Since embracing a live-service model, Call of Duty has revolutionized how players unlock exclusive cosmetic rewards, offering systems that cater to both free and premium audiences. One of the latest additions to Black Ops 6 and Warzone is the Event Pass, designed to coincide with themed, limited-time events. Here’s an in-depth look at how this system works and whether it’s worth your investment.
What is the Event Pass in BO6 & Warzone?
The Event Pass is a progression system introduced in Black Ops 6 and Warzone, tied exclusively to in-game events. It offers two tiers of rewards:
- Free Tier: Unlock a limited selection of themed cosmetics.
- Premium Tier: Unlock all 10 event-themed rewards for 1,100 CoD Points (equivalent to $10 / £8.39).
Players earn rewards by gaining XP, similar to the Battle Pass system. For example, during the recent Squid Game collaboration, the Event Pass featured cosmetics inspired by the hit Netflix series, including themed Operator skins and weapon blueprints. Completing all 10 tiers unlocks a Mastery Reward, such as an exclusive weapon or Operator, offering additional incentive to fully engage with the event.
Notably, the Event Pass simplifies progression compared to earlier systems that relied on completing specific challenges or community objectives, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Is the Premium Event Pass Worth It?
Pros:
- Exclusive Rewards: Unlock event-specific cosmetics not available elsewhere.
- Streamlined Progression: Earn rewards through XP rather than completing complex challenges.
- Mastery Incentives: Finish the pass to receive a unique, prestigious item.
Cons:
- High Cost: At 1,100 CoD Points, the Premium Pass adds to an already expensive ecosystem, including Battle Passes and premium bundles.
- Paywall Concerns: Free-to-play players have limited access to the most desirable content.
Considerations:
The Premium Event Pass appeals most to players who:
- Regularly complete the Battle Pass.
- Value collecting exclusive event-themed cosmetics.
- Enjoy maximizing content from collaborations like the Squid Game event.
For others, the additional cost may feel steep, especially when weighed against the price of other in-game content or even other games entirely.
Community Reactions and Controversy
The introduction of the Event Pass Premium has sparked mixed reactions within the community. While many enjoy the opportunity to collect themed cosmetics, others have criticized the growing monetization strategies in Call of Duty. Premium Operators and some of the most appealing cosmetics remain locked behind paywalls, leaving free-to-play players feeling sidelined.
The issue is exacerbated by the cumulative cost of the Battle Pass (1,100 CoD Points) and premium bundles (2,400–3,000 CoD Points), making the Event Pass Premium feel like an additional financial burden for dedicated players.
Final Verdict
The Event Pass Premium is a worthy investment for collectors and dedicated players who enjoy unlocking all event-related content. However, for casual players or those who already struggle to complete the Battle Pass, saving your CoD Points for other premium content may be the better choice.
Before purchasing, ask yourself:
- Is there a specific reward that makes the $10 / £8.39 price worthwhile?
- Would that money be better spent on other games or content?
As Call of Duty continues to evolve its live-service model, the Event Pass highlights both the opportunities and challenges of balancing player engagement with monetization. Whether it’s worth it ultimately depends on your priorities as a player.
