Facepalm: As of today, the entry-level Xbox Series S will cost $379.99 for the 512GB model and $429.99 for the 1TB version – an $80 to $130 increase over last year's pricing. Meanwhile, the Xbox Series X Digital has jumped to $549.99, and the flagship Series X now carries a hefty $599.99 price tag. Even premium models like the limited-edition 2TB Galaxy Series X haven't been spared, rising from $599.99 to a steep $729.99.
Microsoft has unleashed a wave of price hikes across its Xbox hardware and software lineup, citing market pressures and rising development costs. Nearly the entire lineup is affected, from the latest Xbox Series X and S consoles to accessories like controllers and headsets.
Most of Microsoft's Xbox accessories have also seen noticeable price hikes. The standard wireless controller now starts at $64.99, while colored versions are priced at $69.99. The premium Elite Series 2 controller is now $149.99 for the core model and $199.99 for the complete package. Headsets aren't immune either: the basic stereo headset is now $64.99, and the highly-rated wireless version has increased from $109.99 to $119.99.
Still, the real kick in the shins may be yet to come for avid gamers. Microsoft's statement adds that it plans to standardize pricing for some of its upcoming first-party game releases at a premium $79.99 price point. The company has attempted to soften the blow by highlighting the "value" of its Xbox Play Anywhere initiative, which allows players to access purchased games on both console and PC.
"We understand that these changes are challenging, and they were made with careful consideration given market conditions and the rising cost of development," it added.
Reading between the lines, supply chain issues and broader economic pressures have likely contributed to the decision. Regardless of the reasons, the hikes make switching to – or staying within – the Xbox ecosystem a more premium proposition.
With the holiday release schedule still months away, it remains to be seen whether Microsoft has any surprise rabbits to pull from its hat to ease the sticker shock. The company's next big reveal is scheduled for the Xbox Summer Showcase on June 8.