The next-generation consoles are almost here. Both Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 will be available next month. However, the new generation will also bring some not-so-popular changes, and that includes a new price tag for games. Several major game publishing companies have already confirmed that their next-gen games will cost $70 for the Standard Edition.
This change to the price was coming, and everyone knew it. $60 has been the standard for gaming for more than a decade. According to Yoshio Osaki, the CEO of IDG Consulting, a $10 increase in a game’s price is actually not that large if compared to the inflation. Maybe, but an $80 price tag for the standard edition of a game would have been a little too high.
Sony has already confirmed that its next-gen games will cost $70. Demon’s Souls Remake is a launch title and will cost you $70 for the Standard Edition. However, what does Microsoft think about the price increase? Previously, Xbox Boss Phil Spencer remained silent on the issue, however, now we have some idea. Xbox Marketing Boss Aaron Greenberg recently said on the Real Deal Podcast that Microsoft plans to take a more ‘fan-centric’ approach.
While not actually confirming it, Greenberg is hinting that their games will stay at $60 for standard editions. However, he also said that the price tag isn’t that much of a big deal. All of Microsoft's first-party titles are going to be available on Xbox Game Pass on Day One anyway.
“It’s a different approach and they obviously have a right to do whatever they want with their products and pricing, but for us we’ve really taken a fan-centric approach [with pricing]," Greenberg said on the Podcast. “I’d say first with Smart Delivery, but most importantly you get all our games at launch in Game Pass, so does the price of the game even matter if it’s included in your Game Pass subscription?”
The only Xbox Series X/S first-party launch title is Gears Tactics, and that game will cost $60. However, has been available for PC since April. It will be interesting to see how much Halo Infinite and Senua's Saga: Hellblade cost for next-gen. That will be the confirmation that Xbox fans need.
