Microsoft confirms second price increase for Xbox this year
Buying an Xbox will be more expensive starting in October after the new price increase announced by Microsoft
Microsoft is back in the news by announcing new price increases for its Xbox consoles in the United States, in a move that is already generating debate among gamers and market analysts. These increases, which will impact both the Xbox Series X and Series S, add to a similar adjustment implemented by the company just a few months ago, consolidating an upward trend that worries many consumers.
How much will Xbox prices go up?
Starting October 3, the Xbox Series X will cost $649.99, an increase of $50 from its previous price of $599.99. Meanwhile, the Xbox Series S will increase by $20, leaving it at $399.99 for the standard model, while the 1TB version will go up to $449.99. It's important to note that these changes will only affect the US market and there will be no price changes in other regions, as confirmed by Microsoft.
Microsoft had already increased prices this year
This adjustment comes in a context where Microsoft had already raised prices globally in May, applying increases to consoles, controllers, and some accessories such as headsets. On that occasion, the company justified the measure by citing "changes in the macroeconomic environment" and inflationary pressure. In fact, during that cycle, the prices of various Xbox Series S and Series X models, as well as controllers and headsets, increased globally, affecting both the United States and Europe and other key regions.
In fact, during May, Microsoft had even presented a plan to also raise the price of certain exclusive video games to $80 for the holiday season. However, that decision was later reversed after pushback from the gaming community and the trade press.
Why another price increase and what does it mean for gamers?
Microsoft says the key reason for this new adjustment is economic pressure and the need to maintain profitability in the face of rising global costs. This time, accessories like controllers and headsets won't see a price increase,At least in the United States.
This policy of constant price increases could have several consequences. Consumers are forced to reevaluate their options, especially when competitors, such as Sony with PlayStation or Nintendo, observe the situation to establish their own pricing strategies. Furthermore, the continued increase could encourage the purchase of second-hand consoles or alternative digital entertainment options.
For many Xbox fans, the announcement is disappointing, as they find it difficult to access the new generation of consoles just when exclusive releases and technological improvements make the platform more attractive. Other gamers argue that, despite the global economic difficulties, this rate of increases erodes the brand image and could limit Xbox's loyal user base compared to previous generations where updates were less frequent and less expensive.
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