To say the industry is in shambles would be an understatement. Layoffs happen almost daily, games shut down without notice, and some consoles get some egregious price increases that many never expect. Of the latter, we’re talking about Xbox, which just announced that its 512 GB and 1 TB models will get a price increase, while the 2 TB model will be discontinued. Despite Xbox’s efforts to win people’s good graces, many believe this will have the opposite effect.
Xbox Increases the Price of Its 512 GB and 1 TB Models by $100 and $150, Respectively
Earlier today, Xbox announced that its 512 GB and 1 TB models would get a price increase. It will be $100 for the former and $150 for the latter. On top of that, its 2 TB model will be discontinued, meaning that no one will be able to purchase it anymore. The price shift will take place on August 1.
This came as a shock to everyone, as weeks earlier, during Summer Game Fest, the new CEO announced it would give away consoles to attendees. Then yesterday, she claimed that gaming is becoming “unaffordable” for players, saying costs are now too high for them to afford a console or even a new video game. Naturally, this felt like a dichotomy, given how the CEO has been trying to get the public’s favor back, but instantly announces a price hike, which won’t sit well with potential customers, especially those looking forward to new Xbox exclusives coming soon.
On the other hand, many believe this could also be a marketing tactic. Xbox exclusives are back on the menu, so there is now a reason to purchase the console again. Sadly, those who want to play these first-party titles at launch on said console will have to pull the trigger and buy a Series X|S with the new price.
Ultimately, gamers are extremely sad, as the industry just seems to be going backward. Furthermore, this generation has just felt lacking in many ways, and while many believe we’re reaching its end, some also think that there’s nothing worth mentioning about it and are skeptical about what the future of the industry will look like.
