Xbox console prices are set to rise globally, with the entry-level Series S console increasing by 27% in the United States and up to 17% in Europe.
Xbox Price Hike: Microsoft Cites Market Conditions Amid Tariff Uncertainty
Xbox console prices are set to rise globally, with the entry-level Series S console increasing by 27% in the United States and up to 17% in Europe. The premium Series X Galaxy Black model will also see a price hike.
The original Xbox was launched in 2001 with a price tag of around $299.
Over the years, subsequent models and revisions have seen significant price drops.
The Xbox One, released in 2013, started at $499 but later dropped to $349.
The Xbox Series X, released in 2020, starts at $499, while its digital-only counterpart, the 'digital-only' Xbox Series S, is priced at $299.
Prices may vary depending on location and retailer.
Impact on Gaming Industry
The price increases for Xbox consoles come as the gaming industry faces uncertainty due to Donald Trump‘s tariffs on Washington’s trading partners. Xbox consoles are primarily manufactured in China, which is facing significant US tariffs. This has led to a ripple effect across the electronics manufacturing sector, causing Sony and Nintendo to also raise prices for their respective consoles.
Price Increases Announced by Microsoft
- In the United States, the entry-level Xbox Series S will jump from $299.99 to $379.99, a 27% increase.
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The premium Series X Galaxy Black model will now retail for $729.99, up from $599.99 previously – a 22% hike.
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Certain new games from Microsoft-owned studios will be priced at $79.99, up 14% from the current $69.99.
Microsoft offers various pricing models for its games, including upfront purchase, subscription-based services like Xbox Game Pass, and free-to-play titles.
On average, new releases cost between $50 to $60 USD.
Digital-only titles can be cheaper, ranging from $10 to $30 USD.
Microsoft also offers discounts during sales events and promotions, such as Black Friday or holiday season deals.
Additionally, some games are available through Xbox Game Pass, which provides access to a library of games for a flat monthly fee.
Regional Price Adjustments
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In Europe, the Series S will rise from €299.99 to €349.99, a 17% increase.
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In Australia, the Series S will start at $549 and Series X at $849.
The Xbox Series S is a next-generation gaming console developed by Microsoft.
The base model of the console, which does not include a disc drive, was launched at a price point of $299 USD.
This makes it an affordable option for gamers who want to experience the latest 'Xbox' features without breaking the bank.
In comparison, the standard Xbox Series X model starts at $499 USD.
The lower price point of the Series S is due in part to its digital-only design, which eliminates the need for a disc drive and associated hardware costs.
Microsoft cited ‘market conditions’ and the rising cost of development as reasons for the price increases. The company acknowledged that these changes may be challenging for consumers but emphasized its commitment to careful consideration in making the decisions.
- theguardian.com | Microsoft raises Xbox prices globally amid tariff uncertainty
