Microsoft has quietly increased the prices of its Xbox Series X and S consoles in the UK, with hikes reaching up to £170. This move, announced late on a Saturday, has raised eyebrows as it coincides with already low sales figures for the consoles. The price of the Xbox Series X has jumped from £499.99 to £669.99, while the Series S models have also seen significant increases.
The rationale behind this price adjustment is attributed to the ongoing component costs crisis, which has affected the entire gaming industry. However, the timing and manner of the announcement suggest a deliberate attempt to downplay the news, as many consumers may not have been aware of the changes until they checked the website.
This price surge not only makes Xbox consoles less appealing but also raises questions about the future of console gaming. With prices now considerably higher than their launch costs, the affordability of next-generation consoles like the PlayStation 6 and future Xbox models is in jeopardy, potentially limiting their market reach.
As consumers face these steep price increases, the gaming landscape may shift dramatically. If Microsoft continues to sell consoles at a loss, further price hikes could be on the horizon, leaving gamers to wonder if they can still afford to participate in console gaming.
Source: Metro
