The Call of Duty series won’t be coming to Xbox Game Pass for a number of years due to an already existing deal with Sony.
At the time of writing, the $68 billion deal for Microsoft to acquire Activision Blizzard is still pending. While regulators across the world need convincing that this deal is best for the video games industry.
Microsoft’s Activision takeover is still looming
Xbox gamers have been waiting keenly for the series to come to Xbox Game Pass. However, according to a recent report, even if or when the deal goes through, it could be a number of years until the Call of Duty series arrives on Microsoft’s subscription service.
As it stands, regulators in Saudi Arabia and Brazil have approved Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard. However, Microsoft still needs to gain the approval of the United Kingdom in order to take one step closer to sealing the deal.
It might take years for Call of Duty to come to Xbox Game Pass
Sony believes that if the acquisition goes through, it could “substantially lessen the competition in gaming consoles.” However, Microsoft has argued against that claim. One such arguing case is a pre-existing contractual obligation between Sony PlayStation and Activision Blizzard in relation to the Call of Duty franchise.
According to documents filed to UK regulators a deal is already in place that prevents Call of Duty from being available on Xbox Game Pass. This could remain intact even if Microsoft acquires Activision Blizzard.
“The agreement between Activision Blizzard & Sony includes restrictions on the ability to place Call of Duty titles on Game Pass for a number of years,” the document reads.
How much power does Sony hold?
This will surely be a blow for fans hoping to play Call of Duty on Game Pass. However, one must wonder how much power Sony really holds in relation to this ever-popular FPS series. Furthermore, when will this feud over Call of Duty ever end?
Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard is expected to be finalised in 2023.
Will you be disappointed if it takes years for Call of Duty to come to Xbox Game Pass due to the deal with Sony? Let us know across our social media channels.
While you’re here, be sure to check out our video of the week. 10 of the scariest horror games of all time are shown off. What is your favourite horror game?
Featured Image Credit: Activision Blizzard/Source: Gamesradar