Microsoft has announced significant price increases across the Xbox ecosystem, affecting consoles, controllers, headsets, and some games. Effective immediately as of May 1, the new pricing reflects a substantial hike. While game prices are currently unchanged, Microsoft has hinted that new first-party titles might retail at $79.99 starting around the holiday season. This price adjustment is global, with the exception of headset prices, which will only increase in the U.S. and Canada.
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Below are the new expected prices for various Xbox products in the U.S.:
- Xbox Series S 512 - $379.99 (previously $299.99)
- Xbox Series S 1TB - $429.99 (previously $349.99)
- Xbox Series X Digital - $549.99 (previously $449.99)
- Xbox Series X - $599.99 (previously $499.99)
- Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Special Edition - $729.99 (previously $599.99)
- Xbox Wireless Controller (Core) - $64.99
- Xbox Wireless Controller (Color) - $69.99
- Xbox Wireless Controller - Special Edition - $79.99
- Xbox Wireless Controller - Limited Edition - $89.99 (previously $79.99)
- Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Core) - $149.99 (previously $139.99)
- Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Full) - $199.99 (previously $179.99)
- Xbox Stereo Headset - $64.99
- Xbox Wireless Headset - $119.99 (previously $109.99)
For price changes in other regions, please refer to the official Xbox announcement page here.
Microsoft provided IGN with the following statement regarding the price increases:
“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.”
Although it's unclear which first-party titles will see the new $80 price point, potential candidates might include the next mainline Call of Duty, the delayed Fable (2026), the Perfect Dark reboot, inXile’s Clockwork Revolution, Rare's Everwild, The Coalition's Gears of War: E-Day, Hideo Kojima’s OD, or Undead Labs' State of Decay 3. Additionally, Double Fine is working on a new game.
Microsoft has scheduled an Xbox Games Showcase 2025 and an The Outer Worlds 2 Direct for June, where more details will likely be revealed.
This marks the first time the Xbox Series S has seen a price increase since its launch in 2020. Microsoft had previously committed to maintaining existing prices in 2022, following PlayStation's PS5 price hike. However, in 2023, Xbox raised the price of the Xbox Series X in most countries, excluding the U.S., and has adjusted Xbox Game Pass prices multiple times globally.
While the magnitude of these price increases is notable, the move itself aligns with industry trends. PlayStation recently raised prices in the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand for the second time in three years. Across the gaming industry, AAA game prices have risen from $60 to $70 over the last five years, and Nintendo has set a $80 price for upcoming Switch 2 exclusives like Mario Kart World and other Switch 2 Edition games. The Switch 2 itself is set to launch at $450, a price that has sparked debate among fans, though analysts see it as a necessary adjustment given current economic conditions.
Xbox Games Series Tier List
Xbox Games Series Tier List
Nintendo's pricing strategy for the Switch 2 was influenced by fluctuating U.S. tariffs, which forced the company to reconsider its pricing. While the console price remained at $450, accessory prices were affected. Analysts predict further price increases post-launch, and the Entertainment Software Association has warned that the entire industry could be impacted:
“You know what? It's been interesting with media coverage around video games and tariffs because just unfortunate coincidental timing that the Switch [2 reveal] was the same day as President Trump's announcement. There are so many devices we play video games on. There are other consoles, but as I was saying, VR headsets, our smartphones, people who love PC games, if we think it's just the Switch, then we aren't taking it seriously. This is going to have an impact.
“And even American-based companies, they're getting products that need to cross into American borders to make those consoles, to make those games. And so there's going to be a real impact regardless of company. This is company-agnostic, this is an entire industry. There's going to be an impact on the entire industry.”
It's evident that the current economic climate is leading to a more expensive gaming experience across all platforms.
