attention! Microsoft’s move to snag Activision Blizzard is pretty much in the bag. All that’s left is some red tape and boom, it’s a done deal. But the big question buzzing on everyone’s Xbox controllers and RGB keyboards is what’s gonna happen with Game Pass?
It’s awesome to see anticipation building for Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® III. As we continue to work toward regulatory approval of the Microsoft deal, we’ve been getting some questions whether our upcoming and recently launched games will be available via Game Pass.
While we…
— Activision Blizzard (@ATVI_AB) October 9, 2023
The Skinny on Game Pass and Activision’s A-Listers
Activision Blizzard hopped on Twitter to drop some knowledge. Fans have been spamming the DMs, wanting to know if titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III and Diablo IV will land on Game Pass. Hold onto your headsets, because Activision Blizzard says not this year, fam. Once the ink dries on that Microsoft deal, then they’ll start strategizing on bringing their big guns to Game Pass. Expect that move to kick off sometime next year.
Tick Tock on the Deal Clock
If you’re marking your calendar, the deal is set to close around October 18th. That means if all goes as planned, we’re looking at last-minute decisions getting locked in by year’s end. UK regulators gotta give it the thumbs-up, and there might be a couple of more hoops to jump through, but everyone’s hopeful.
Why Not Now? Timing the Game Releases
Hold your horses! If you’re wondering why the games aren’t launching on Game Pass straight away, think about it. Diablo IV has a big Steam release coming up, plus a new season to keep the hype train going. And don’t forget, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III hasn’t even dropped yet. So, the wait makes sense.
A Look Ahead: Game Pass 2024
Don’t get it twisted; Activision Blizzard and Microsoft aren’t just sitting idle. They’re setting the stage for what titles will roll into Game Pass next year. Xbox VP Sarah Bond did drop a hint a while back that an existing agreement keeps Call of Duty away from Game Pass until January 2025. But that doesn’t rule out Diablo IV or other Activision Blizzard hits making an entrance.
Activision Blizzard’s Expanding Universe
With Microsoft’s Bethesda acquisition being the talk of the town earlier, it’s clear Game Pass is set to become an even bigger powerhouse. Bethesda brought in the big leagues like Doom, Elder Scrolls, and Fallout. So, don’t be surprised when Activision Blizzard starts adding its own juggernauts to the mix.
It’s All in the Details
The $69 billion acquisition is a game-changer, no cap. As we get closer to the October 18 deadline, expect more updates to keep dropping. Until then, keep those controllers charged and stay locked in, because this ride’s just getting started.
