Microsoft has recently increased the price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. While this adjustment introduces new benefits, such as an expanded library of games, access to Fortnite Crew, and improved cloud streaming capabilities, it also quietly removes a previously valued perk.
It has come to light that subscribers to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will no longer receive a 10% discount on Call of Duty Points or BlackCell bundles. This change, which appears to have been implemented recently, significantly impacts regular Call of Duty players who frequently purchase in-game content, eliminating a notable financial incentive for them.
The community`s reaction to these Xbox Game Pass alterations has been largely critical. Many users have expressed their disappointment and frustration in various ways, including through popular “greedy Mr. Krabs” memes that satirize Microsoft`s perceived avarice.
These price increases and ongoing layoffs, which have affected thousands of employees, are occurring during a period of immense profitability for Microsoft. The company reported a substantial $27.2 billion in profit within a single 90-day quarter. CEO Satya Nadella recently addressed the job cuts, acknowledging that the “enigma of success” and the pursuit of profit can often be a “messy” process.
Furthermore, Microsoft recently reached a staggering market capitalization of over $4 trillion, becoming only the second company in history, alongside Nvidia, to achieve such a monumental financial milestone. Although its market cap has since slightly adjusted, it remains impressive at approximately $3.8 trillion.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Multiplayer Beta Underway
In related news concerning Call of Duty, the multiplayer beta for Black Ops 7 is currently active. Access to the beta is available to those who have pre-ordered the game, are current Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, or have managed to obtain a special access code. The open beta phase for all players is scheduled to begin on October 5th.
