Gamers around the world have long waited for the inclusion of the Call of Duty series in the Xbox Game Pass library. Microsoft, in an effort to diversify its selection and attract more subscribers, has added Call of Duty to its popular subscription service for the first time. However, the game they’ve chosen to debut with is Modern Warfare III, a title that did not fare well with critics or fans. With generally poor reviews, this choice has left many players questioning Microsoft’s strategy and hoping for better experiences with future titles.
Modern Warfare III has faced a barrage of criticism since its release, and its addition to Xbox Game Pass isn’t likely to wash away the bad taste it left among its player base. Reviewers did not hold back, frequently citing issues with its single-player campaign and Zombies mode. One prominent review by IGN critic Simon Cardy labeled the campaign as “shallow” and “dull,” calling it the worst in the Call of Duty series. Additionally, Jump Dash Roll’s Derek Johnson echoed similar sentiments, arguing that the campaign wasn’t even worth a playthrough and that the Zombies mode offered only marginally better gameplay.
Despite the poor reception, Modern Warfare III’s presence on Xbox Game Pass could still prove beneficial in some ways. The game’s addition might encourage players who missed or had been skeptical about its initial release to give it a shot on a more affordable platform. Plus, for die-hard fans of the franchise, completing the collection and replaying every installment might hold some appeal, even if Modern Warfare III ranks low in their list of favorites.
While Modern Warfare III might be underwhelming, the news isn’t all grim for Xbox Game Pass subscribers. The service is also slated to offer day-one access to Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 in October. Although specifics about the new game remain under wraps, the excitement surrounding its release is palpable. Many within the gaming community are cautiously optimistic, hoping that Black Ops 6 will bring back the elements that once made Call of Duty games iconic.
Microsoft’s decision to debut the Call of Duty series on Xbox Game Pass with Modern Warfare III has certainly raised eyebrows, given the game's lukewarm reception. However, this might serve as a calculated move to engage subscribers while keeping the anticipation high for future releases. As players eye the upcoming launch of Black Ops 6, there is an air of cautious optimism that the new title will redeem the franchise’s reputation within the Xbox Game Pass library. Only time will tell whether this strategy will succeed, but for now, gamers can only hope for a much more compelling experience with the next installment.