Microsoft confirms plans to bring franchises like COD and Diablo to Game Pass

We've all assumed that Activision Blizzard games will come to Xbox Game Pass some time after Microsoft completes its acquisition of the company. Today in response to questions around the deal, Xbox head, Phil Spencer, confirmed exactly that. 

In a lengthy blog post intended to reassure regulators, gamers and developers, Spencer responded to concerns over Microsoft owning franchises like Call of Duty, likening the series to Minecraft and confirming plans to keep it multiplatform. However, Microsoft will gain its advantage in the subscription service arena, as Spencer also confirmed that Activision Blizzard's major titles will come to Xbox Game Pass.

“We intend to make Activision Blizzard’s much-loved library of games – including Overwatch, Diablo and Call of Duty – available in Game Pass and to grow those gaming communities”, Spencer writes. Interestingly, World of Warcraft was not mentioned, so we are unsure if there will be any major changes to how the MMO is handled in the future.

Having major franchises like Diablo and Call of Duty available through Xbox Game Pass would give Microsoft's service an advantage over rival subscriptions, which is something that regulators like the CMA might take into account when evaluating the pending acquisition.

KitGuru Says: What Activision or Blizzard game would you like to see come to Game Pass the most? 

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