Call of Duty showcase unveils new phase for leading franchise

COD XP: The first day isn’t even over yet, but there’s already plenty to take away from Activision’s Call of Duty XP event.

The first expo dedicated to the world’s biggest FPS franchise invited fans to share in some of the announcements that will shape the future of Call of Duty.

In addition to the multiplayer reveal for Modern Warfare 3, Activision finally lifted the lid on Call of Duty Elite’s paid features. The social networking service will cost $49.99 per year and grant subscribers early and regular access to all MW3 DLC, competitions and the new episodic Elite TV offering, which features COD-themed shows produced by Hollywood talent such as Ridley Scott.

As previously announced, it will be accessible via an in-game interface and a console app, but will also feature Facebook integration and special app versions for smartphones.

The service is geared towards rewarding the most passionate fans for the long term as Call of Duty further cements support for its future releases.

In the short term, Activision is reaching out to firms with the new Modern Warfare 3-branded Xbox 360 bundle, featuring a stylised console, controllers and wireless headset.

Call of Duty XP is being held in Los Angeles today and tomorrow. You can check out our liveblog of the event by clicking here.