There’s an ongoing discussion regarding the impact of Microsoft’s Game Pass on video game sales, with differing opinions on whether it helps or hinders the industry. Id Software co-founder John Romero, known for his work on Doom, has spoken out in favor of Game Pass, describing it as "Netflix for games." In a recent interview, Romero expressed his enthusiasm for the service, stating that it provides players with easy access to a wide range of games.
Romero emphasized that Game Pass effectively lowers the barrier for gamers, allowing them to try out various titles without the upfront commitment of purchase. He remarked, "It’s great because it’s try before you buy… the barrier for people to play games is just access to those games." He further noted that contrary to concerns, Game Pass does not hurt developers; on the contrary, it allows players to experience games more freely, which can ultimately benefit the industry’s visibility and sales.
Romero’s comments anchor back to the success of titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, which remained the top-selling game in America for 2024 despite being available on Game Pass. In contrast, another game, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, debuted lower on the sales charts, which he suggested could be attributed to various factors, including its delayed release on PlayStation 5.
Looking ahead, Romero touched upon Doom: The Dark Ages, which is slated to be a day-one release on Game Pass when it launches on May 15. He highlighted that this title will also simultaneously debut on PlayStation 5, signaling a shift towards more cross-platform releases.
For more insights on upcoming releases, you can check out the following links:
