Xbox first-party games are getting a price increase in 2023, Microsoft has confirmed. Prices will jump from $59.99 to $69.99 USD.
At this time, we only have price details for the US. However, it will be safe to assume that prices will increase for Xbox first-party games in the vast majority of regions across the world.

A $10 increase will be implemented
It was always inevitable that prices would increase at some point. Especially after Sony was already charging $69.99 for first-party titles from the launch of the PlayStation 5. What’s more, we’ve also seen price increases for hardware including the PS5 and Meta Quest 2 in recent months.
The price increase was confirmed by a Microsoft spokesperson to IGN (thanks Pure Xbox). “This price reflects the content, scale, and technical complexity of these titles,” said the rep. “As with all games developed by our teams at Xbox, they will also be available with Game Pass the same day they launch.”

Despite the rise of inflation and production, I think most of us would prefer items not to increase in price. Especially with so many struggling due to the cost-of-living crisis. However, any price increase might be considered fair if that product met certain standards of quality.
For example, Sony continues to knock it out of the park with exclusives such as the Demon’s Souls remake, Horizon Forbidden West and more recently, God of War Ragnarok.
However, the same perhaps can not be said when publishers increase the RRP, but then fill the game with microtransactions and an overly excessive grind. Such as certain publishers of sports games or even Sony’s Gran Turismo 7.
Is the Xbox first-party price increase justified?

It’s fair to say that Microsoft hasn’t been knocking it out of the park when it comes to its own first-party exclusives. Don’t get me wrong, Forza Horizon 5 is great and we have Halo Infinite. Yet, even by Microsoft’s own admission, Sony has better exclusives than what’s available on Xbox Series X|S.
Furthermore, with the likes of Starfield and Red Fall arriving in 2023, not to mention games from the many studios Microsoft has gobbled up, the future is looking bright for Xbox Series X|S. So, if Microsoft releases high-quality exclusives on a more consistent basis, I’m sure many wouldn’t complain.
It’s also worth keeping in mind that at this time, Xbox Game Pass hasn’t increased in price. Phil Spencer has recently hinted at a possible price increase for Xbox Game Pass. However, if first-party titles jump by £10/$10, but the Xbox Game Pass subscription cost remains the same for the foreseeable future, that will cushion the blow somewhat.

Other regions might get stung by the price increase
I think some gamers might feel aggrieved with currency conversion. For example, $69.99 USD in the UK converts to approximately £57.49. In that respect, a £59.99 price would be fair. Sadly, however, I wouldn’t bank on that happening in the UK as the RRP will likely be £69.99 as with PS5 first-party titles.
What are your thoughts on Microsoft’s plans to increase the price of its first-party titles? Let us know across our social media channels.
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