Xbox Game Pass and the Xbox Series X are getting a price hike

The price of Xbox Game Pass is increasing by $1 in all markets, while the cost of Xbox Series X is also increasing in all regions except the US, Japan, Chile, Brazil, and Colombia starting in August.

This news comes from the edge, who reported on the price hike earlier this week. The Game Pass price increase will affect both the base version of the service and Game Pass Ultimate.

Speaking to The Verge, Xbox’s head of communications Kari Perez commented on the Xbox Series X price increase, stating: “We’ve maintained our prices for consoles for many years and have adjusted them to reflect competitive conditions in every market.” As a result, Xbox Series X will cost £479.99 in the UK, €549.99 in Europe, $649.99 in Canada, and $799.99 in Australia.

This news comes in the midst of a global recession, in which businesses and individuals alike are aware of rising financial costs across the board. Earlier this year, Microsoft laid off 10,000 employees in an attempt to curb these mounting fiscal pressures. However, the ensuing months have only seen an increase in layoffs in the tech sector and cost cutting across the industry.

Whether you’re an average Xbox owner seeing a small bump in your Game Pass subscription, or someone now feeling the sudden pressure to buy an Xbox Series X before August to save a little money, it’s a tough time. all around. I for one have to go out and get a console before Starfield releases, and I guess I won’t be the only one.

What do you think of this price increase? There’s no real silver lining in this – did you see it coming or is it a shock to you? Let us know below!