Microsoft just increased all Xbox prices: Grab one before the hikes go into effect<span class=caption-credit> (Microsoft)</span>
Xbox Series X and S Price Increase 2025: Microsoft Raises Console, Game, and Accessory Prices
Table of Contents
New Xbox Console Pricing
Microsoft has announced significant price increases across its Xbox gaming hardware lineup, marking a dramatic shift in its pricing strategy. Effective immediately, consumers will face substantially higher prices for both the Xbox Series X and Series S consoles.
| Console Model | Previous Price | New Price | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox Series S (Standard) | $300 | $380 | +$80 |
| Xbox Series S (1TB) | $350 | $430 | +$80 |
| Xbox Series X | $450 | $550 | +$100 |
| Series X (with disc drive) | $500 | $600 | +$100 |
| 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition | N/A | $730 | N/A |
Game Price Updates
Starting from the holiday season 2025, Microsoft will increase the price of select first-party games to $80. However, these games will continue to support the Xbox Play Anywhere feature, allowing purchasers to play on both Xbox and PC without additional cost.
Accessory Price Changes
The price adjustments extend to Xbox accessories, with the core controller now priced at $65, representing an increase from its previous price point. This change affects the entire peripherals lineup, impacting both casual and hardcore gamers.
Global Impact
The price increases are not limited to the United States market. Microsoft has confirmed similar price adjustments in multiple regions:
- Europe: New pricing structure implemented across the Eurozone
- United Kingdom: Adjusted prices reflecting global market conditions
- Australia: Updated pricing for consoles and accessories
- Other international markets: Region-specific price adjustments
Industry Analysis
Historical Context
This price increase marks a significant departure from traditional console pricing strategies. Historically, console prices have typically decreased mid-generation:
- 2002: PlayStation 2 price cut from $299 to $199
- 2009: PlayStation 3 ‘Slim’ launched at reduced $299 price point
- 2025: Xbox Series X/S price increase nearly five years post-launch
Microsoft’s Statement
“We understand that these changes are challenging, and they were made with careful consideration given market conditions and the rising cost of development. Looking ahead, we continue to focus on offering more ways to play more games across any screen and ensuring value for Xbox players.”
This unprecedented mid-generation price increase could potentially impact Xbox’s market position, especially considering the historical success of price reduction strategies in the gaming industry. The move reflects broader economic pressures and rising development costs in the gaming industry, though it may challenge Xbox’s competitive stance in the console market.
Published on May 2, 2025 | Last Updated: 14:30 IST
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