CI Games Confirms Microsoft Subscription Deal
Microsoft has secured deals to bring Lords of the Fallen and Sniper Ghost Warrior Contracts 2 to its popular subscription service, Game Pass. Publisher CI Games confirmed the agreements in a financial note released on May 3, although Microsoft has yet to officially announce the inclusion of these titles in Game Pass. While specific terms of the deal were not disclosed, it is anticipated that both games will be available on Xbox and PC Game Pass.
Lords of the Fallen, developed by Hexworks, debuted in October of the previous year to favorable reviews despite encountering performance issues. The action RPG, lauded for its dual-realities premise, garnered praise from critics and players alike. Meanwhile, Sniper Ghost Warrior Contracts 2, a tactical shooter stealth game released in June 2021, received mixed reviews for its competent gameplay but lack of innovation.
While Microsoft has yet to unveil the full lineup of games arriving on Game Pass in May 2024, it has confirmed the addition of titles such as Little Kitty, Big City and Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons. Additionally, the highly anticipated Xbox first-party title, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, is set to debut on May 21.
The recent announcement of new additions to Game Pass comes at a pivotal time for Microsoft’s gaming division, coinciding with a period of significant restructuring and realignment within the company. One notable aspect of this restructuring has been the closure of several Bethesda studios, including Arkane Austin and Tango Gameworks, as part of Microsoft’s broader efforts to streamline its operations and focus on key priorities.
Despite these changes, Microsoft remains committed to strengthening its gaming ecosystem and expanding its reach in the industry. The company’s decision to invest heavily in Game Pass underscores its strategic focus on subscription-based gaming services as a key driver of growth and engagement. By offering a diverse lineup of games through Game Pass, Microsoft aims to attract and retain a broad audience of gamers while delivering value and convenience to subscribers.