Xbox has no intention of following the PS5 price increase. The news comes after Sony hiked up the RRP of its new-gen consoles.
Yesterday, SIE President and CEO, Jim Ryan announced that the price of the PlayStation 5 disc and digital consoles will increase immediately. Well, apart from Japan, its price won’t increase until September 15th.
PS5 prices increased by 20%
Furthermore, some of the regions impacted by this price increase include the UK and Europe, Australia, Canada and more. However, the United States was exempt from the increase.
For example, in the UK, prices jumped by £30 which is roughly a 20% increase in most regions. Sony, a multi-billion-dollar company said that the reason the prices have increased is due to “high global inflation rates, as well as adverse currency trends, impacting consumers and creating pressure on many industries.”
However, at this stage, I’m not sure what good a Sony price increase is. After all, the PS5 stock shortages still plague the industry. Judging by some comments on social media, many Sony fans have decided to end their interest in acquiring the new-gen console on principle against the PS5 price increase.
Xbox responds to PS5 price increase
The gaming community is now concerned that Microsoft will follow suit and increase the prices of the Xbox Series X|S. Thankfully, however, it seems that Microsoft does not intend to increase the prices of its consoles.
In a statement provided to Windows Central, a Microsoft spokesperson confirmed that the company will still maintain the current price of its latest consoles.
“We are constantly evaluating our business to offer our fans great gaming options. Our Xbox Series S suggested retail price remains at $299 (£250, €300) the Xbox Series X is $499 (£450, €500),” said the Microsoft rep.
To be fair to Microsoft, it seems that the Xbox Series X|S is more readily available at most retailers. So unlike Sony where it’s still difficult to get hold of a PS5 from an official seller, it would have been easy for Microsoft to benefit from its healthier stock and increase the prices of its consoles.
Will Nintendo follow Xbox?
Let’s hope that Microsoft sticks to its world and that Nintendo follows its example of not bumping up prices during a time when most ordinary people are struggling more than ever.
What are your thoughts on the current prices of new-gen consoles, and do you believe that Microsoft will stick to its word? Let us know across our social media channels.
While you’re here, be sure to check out our video of the week. 10 of the scariest horror games of all time are shown off. What is your favourite horror game?
While you’re here, be sure to check out our video of the week. 10 of the scariest horror games of all time are shown off. What is your favourite horror game?
Featured Image Credit: Microsoft/Source: Windows Central