Xbox CEO Phil Spencer delivered disheartening news for Call of Duty enthusiasts, stating, "It will take us time to get the (COD) games on Game Pass." Prior to this announcement, Xbox players had hoped that the franchise would immediately become available on Game Pass following Microsoft's nearly $70 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
However, Game Pass is not the sole subscription service expected to host Call of Duty. Ubisoft and Activision Blizzard have entered a 15-year collaboration to bring titles like COD, Overwatch, Diablo, and others to Ubisoft+.
So, where does PlayStation fit into this evolving scenario? In July, Microsoft and PlayStation reached an agreement to ensure Call of Duty's continued presence on both consoles, even amid potential extensions. Although both companies have been tight-lipped about the exact terms of this deal, court documents shed some light on it.
The question remains: Will Call of Duty become a part of PlayStation Plus?
In the long-standing tradition of console rivalries, Microsoft and Sony haven't always seen eye-to-eye regarding the impending Activision merger. Back in February, reports surfaced suggesting that Sony had ceased communication with Microsoft regarding discussions about the potential merger, despite both companies having previously openly discussed the deal.
However, as we now know, the two sides eventually found common ground. An intriguing twist in the narrative emerged when CharlieIntel reported, "The Microsoft x Sony 10-year deal for Call of Duty that was signed in July – is the same deal Microsoft offered Sony back in December."
The insider also disclosed, "In a court filing, Microsoft says it would grant Sony the right to put Call of Duty on PlayStation Plus."
While it remains unclear whether the court filing guarantees the arrival of COD on PlayStation Plus, this development is undoubtedly exciting news for fans who may have felt envious of the series coming to Xbox Game Pass.