In a recent announcement, Microsoft revealed its plans to implement price increases for the Xbox Series X console and Xbox Game Pass subscription service in several countries. While the changes are expected to be effective from August 1, it is worth noting that the price adjustments will not be applicable in the United States, Japan, Chile, Brazil, and Colombia.
This move by Microsoft closely resembles the strategy employed by Sony, who raised the prices of the PlayStation 5 last year.
Based from the official statement, the Xbox Series X will now be priced at £479.99 in the UK, €549.99 across most European markets, CAD 649.99 in Canada, and AUD 799.99 in Australia. However, the Xbox Series S will maintain its current price of $299.99 and will not experience any increase.
Kari Perez, head of communications for Xbox, emphasized the rationale behind the price adjustments in a statement to The Verge: “We’ve maintained our console prices for many years and have adjusted them to reflect the competitive conditions in each market.”
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Along with the console price increase, the monthly subscription cost of the Xbox Game Pass for consoles will be implemented slightly earlier, starting July 6. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate [1] will witness a $2 increase from $14.99 monthly to $16.99.
The base Xbox Game Pass subscription will also see an increase of $1, shifting from $9.99 per month to $10.99. Notably, the pricing of the PC Game Pass remains unchanged. Existing subscribers need not worry about an immediate impact as the price increase will only affect their next renewal on or after July 6.
While this price hike may be disappointing, it is not entirely unexpected. Microsoft followed Sony’s price adjustments for the PlayStation 5 in several markets. Furthermore, the author points out that various entertainment subscriptions, including Sony’s PlayStation Plus, have increased prices over the past year. Nintendo Switch Online will not follow the same trend.
Overall, Microsoft’s decision to increase the Xbox Series X and Xbox Game Pass prices reflects its response to evolving market conditions. As the gaming industry continues to grow, it is not uncommon for companies to adjust their pricing structures to remain competitive and sustain their offerings in a rapidly changing landscape.
