Activision’s upcoming remasters of Call of Duty: Black Ops and Black Ops 2 for PlayStation 5 may force players to repurchase older downloadable content (DLC) separately, according to emerging reports. While the base games are expected to launch in July, the potential separation of DLC packs could significantly increase the total cost for collectors or players seeking the complete experience.

This pricing strategy mirrors a growing trend in the gaming industry, where developers and publishers increasingly bundle content differently across platforms. For Call of Duty fans, it raises questions about whether the PS5 versions will include all previously released DLCs—or if players will need to spend additional money to access them. With the original games spanning nearly a decade, the cumulative cost of DLCs could add hundreds of dollars to the final price.

Activision has not yet confirmed whether the PS5 editions will include all DLCs from the original releases. However, industry analysts and leaks suggest that the company may adopt a more segmented approach, selling DLCs as standalone purchases. This could be particularly problematic for players who already own the original versions, as they may face unnecessary repurchases.

Why Are Older DLCs Being Sold Separately?

Activision’s potential strategy aligns with a broader industry shift toward microtransactions and segmented content delivery. By selling DLCs separately, the company can maximize revenue from both new and returning players. However, this approach has drawn criticism from gamers who argue it undermines the value of remastered titles.

In the past, remasters like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019) and Black Ops Cold War included all previously released DLCs as part of the base game. However, recent trends—such as the separate sale of Call of Duty: Warzone’s Battle Pass content—suggest that Activision may be moving away from this model. For Black Ops and Black Ops 2, this could mean that players who want the full experience will need to spend additional money on packs like Black Ops: Strike Team, Black Ops II: Strike Force, and other expansions.

According to early reports (which have not been officially confirmed by Activision), the PS5 versions may only include the base game content, leaving DLCs as optional add-ons. This would be a departure from the original releases, where DLCs were often bundled or sold at a discount over time.

How Much Could This Cost Players?

The cumulative cost of DLCs for Black Ops and Black Ops 2 could reach $300–$400 if purchased separately. For context:

• Call of Duty: Black Ops (2010) had DLCs like Strike Team ($15), Nuketown Zombies ($10), and Call of the Dead ($10).
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 (2012) included Strike Force ($15), Revolution ($10), and Blackout ($10).
• Additional packs, such as Black Ops II: Call of the Dead and Black Ops II: Zombies Chronicles, could add another $50–$100.

If Activision sells these DLCs as separate $15–$20 purchases, players who want the complete experience could end up paying nearly $100 more than the base game price. This is particularly frustrating for players who already own the original versions, as they would essentially be paying twice for content they’ve already purchased.

What Does This Mean for Existing Players?

Existing owners of the original Black Ops and Black Ops 2 games on PS4 or other platforms may face a difficult decision. If the PS5 versions do not include DLCs, they would have to choose between:

• Purchasing the PS5 versions and then buying all DLCs separately (potentially $300–$400 in additional costs).
• Sticking with their current versions and missing out on PS5’s improved graphics, faster load times, and other enhancements.

This dilemma highlights a growing frustration among gamers, who increasingly feel that remasters and re-releases are designed to extract more money rather than provide value. The situation is further complicated by the fact that some DLCs—particularly those tied to multiplayer or Zombies modes—may not even be playable on the PS5 versions if they rely on deprecated systems.

How Does This Compare to Other Call of Duty Remasters?

Activision’s approach to DLCs in remasters has been inconsistent. Here’s how the upcoming Black Ops and Black Ops 2 PS5 editions compare to past releases:

While past remasters included all DLCs, the shift toward selling content separately appears to be part of Activision’s broader strategy to maximize revenue through microtransactions. This trend is not limited to Call of Duty; games like Destiny 2 and Fortnite have also adopted similar models, where players must pay for expansions or seasonal content to stay current.

What Should Players Do?

If you’re considering purchasing the PS5 versions of Black Ops and Black Ops 2, here’s what you should know:

• Wait for official confirmation: Activision has not yet confirmed whether DLCs will be included or sold separately. Keep an eye on Activision’s official website and PlayStation’s store for updates.
• Check for bundles: Some retailers may offer discounts or bundles that include DLCs. Monitor sites like Amazon, Best Buy, or Game UK for deals.
• Consider the original versions: If you already own the PS4 versions and don’t need PS5 upgrades, you may not need to repurchase the game.
• Engage with the community: Activision often responds to player feedback. If you’re concerned about the DLC situation, consider reaching out via Twitter or the official support page.

What Happens Next?

Activision has not set an official release date for the PS5 versions of Black Ops and Black Ops 2, but leaks suggest a July 2024 launch. The company is expected to provide more details in the coming weeks, including whether DLCs will be included or sold separately. Players should monitor:

• Activision’s official news page for updates.
• PlayStation’s store listings for pre-release information.
• Industry publications like IGN, Polygon, and Eurogamer for breaking news.