Microsoft is increasing the prices of the Xbox Series S and Series X

Microsoft is implementing significant price increases for the Xbox Series S and Series X consoles. Starting May 1, 2025, the Xbox Series S will now cost $380, up from $300, and the Series X will be priced at $550, a $100 increase. Additionally, the 1TB Series S is now $430, a $80 increase. There is also a $50 increase for the Xbox Series X with a disc drive to $600. The 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition now costs an elevated $730.

In terms of games and accessories, Microsoft is increasing the prices of its first-party game titles and peripherals. Some new first-party games released for the holiday season will have a price tag of $80. However, if these games are purchased through the Xbox Store, they will support Xbox’s Play Anywhere feature, allowing players to enjoy them on a PC at no additional cost. Accessories, such as the core controller, will now cost $65.

Microsoft attributes these price increases to market conditions and the rising costs of game development. A representative for Microsoft stated, "We understand that these changes are challenging, and they were made with careful consideration." They emphasized continuing to focus on providing gaming value across consoles, ensuring users can play games on multiple screens.

This strategy diverges from the historical trend where console prices typically decrease mid-generation. Notably, in 2002, Sony lowered the PlayStation 2 price from $299 to $199, significantly increasing its market success. A similar strategy helped revive PlayStation 3’s popularity in 2009 with a price reduction and redesign.

The price increase comes almost five years after the consoles’ release, which may affect the momentum of the Xbox Series X/S in the gaming market. Industry analysts and gamers have expressed concerns about the affordability and value proposition of Xbox's hardware and software changes moving forward.

Sources: Windows Central, Polygon, Engadget