Xbox consoles become much more expansive

The global wave of price increases in the gaming industry continues – now Microsoft has officially joined it. The company announced an increase in prices for Xbox game consoles and related accessories in almost all markets.

According to updated information, the base model Xbox Series S (512 GB) will now cost $379.99 instead of the previous $299. The more powerful Xbox Series X (1 TB) has increased in price from $499 to $599.99. The cost of other versions has also increased:

• Series S (1 TB) – $429.99,
• Series X Digital – $549.99,
• special edition Series X 2 TB Galaxy Black – $729.99.

The wireless controller is now priced at $64.99, while the Xbox One headset is priced at $119.99. The price increase for the headphones will only affect the US and Canadian markets for now. At the same time, Microsoft has decided not to change the price of the adaptive gamepad, designed for users with disabilities.

As for games, the changes will come into effect later: flagship Xbox titles will increase in price from $70 to $80, but only closer to the end of the year. The Xbox Game Pass subscription will remain unchanged at this stage.

Thus, Xbox joins the global trend of increasing the price of gaming products, which has already affected other major brands.

In anticipation of the release of DOOM: The Dark Ages, Microsoft decided to add a little more excitement and introduced a line of Xbox accessories designed in the style of the new game.

Among the new products is the Xbox wireless gamepad, designed in a gray-green color scheme, reminiscent of the armor of the Executioner of Doom. The blood stain on the case only enhances this image. The controller will be available for a limited time – you can order it until April 18 on the Microsoft Store for $80. The kit will include a DLC code with a unique costume for the main character, which will be opened on the day of the game’s release.

Microsoft also paid special attention to gamers who prefer premium solutions. For them, the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller was prepared in a black and red design with demonic DOOM motifs. The cost of the device is $200, pre-orders are already available, and deliveries will start on April 25.

The third piece in the collection is a removable cover for the Xbox Series X. It features a dark stone design and features a red DOOM symbol as its centerpiece. The $55 accessory complements the series’ dark aesthetic. DOOM: The Dark Ages will be released on May 15 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series.