The acquisition of Activision by Microsoft raised questions about the future of Call of Duty. Now, with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 released under Microsoft’s banner, the focus shifts to Game Pass availability. Is this year’s biggest title honoring Xbox’s commitment to day-one releases on the service? This guide clarifies Black Ops 6’s presence on Game Pass and the subscription tiers required to play.
Soldiers fight in a shopping plaza in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.
While Black Ops 6 maintains its cross-platform compatibility, its availability on Game Pass isn’t straightforward. Xbox has restructured its Game Pass tiers, impacting which subscriptions grant access to day-one releases like Black Ops 6.
Understanding Game Pass Tiers and Black Ops 6 Availability
Black Ops 6 is available on Game Pass, but only for specific subscription levels. The crucial detail is that access to first-party day-one titles, including Black Ops 6, is now exclusive to PC Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate subscribers.
This means subscribers with the Core or Standard Game Pass subscriptions won’t have access to Black Ops 6 through the service. To play, they’ll need to either upgrade to Ultimate or purchase the game separately.
Cost Comparison: Game Pass vs. Purchasing Black Ops 6
Currently, Game Pass Ultimate costs $20 per month, while PC Game Pass is priced at $12 per month. The standard edition of Black Ops 6 costs $70. Subscribing to Game Pass can offer significant savings, especially for extended gameplay or if you intend to explore other titles within the Game Pass library.
However, it’s essential to remember that unsubscribing from Game Pass will revoke access to Black Ops 6 unless purchased individually.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for You
Black Ops 6 is indeed on Game Pass, but only with the right subscription. PC Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate offer day-one access, presenting a cost-effective option compared to a direct purchase, particularly for those already engaged with the Game Pass ecosystem. However, the continued subscription is necessary for continued access. Choose the option that aligns best with your gaming habits and budget.
