A recent marketing email from Microsoft caused a stir among gamers, suggesting that the iconic MMORPG World of Warcraft would be joining the Xbox Game Pass roster. However, Xbox quickly clarified this as a mistake, dashing the hopes of fans eager to experience Azeroth through the subscription service.

This misunderstanding highlights the enduring popularity of World of Warcraft, even after nearly two decades. Launched in 2004, the game continues to boast a substantial subscriber base, drawn to its rich lore, engaging gameplay, and regular expansions.

While the inclusion of World of Warcraft in Game Pass would have undoubtedly been a major draw, the service still offers a compelling lineup of titles.

Xbox's official statement acknowledged the error in the email and promised a correction to all recipients.  While some fans expressed disappointment, many understand that incorporating a game with World of Warcraft's ongoing subscription model into Game Pass presents unique challenges.

Following Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard, several titles from the publisher have been integrated into Game Pass, including StarCraft: Remastered, StarCraft 2: Campaign Collection, Diablo 4, and Overwatch 2.  However, many Activision Blizzard games remain unavailable on the service, and for now, World of Warcraft is among them.

Looking ahead, Xbox Game Pass subscribers have much to anticipate in early 2025. January alone brings three day-one releases: Eternal Strands, Sniper Elite: Resistance, and Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector.  The coming months promise even more additions, with titles like Avowed, South of Midnight, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 on the horizon.

Although World of Warcraft's arrival on Game Pass proved to be a false alarm, leaks suggest a trio of exciting games will join the service in February 2025.  Insider Gaming reports that Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time, Heroes of the Storm, and Madden NFL 25 are likely candidates, with the latter arriving via EA Play.