According to a report by Windows Central, the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy is set to join Xbox Game Pass in August. This collection includes remastered versions of the first three Crash Bandicoot games, originally released for the PlayStation. The addition of this popular platformer to the Game Pass library would provide subscribers with access to a classic gaming experience, while at the same time updating the graphics and improving (if such a thing is possible) the gameplay mechanics.

This potential inclusion in Xbox Game Pass would further expand the service’s diverse game library, offering subscribers more variety in their gaming options but we have to ask why is it taking so long for games from the Activision Blizzard King stable to be added to Game Pass. The deal cost Microsoft $70B and right now, with the exception of Diablo, there is very little gamers can point to as a positive outcome of that deal.

Slow Addition of Activision Blizzard King Games to Xbox Game Pass

Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard King was a significant move, promising to bring a wealth of popular games to Xbox Game Pass. However, the pace at which these games are being added has been slower than many gamers anticipated. This deliberate approach by Microsoft raises questions about the strategy behind the rollout and what it means for the future of Game Pass.

Games Slated for Release and Their Timing

As of now, Microsoft has announced a staggered release of several Activision Blizzard King titles on Xbox Game Pass. Diablo IV has already been released and Call of Duty Black Ops 6 will release on October 25 2024. We assume all future COD titles will receive the same treatment and be day one released on Xbox Game Pass. Overwatch 2 is already free to play and we have yet to hear any news about the Warcraft franchise hitting consoles or the Game Pass service.

Additionally, older titles from Activision’s extensive catalog, including classic “Crash Bandicoot” and “Spyro the Dragon” games, are anticipated to make their way to the service. Yet, these too have been slow to appear, with Microsoft providing limited updates on their expected arrival.

Reasons for the Slow Addition

There are several potential reasons behind Microsoft’s measured pace in adding Activision Blizzard King games to Game Pass:

• Licensing and Legal Complexities: The integration of new titles into Game Pass is not a straightforward process. Many games come with existing licensing agreements, particularly with third-party platforms and services. Renegotiating these agreements or waiting for them to expire can delay the inclusion of these games on Game Pass
• Technical Optimization: Ensuring that games run smoothly across Xbox consoles and PC can be a time-consuming process. Activision Blizzard titles are known for their high-quality graphics and complex gameplay mechanics, which require significant optimization to meet Game Pass’s performance standards. Microsoft may be taking the necessary time to ensure a seamless user experience.
• Content Strategy and Marketing: Microsoft likely wants to avoid overwhelming the market with a sudden influx of games. A staggered release schedule allows for sustained marketing campaigns, keeping the hype alive over a longer period. This approach also gives each game its moment in the spotlight, potentially maximizing player engagement and subscription rates.
• Regulatory Scrutiny: The acquisition of Activision Blizzard King has attracted significant regulatory attention worldwide. Microsoft may be moving cautiously to avoid any actions that could be perceived as anti-competitive or that might further complicate regulatory approvals in various jurisdictions.
• Focus on Quality Over Quantity: By slowly rolling out new titles, Microsoft ensures each game meets high-quality standards and offers the best possible experience to players. This strategy helps maintain the overall reputation of Game Pass as a premium service.

Impact on Gamers and the Future of Game Pass

The slower-than-expected addition of Activision Blizzard King games has understandably led to some frustration among gamers eager to dive into their favorite titles. However, this approach could ultimately benefit the Game Pass service by maintaining a steady stream of content, avoiding content droughts, and keeping subscribers engaged over time.

Moreover, the inclusion of more family-friendly games, such as those from the “Crash Bandicoot” and “Spyro the Dragon” series, could broaden the appeal of Game Pass to younger audiences and families. This diversification is crucial for Xbox as it seeks to expand its market reach and compete with other gaming platforms.

Conclusion

While the slow addition of Activision Blizzard King games to Xbox Game Pass may be disappointing to some, it reflects a strategic approach by Microsoft. By navigating licensing complexities, ensuring technical optimization, maintaining a steady content strategy, and complying with regulatory scrutiny, Microsoft aims to enhance the overall quality and appeal of Game Pass. In the long run, this careful, measured approach is likely to pay off, providing gamers with a consistently excellent experience and a diverse array of titles to enjoy.