When it comes to the console hardware race, Microsoft is undeniably lagging behind. Despite the Xbox Series X being touted as the most powerful gaming console on the market, its superior specs have not translated into dominant sales figures. The PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch continue to outperform it in terms of units sold. However, rather than introducing changes to make the console more appealing in addition to its current focus on Game Pass, Microsoft’s latest move may make the Xbox even harder to sell.
The gaming giant has unexpectedly announced a significant price increase for the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S consoles across all regions. Labelling it as a “difficult decision,” Microsoft emphasised that the price hike was made after careful consideration.
According to the company, the move considers current market conditions and the rising costs of development. Microsoft reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the Xbox gaming ecosystem remains accessible in various ways and continues to deliver value to its fans.
For gamers in the United States, the new pricing has already come into effect as of May 1. The increase marks a notable shift in Microsoft’s pricing strategy, especially at a time when competition in the console space is as fierce as ever. Here are the new price points in USD:
- Xbox Series S 512 – $379.99 (up from $299.99)
- Xbox Series S 1TB – $429.99 (up from $349.99)
- Xbox Series X Digital – $549.99 (up from $449.99)
- Xbox Series X – $599.99 (up from $499.99)
- Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Special Edition $729.99 (up from $599.99)
- Xbox Wireless Controller (Core) – $64.99
- Xbox Wireless Controller (Colour) – $69.99
- Xbox Wireless Controller – Special Edition – $79.99
- Xbox Wireless Controller – Limited Edition – $89.99 (up from $79.99)
- Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Core) – $149.99 (up from $139.99)
- Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Full) – $199.99 (up from $179.99)
- Xbox Stereo Headset -$64.99
- Xbox Wireless Headset – $119.99 (up from $109.99)
Additionally, Microsoft plans to follow a pricing model seemingly popularised by Nintendo with Mario Kart World for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The company has confirmed it will raise the price of its first-party titles to US$80, beginning with the 2025 holiday season. This means all games published under Xbox Game Studios will see this price bump by the end of the year.
At the moment, Microsoft has not mentioned any potential changes to the pricing of its flagship subscription service, Xbox Game Pass, for either console or PC platforms. This series of pricing decisions may redefine the cost of entry into the Xbox ecosystem and could have long-term implications for its competitiveness in the global gaming market.
