Call Of Duty: Black Ops Cold War's Next-Gen Upgrade Isn't Free For Standard Edition

Before Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War's official reveal, various editions of the game leaked online. There are three available, with two that include a next-gen upgrade. Buying the standard edition on the current-console gen won't get you free access to the PS5 or Xbox Series X versions of the game. This is unlike certain other major game publishers, including Ubisoft and Microsoft, that are making the next-gen upgrade free. On Xbox Series X, you'll specifically need the digital version to be eligible for the upgrade.

In addition to the standard edition, there are also the Cross-Gen Bundle and Ultimate editions. As explained in an extensive FAQ on Activision's website, both of these versions get you access on current- and next-gen consoles, but you're locked to a single console family. That means if you buy one of these editions on PS4, you'll only get access on PS5, while Xbox One buyers will only be able to get the Xbox Series X version.

All three editions include early access to the Cold War open beta when you pre-order the game digitally--physical versions don't get this early access. PS4 players will get even earlier access to the beta.

The standard edition will be available for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. As the name suggests, the Cross-Gen Bundle features the base game for current- and next-gen (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X) systems. Activision is following a path similar to Control publisher 505 Games, which suggested users buy the Ultimate edition if they want the PS5/XSX upgrade. The Ultimate edition includes the Cross-Gen Bundle and bonus Black Ops Cold War content.

Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War's official reveal happened in Warzone on August 26. The game itself releases on November 13 and more information on multiplayer is coming on September 9.