Table of Contents

How Much Does It Cost to Play Call of Duty Online?

Quick answer

This page answers How much does it cost to play Call of Duty online? quickly.

Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.

Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.

Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.

The straightforward answer is: Playing Call of Duty online requires a subscription to an online service such as PlayStation Plus for PlayStation consoles or Xbox Game Pass Core (formerly Xbox Live Gold) for Xbox consoles. This cost is in addition to the purchase price of the Call of Duty game itself. PC players, however, generally do not require an additional subscription to play online.

Breaking Down the Costs: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding the costs associated with playing Call of Duty (CoD) online can be confusing, especially with the evolving landscape of subscription services and game releases. This guide aims to clarify the different factors involved, ensuring you’re fully informed before jumping into your next online match.

The Base Game: Your Initial Investment

First and foremost, you’ll need to purchase the Call of Duty game itself. These games typically retail for between $60 and $70 for the standard edition upon release. Special editions, often including in-game content, skins, or early access, can cost significantly more. Keep an eye out for sales and discounts, especially after the initial launch window. Digital storefronts like the PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, and Steam (for PC) frequently offer deals. Remember that newer Call of Duty titles often require more powerful gaming hardware, so factor in the cost of upgrading your PC or console if needed.

Console Subscriptions: The Key to Online Play

The most significant recurring cost for console players is the requirement of a subscription service to access online multiplayer functionality. This is where the waters can get a little murky, so let’s break it down by platform:

PlayStation: To play Call of Duty online on PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5, you need a PlayStation Plus subscription. There are different tiers of PlayStation Plus:
- PlayStation Plus Essential: This is the most basic tier and provides access to online multiplayer, monthly downloadable games, and exclusive discounts.
- PlayStation Plus Extra: This tier includes all the benefits of Essential, plus access to a library of downloadable PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 games.
- PlayStation Plus Premium: The highest tier includes all the benefits of Extra, plus access to classic PlayStation, PS2, and PSP games, as well as game trials and cloud streaming in select regions. The cost of PlayStation Plus varies depending on the tier and the length of the subscription (monthly, quarterly, or annual). An annual subscription typically offers the best value.
Xbox: To play Call of Duty online on Xbox One or Xbox Series X/S, you need Xbox Game Pass Core (formerly Xbox Live Gold). It is necessary to use online multiplayer functionality. It provides access to online multiplayer gaming, a library of over 25 games, and exclusive deals. Microsoft also offers Xbox Game Pass Ultimate which includes Xbox Game Pass Core. Like PlayStation Plus, Xbox Game Pass Core is available in different subscription lengths, with annual subscriptions offering the most cost-effective option.

PC Gaming: A Subscription-Free Zone (Mostly)

One of the main advantages of playing Call of Duty on PC is that you don’t need to pay for an additional subscription service to play online. Once you’ve purchased the game, you can jump into multiplayer matches without any extra fees. However, this doesn’t mean PC gaming is entirely free of recurring costs. You might consider subscribing to services that offer in-game advantages or cosmetic items, but these are entirely optional.

In-Game Purchases: The Optional Extras

Call of Duty games often feature in-game purchases such as cosmetic bundles, weapon blueprints, and battle passes. These are entirely optional and do not affect your ability to play the core game. However, they can add to the overall cost of the game if you’re someone who enjoys customizing your character or unlocking exclusive content. Battle passes offer a tiered system of rewards that you can unlock by playing the game and completing challenges. They usually offer a good value for money if you play regularly and are interested in the rewards.

Internet Service: The Unsung Hero

A stable and reliable internet connection is crucial for a smooth online gaming experience. While not directly related to the Call of Duty franchise, the cost of your internet service is a significant factor to consider. A faster connection will generally provide a better experience, but it will also come with a higher price tag. Consider your internet needs carefully and choose a plan that offers sufficient bandwidth and low latency for online gaming.

Call of Duty FAQs: Addressing Your Burning Questions

Here are 15 frequently asked questions regarding the cost of playing Call of Duty online, providing further clarity and addressing potential concerns:

Do I need PlayStation Plus to play Call of Duty: Warzone on PlayStation? Yes, you will need an active PlayStation Plus subscription to play Call of Duty: Warzone (a free-to-play title) on PlayStation consoles.
Can I play Call of Duty online without Xbox Game Pass Core on Xbox? No, an Xbox Game Pass Core subscription is required to play any online multiplayer game, including Call of Duty, on Xbox consoles.
Is Call of Duty online free on PC? Yes, Call of Duty is free to play on PC.
Are there any hidden fees associated with playing Call of Duty online? No, there are no hidden fees. The main costs are the price of the game, the console subscription fee (if playing on PlayStation or Xbox), and the cost of your internet service. In-game purchases are optional.
How much does PlayStation Plus cost? The cost of PlayStation Plus varies depending on the tier and subscription length. Check the PlayStation Store for the most up-to-date pricing information.
How much does Xbox Game Pass Core cost? The cost of Xbox Game Pass Core varies depending on the subscription length. Check the Microsoft Store for the latest prices.
What happens if my PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass Core subscription expires? You will lose access to online multiplayer functionality until you renew your subscription.
Can I share my PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass Core subscription with other accounts on my console? Yes, both PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass Core can be shared with other accounts on the same console, depending on the specific settings and terms of service.
Do I need a high-end PC to play Call of Duty online? While a high-end PC will provide the best experience, Call of Duty games are typically optimized to run on a range of hardware configurations. Check the game’s minimum and recommended system requirements to see if your PC meets the necessary specifications.
Are in-game purchases necessary to be competitive in Call of Duty? No, in-game purchases are purely cosmetic and do not provide any competitive advantage.
Do Call of Duty games ever go on sale? Yes, Call of Duty games frequently go on sale, especially during major holidays or promotional events. Keep an eye on digital storefronts and retailers for discounts.
Is it cheaper to buy a physical copy of Call of Duty or download it digitally? The price of physical and digital copies of Call of Duty can vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. It’s best to compare prices before making a purchase.
Does the price of Call of Duty games vary by platform? The price of Call of Duty games is generally the same across different platforms.
What is the cost of a good internet connection for playing Call of Duty online? The cost of a good internet connection can vary depending on your location and the provider. Aim for a plan that offers at least 25 Mbps download speed and low latency.
If I buy a Call of Duty game on one platform, can I play it on another platform? No, Call of Duty games are platform-specific. If you want to play on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, you will need to purchase the game on each platform separately.

By understanding these costs and considering your individual needs and preferences, you can make informed decisions and enjoy the thrilling world of Call of Duty online gaming without breaking the bank.