The current console generation has brought with it an increase in the prices of console releases for a number of AAA publishers. An increasing number of games has joined that ever-expanding list over the last couple of years, and it’s now been confirmed that Microsoft is following suit.
In a statement to IGN, Microsoft has announced that from 2023 onward, all of its first party releases for the Xbox Series X/S will retail for price of $70, as opposed to the $60 that had been the industry-wide standard for most new releases until recently. This follows Xbox boss Phil Spencer’s statements earlier in the year regarding potential price hikes for Xbox hardware, games, and subscriptions.
2023 releases like Forza Motorsport, Starfield, and Redfall will all launch with that price- though of course, all first party Microsoft releases will continue to be available day and date via Game Pass as well.
“This price reflects the content, scale, and technical complexity of these titles,” Microsoft says. “As with all games developed by our teams at Xbox, they will also be available with Game Pass the same day they launch.”
Microsoft joins the likes of Sony, EA, Activision, Take-Two Interactive, and Square Enix in pricing new releases at $70. Earlier this year, Ubisoft also confirmed it’s increasing its prices, with Skull and Bones set to launch with a price of $70 (but only on consoles).