Microsoft’s Game Pass Revolution: Industry Insights from Doom Co-Creator
Doom Co-Creator John Romero Loves Xbox Game Pass
A Positive Outlook on the Game Pass Ecosystem
There’s been ongoing debate about whether Microsoft’s Game Pass hurts or helps the sales of titles available on the service. However, id Software co-founder and Doom co-creator John Romero believes that Game Pass is beneficial to the video game industry.
According to Romero, Game Pass is like “Netflix for games” – a convenient way for gamers to access a vast library of titles without worrying about the upfront cost. This try-before-you-buy approach is a major selling point, as it allows gamers to experience games without committing to a purchase. Romero notes that the barrier to entry for gaming is often access to the games themselves, and Game Pass eliminates this hurdle.
The Benefits of Game Pass for Game Developers
Romero also emphasized that Game Pass doesn’t negatively impact game companies that create the titles available on the service. In fact, he believes that Game Pass actually helps developers by allowing players to experience their games more quickly. This increased visibility can lead to more sales, even if players don’t end up keeping the game.
The success of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, which debuted at number one on the US sales charts despite being available on Game Pass, supports Romero’s claim. In contrast, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle only managed to debut at number 14, which may be due in part to its delayed release on PlayStation 5.
A Game Pass Release for Doom: The Dark Ages
Doom: The Dark Ages, a new title in the beloved Doom series, will be a day-one release on Game Pass when it launches on May 15. Unlike Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, which won’t arrive on PlayStation 5 until later this spring, Doom: The Dark Ages will debut simultaneously on Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5. This simultaneous release could help attract a wider audience for the game.
In summary, John Romero’s enthusiasm for Game Pass highlights the benefits of the service for both gamers and game developers. By providing access to a vast library of titles and eliminating the barrier to entry, Game Pass is a powerful tool for growing the gaming industry as a whole.
