Microsoft Announces Price Increase for Xbox Series X and Xbox Game Pass Subscriptions
Microsoft has revealed its plans to raise the price of the Xbox Series X console and Xbox Game Pass subscriptions. The price adjustments will come into effect at different times in various countries.
Xbox Series X Console Price Increase
Starting from August, the price of the Xbox Series X console will be raised in most countries, excluding the US, Japan, Chile, Brazil, and Colombia. This decision is based on market competitiveness, according to Kari Perez, Microsoft’s head of gaming communications.
As reported by The Verge, the new prices for Xbox Series X will be as follows:
- United Kingdom: £479.99
- Most European markets: €549.99
- Canada: $649.99
- Australia: $799.99
It’s important to note that the pricing for Xbox Series S will remain unchanged in all markets.
Xbox Game Pass Subscription Price Increase
From July 6, Xbox Game Pass subscriptions will see a price increase in most markets, excluding Norway, Chile, Denmark, Switzerland, and Saudi Arabia.
The monthly price for an Xbox Game Pass subscription on the console will be adjusted as follows:
- Current: $9.99 / £7.99 / €9.99
- Updated: $10.99 / £8.99 / €10.99
Similarly, the price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will also increase:
- Current: $14.99 / £10.99 / €12.99
- Updated: $16.99 / £12.99 / €14.99
It’s worth noting that the pricing for PC Game Pass will remain unaffected.
Price Adjustments and Comparison with PS5
Last year, Sony implemented a similar price increase for the PS5 in various countries. Microsoft’s new Xbox Series X pricing will align with the PS5’s prices in the UK, Europe, Canada, and Australia.
Furthermore, Microsoft had already increased the price of its first-party games, raising them from $60 to $70, starting with May’s release of Redfall.
