Activision has today released a statement that quashes the rumours: they are not readying a subscription plan and have no intention of charging users to play their multiplayer Call Of Duty games online.
Even though they have created some of the most popular shooters ever seen or played, Activision wanted to put an end to the rumours and has categorically confirmed they will never put a cost on the shooter’s online service.
Activision Publishing CEO Eric Hirshberg said:
“Are we going to be charging for multiplayer? The answer is no,” said Hirshberg. “The experience you have out of the box, connecting with the online community to play Call of Duty is absolutely integral to the experience and we’ll never charge for that. It’s not going to be something we’ll attempt to monetise; it’s part of the package.”
Great news for the millions of gamers that play the range of CoD games online.
The Importance of Free Multiplayer
The decision to keep multiplayer free is a significant one for Activision, as it aligns with the expectations and desires of the gaming community. Multiplayer modes are a core component of the Call of Duty experience, offering players the chance to engage in competitive and cooperative gameplay with friends and strangers alike. Charging for this service could have alienated a large portion of their player base, potentially driving them to other free-to-play alternatives.
Moreover, the free multiplayer model helps to maintain a large and active player base, which is crucial for the success of any online game. A vibrant community ensures that players can always find matches quickly and enjoy a diverse range of opponents, enhancing the overall gaming experience. By keeping multiplayer free, Activision ensures that the Call of Duty community remains strong and engaged.
Monetization Strategies in Gaming
While Activision has ruled out charging for multiplayer, the company still employs various monetization strategies to generate revenue from their games. These include the sale of downloadable content (DLC), season passes, and in-game purchases such as cosmetic items and battle passes. These methods allow players to enhance their gaming experience without being forced to pay for essential features like multiplayer access.
For example, Call of Duty games often feature additional map packs, new game modes, and exclusive items that can be purchased separately. These optional purchases provide players with more content and customization options, while also supporting the ongoing development and maintenance of the game. This approach strikes a balance between generating revenue and maintaining a fair and enjoyable experience for all players.
In recent years, the gaming industry has seen a shift towards free-to-play models, where the base game is free, but players can purchase in-game items and cosmetics. This model has been successful for games like Fortnite and Apex Legends, and it appears that Activision is taking note of these trends while still preserving the core elements of their traditional pricing structure.
In conclusion, Activision’s commitment to keeping Call of Duty’s multiplayer free is a positive move for the gaming community. It ensures that players can continue to enjoy the full experience without additional costs, while also allowing the company to explore other monetization avenues. This decision not only strengthens the bond between Activision and its player base but also sets a standard for other game developers to follow.
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