Phil Spencer says that an Xbox Series X|S and Xbox Game Pass price hike is likely “at some point” in the future. Exactly when is still a question.
Sony made news earlier this year when it increased the PlayStation 5 console price. That PS5 price hike was announced in August and was effective immediately in most of the world except for the United States.
At the time, Microsoft was quick to say that Xbox Series X and S consoles would not see a price increase. It did not take long for the company to walk back that claim. In a Wall Street Journal Live event, Xbox boss Phil Spencer says that both console and subscription prices may increase “at some point.”
As reported on MP1st:
I do think at some point we’ll have to raise the prices on certain things, but going into this holiday we thought it was important to maintain the prices
We’ve held price on our console. We’ve held price on games… and our subscription.
I don’t think we’ll be able to do that forever. I do think at some point we’ll have to raise some prices on certain things…
Et tu, Xbox?
The Xbox Series X currently retails for $499, although you can get a certified refurbished Xbox Series X for $469.99. Meanwhile, the Xbox Series S is $299.99. A monthly Xbox Game Pass subscription costs $9.99 for PC and console while Xbox Game Pass Ultimate costs $14.99 per month.
As Netflix and other services continue to raise their prices, it seems inevitable that Xbox Game Pass will follow suit “at some point,” as Spencer says. Apparently, it’s not a matter of if but when. If at any point we hear more about a price hike, we will obviously report it. Stay tuned to Game Freaks 365 and subscribe to our daily newsletter for all of your gaming news.
My Take
Inflation is just a reality of life. So don’t be surprised if Xbox goes the route of Sony. Hopefully, a price hike is not anytime soon as the service remains one of the best deals in gaming. At the very least, an Xbox Series X|S and Xbox Game Pass price hike do not appear in the cards for this holiday season. So that’s good news!
