The video game market is not part of a bubble, and it feels the impact and implications of the geopolitical events and developments that occur. So it makes sense that Brexit, Britain’s exit from the European Union, and one of the most dramatic events on the global stage in a very long time, would have had some tangible impact on our hobby too.
The first casualty is VR- specifically, the best VR on the market. The price of the HTC Vive has risen in the UK by £70. HTC have cited the currency fluctuations that followed as a result of Brexit as the reason for the raise.
“HTC continuously monitors and adjusts pricing to ensure we are providing our customers with the best value possible,” the company said, explaining the raise. ”Due to recent currency valuation changes and the current value of the GBP we are adjusting the price of the HTC Vive in the UK to £759 + P&P. The adjustment will come into effect on Monday 1st August.”
It’s a shame, and the raise is steep, but in the end, I think we still stand by the assessment that the HTC Vive remains the VR platform of choice that all enthusiasts serious about engaging with the format should opt for. It’s just sad that it’ll be more expensive to do so now.