Xbox: Series X and Game Pass price changes, what to expect?

After holding out as long as possible, Microsoft will go through the price change box for the Xbox Series X and the Game Pass…

A news not really surprising, but which is not a pleasure to hear, since it comes in direct opposition to the past statements of the American giant, both with regard to its new generation consoles and its subscription service. But then, inflation…

Microsoft releases the fateful inflation map

Released in 2017 and 2020 respectively, Game Pass and Xbox Series X had so far fallen between the drops of inflation-driven price hikes. But that was before, since we are told that Microsoft has recently changed its tune in this field.

Thus, the most powerful version of the new generation Xbox consoles will go from 500 to 550 euros in Europe at the beginning of August (with the exception of Denmark, Norway and Switzerland). It therefore aligns with the price increase made last year by Sony on the PS5. Note that this change will not affect the United States, among other rare countries spared. The price of the Xbox Series S will remain unchanged. The Game Pass will also experience adjustments, this time from July 6.

Legal technicalities

This news may raise some eyebrows, as we learned recently from Microsoft lawyers that the price of Game Pass would not increase if the Activision Blizzard takeover is successful. According to representatives of the American giant, it is technically true: ” We have tried to maintain the prices of our consoles [et du Game Pass] for years and adjust them in response to competitive conditions in each market. »

Thus, the console version of Microsoft’s service will go from 9.99 to 10.99 euros per month. The Game Pass Ultimate will see its price increase from 12.99 to 14.99 euros. The PC component is not affected. These changes will be effective as of July 6 for new subscribers. Those who have already subscribed to the service on a monthly basis will be concerned from August 13. Annual subscriptions will remain unchanged until their next renewal.

In any case, here is some annoying news and which is not likely to earn Microsoft points, especially in the field of the sale of consoles in the face of the overwhelming success of the Nintendo Switch and the PS5. A somewhat tired Phil Spencer had recently split a rather pessimistic vision for the future of Xbox. A self-fulfilling prophecy?

Source : The Verge