Microsoft has recently announced that it will be raising the prices for its popular Xbox Series X console and Xbox Game Pass subscriptions. These price hikes will take effect in most countries, excluding the US, Japan, Chile, Brazil, and Colombia. Additionally, the monthly fees for Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will also see an increase for the first time next month. Let’s delve into the details of these changes and how they will impact gamers.
Xbox Series X Console Pricing
Starting from August 1st, Microsoft will adjust the pricing of the Xbox Series X console to align with the price hike implemented by Sony for the PS5 last year. In the UK, the Xbox Series X will be available for £479.99, while across most European markets, it will be priced at €549.99. Canadian gamers can expect a price of CAD $649.99, and in Australia, the console will be priced at AUD $799.99. It’s important to note that the pricing for the Xbox Series S will remain unchanged at $299.99 in all markets.
Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Subscriptions
Alongside the console price adjustments, Microsoft is also increasing the monthly prices for its Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscriptions. Starting from July 6th, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will be available for $16.99 per month (€14.99 / £12.99), while the base Xbox Game Pass for Console subscription will be priced at $10.99 per month (€10.99 / £8.99). It’s worth mentioning that the pricing for PC Game Pass will remain unaffected by these changes.
Impact on Existing and New Subscribers
Existing monthly subscribers of Game Pass will not experience the new pricing until August 13th, or September 13th in Germany. However, new members joining Xbox Game Pass from July 6th onwards will be subjected to the new prices immediately. If you currently have an Xbox Game Pass subscription through a yearly code, the new pricing will only take effect when you renew your subscription.
Local Market Conditions and Acquisitions
Microsoft emphasizes that these adjustments are not related to its proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The company states that the price changes for Game Pass are intended to align with local market conditions. It’s worth noting that the Xbox Game Pass pricing has remained unchanged since its introduction in 2017, demonstrating Microsoft’s commitment to providing value to its subscribers.
Following Industry Trends
Microsoft’s decision to increase prices for Xbox Series X and Xbox Game Pass subscriptions reflects a larger trend in the entertainment industry. Over the past few years, several popular subscription services have implemented price hikes. Streaming giant Netflix raised its prices, as did Disney Plus and Hulu. Even music streaming services like Apple Music and Spotify have undergone price increases in many markets.
The Landscape of Gaming Subscriptions
Nintendo’s Switch Online subscription service, launched in 2018, has not yet seen any price adjustments. On the other hand, Sony recently updated its PlayStation Plus subscriptions with new tiers such as PlayStation Plus Essential, Plus Extra, and Plus Premium. These changes cater to the diverse needs of PlayStation owners.
