For example, the recently launched God of War Ragnarök by Sony Interactive Entertainment, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 by Activision, Marvel’s Midnight Suns by 2K Games, and Need for Speed Unbound by Electronics Art were all priced at $70. However, Microsoft has emphasized that the regional pricing may still differ, and any clear statement about regional pricing after the updated prices was not provided. Although it was confirmed that the price hike affects upcoming highly anticipated AAA titles including Redfall, Starfield, Forza Motorsport and Avowed. All the games mentioned are slated for a tentative 2023 release window indicating that this new policy will most likely be implemented effectively from the following year. Microsoft spokespersons have given their statements regarding this recent development to popular media channels, IGN and Windows Central. It should not come as a surprise, especially after the recent price hike in the gaming industry, whether it was PlayStation console prices that were raised by Sony or game prices that got affected overall. Furthermore, last month, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer stated that a price hike is inevitable in the future and all the Xbox services, whether consoles, subscription services or games, will be affected by it. “This price reflects the content, scale, and technical complexity of these titles. As with all games developed by our teams at Xbox, they will also be available with Game Pass the same day they launch.” -via Windows Central “This price reflects the content, scale, and technical complexity of these titles, as with all games developed by our teams at Xbox, they will also be available with Game Pass the same day they launch.” -via IGN It makes sense, after all the budget of games has increased over the years, with studios raising the bar high with each game and making the next one more immersive and visually appealing than before considering the fans’ expectations. And these technological upgrades and improvements cost a lot, and for years, the base price for games has remained the same. -Phil Spencer According to the gaming studios, price hikes like this will help them improve the content rather than compromise on the quality to cut costs that ultimately will affect the gamer’s experience. So, what are your thoughts about this? Are you happy with Microsoft’s decision? Let us know in the comment section below.
