We are now nearing the end, regardless of whether Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard is approved in the necessary markets or not. Both Sony and Microsoft are therefore still trying to convince lawmakers one way or another.
Xbox Corporate Vice President Sarah Bond says, for example, in an interview at Rolling Stone that the full value of Game Pass comes from the overall deep portfolio of titles, and cannot be defined by a single studio purchase, and by extension a single series like Call of Duty.
“We’ve been very clear about our commitment to have our first-party portfolio shipping to Game Pass day and date. We understand that people really value that, but it’s also about diversity of content. It’s not really about any one acquisition. It’s about the depth and breadth of the portfolio all up; from big triple-A games to indie titles to hidden gems. That’s actually what makes Game Pass really valuable.”
Sony has focused on Call of Duty specifically as a key reason why they fear the deal should it go through. What is most important to you about a subscription service like Game Pass?
