Xbox: Console and Game Pass become more expensive
23.6.2023
Translation: machine translated
Xbox owners will have to dig deeper into their pockets. Both the console and the Game Pass models will become more expensive.
If you're thinking about buying an Xbox, you should make a decision quickly. Microsoft recently announced that it will be increasing the price of the Series X. From the first of August, the price will rise to around 550 euros in most EU member states. You currently pay around 500 euros when you buy one. Switzerland will also be affected: In late summer, from the first of August, the price will be raised to 539 francs. Previously, the price was 499 francs. The price of the Series S will remain the same.
But not only the console is affected. More money will also be due for the Xbox Game Pass. From 6 July, you will pay 17 instead of 15 francs per month for the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. The price tag of the "normal" Game Pass remains unchanged. The situation is different in EU member states. There, the price will increase by one euro per month, or even two euros for Ultimate.
Subscription holders enjoy benefits
Players with a monthly plan enjoy a reprieve. They still pay the old price until 13 August, in Germany until 13 September. For annual plans, the price remains the same until the plan expires
Source: Screenshot / Florian Bodoky
The Xbox spokesperson Kari Perez justifies the price increase by saying that Microsoft is "adjusting prices to reflect competitive conditions in individual markets". In addition, Microsoft has not changed the fees since the launch in 2017. However, the increase is not limited to Europe. Australia is also affected. Only the USA, Japan, Chile, Brazil and Colombia will escape the new pricing for the time being.
Microsoft is thus following the general trend in the industry. Streaming subscription plans have been continuously raised. Its direct Xbox competitors are no exception. Sony has increased its prices in 2022. The company has also introduced the new PS Plus 'Essential', 'Extra' and 'Premium' plans. Only Nintendo is currently sticking to its Switch online prices from 2018.
Cover image: Screenshot/Florian Bodoky
I've been tinkering with digital networks ever since I found out how to activate both telephone channels on the ISDN card for greater bandwidth. As for the analogue variety, I've been doing that since I learned to talk. Though Winterthur is my adoptive home city, my heart still bleeds red and blue.
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