The Internet Reacts To The Absurd New Price Of An Xbox

Xbox is stepping into the spotlight to counter Sony’s recent barrage of criticism, announcing yet another price hike for its current console lineup. The 512 MB model will see a $100 increase, while the 1 TB version will climb by $150.

In its statement, Microsoft cited the escalating costs of computer storage and memory as the primary driver behind this second adjustment in just eight months. The timing also aligns with the impending release of GTA VI, a surge that is expected to spur a wave of console upgrades and present a lucrative opportunity to extract additional revenue from eager gamers.

Consumer reactions have been mixed, with many lamenting that the current generation feels both inaccessible and overpriced. One user remarked, “This generation of consoles has been a disaster. First you couldn’t get one, now you can’t afford one.” Another echoed the sentiment, noting that while the price hikes are understandable given the RAM crisis, the company must also enhance the overall value proposition to justify the steep costs.

If you’re eyeing a new Xbox but the price tag feels out of reach, Xbox has a solution. In its recent pricing announcement, the company revealed a revamped Buy‑Now‑Pay‑Later scheme, letting you spread the cost over time. Plus, through Amazon, Xbox is offering zero‑interest financing to ease the purchase.

The timing of this announcement is no accident—it lands just as GTA VI pre‑orders open, positioning Xbox to capture the surge of FOMO‑driven buyers and potentially move several million additional units.

I’m puzzled by the decision to announce the price increase so far ahead of time.

This isn’t just a minor tweak; it’s a bold strike, like hurling dynamite with a hammer. pic.twitter.com/8Cf7GVBh59

The price point feels out of reach, and I share the frustration of gamers trying to purchase a console in today’s economic climate.

Let’s focus on the equipment we already own; this isn’t the solution.

Admittedly, she has faced numerous difficult decisions, yet Asha is stepping forward with courage on behalf of Xbox shareholders. I remain confident in her, as she is a friend, and I still cherish my Helix sweater.

While Xbox attributes the price hike to soaring memory expenses, it omits mentioning Microsoft’s own investment in generative AI—and the broader tech sector’s similar moves—as a driver of the steep cost increase. Admitting this would, at least partially, recognize the company’s role in pushing the console’s price to $500, a figure that has been unchanged since its launch six years prior.