Microsoft Increases Prices for Xbox Consoles and Games
Microsoft has announced a price hike for various Xbox consoles, games, and accessories worldwide, including Canada. This change comes as the company cites “market conditions” and rising development costs as reasons behind the adjustments.
Upcoming Price Changes
According to an update on their website, Microsoft plans to raise the prices of some first-party games to US$79.99 (around C$110) by this holiday season. However, the subscription cost for Xbox Game Pass will stay at C$22.99 per month for its Ultimate tier.
New Pricing Details in Canada
Here's a breakdown of the new prices for Xbox consoles and accessories in Canada:
Consoles
- Xbox Series S (512GB) – C$449.99 (up from C$379.99)
- Xbox Series S (1TB) – C$529.99 (up from C$449.99)
- Xbox Series X (1TB) – C$729.99 (up from C$649.99)
- Xbox Series X Digital (1TB) – C$679.99 (up from C$599.99)
- Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition – C$879.99 (up from C$799.99)
Accessories
- Xbox Wireless Controller – C$84.99 (previously priced at C$74.99)
- Xbox Wireless Controller Special Edition – C$99.99 (previously priced at C$89.99)
- Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core -C $184 . 9 9( up fromC $159 . 9 9 )
– Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2-C $249 . 9 9( upfromC $229 . 9 )
Additionally, Microsoft confirmed that prices for its official Stereo and Wireless headsets will also rise in both Canada and the U.S.
Uncertainty Surrounding Game Prices
While Microsoft has indicated that some first-party games will see a price increase to US $79 . 9 , they have not specified which titles are affected by this change yet.
There is also no information on whether Xbox Game Pass will experience a price increase alongside these game costs.
Industry Trends Reflect Price Adjustments
This move by Microsoft aligns with recent actions taken by other gaming companies like Nintendo and Sony.
Nintendo recently set its Switch 2 console price at aroundC $629 , with new game titles like Mario Kart World costing aboutC $110 .
Sony has raised PS5 prices in regions such as Europe, Australia, and New Zealand while PlayStation Plus subscriptions saw global increases just weeks ago.
Future Implications
The trend of rising prices raises questions about whether other gaming companies might follow suit soon due to ongoing global economic challenges.
