Xbox Series X Price Hike Confirmed: How to Get One Before It’s More Expensive

Xbox Price Hike 2025: What It Means for Gamers & What's Next🎮💰

Microsoft has just dropped a bombshell—**Xbox Series X|S consoles and select games are getting more expensive in 2025!** 😲 With the holiday season approaching, gamers are scrambling to understand **why prices are rising, how much more they’ll pay, and whether it’s still worth buying an Xbox**.

This isn’t just about hardware—**Xbox first-party games are also jumping to $80**, following Sony’s PlayStation pricing model. Is this the end of Xbox’s value advantage? Let’s break it all down.

📈 Xbox Price Increases: The Full Breakdown**

Microsoft has confirmed **across-the-board price hikes** for Xbox consoles, accessories, and games. Here’s what’s changing:

🛒 Xbox Console Price Changes (Effective Holiday 2025)**

- **Xbox Series X** → **$549** (up from $499)

- **Xbox Series S (1TB Black Edition)** → **$399** (up from $349)

- **Xbox Series S (512GB White)** → **$299** (unchanged, but stock may be limited)

🎮 Xbox Game Price Increases**

- **First-party Xbox games (Starfield, Forza, Gears, etc.)** → **$79.99** (up from $69.99)

- **Third-party titles may follow** (Activision, EA, Ubisoft games likely to increase)

🔌 Xbox Accessories Also Getting More Expensive**

- **Xbox Wireless Controller** → **$69.99** (up from $59.99)

- **Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller** → **$199.99** (up from $179.99)

- **Xbox Expansion Cards (1TB)** → **$159.99** (up from $149.99)

❓ Why Is Xbox Raising Prices Now?**

Microsoft cites **rising production costs, inflation, and increased investment in Xbox Game Pass** as key reasons. But there’s more to the story:

✅ **PlayStation Already Did It** – Sony raised PS5 prices in 2022 (except in the US).

✅ **Game Pass Growth Slowing** – Microsoft needs more revenue streams.

✅ **Next-Gen Xbox Rumors** – A price hike could mean a **new Xbox console is coming in 2026**.

📊 Did You Know?**

- Xbox Series X|S has sold **over 35 million units** (as of 2025).

- Game Pass has **34 million subscribers**, but growth has slowed.

- **70% of Xbox owners** buy digital games, making price hikes more noticeable.

💡 How to Avoid Paying More: Smart Buying Tips**

If you’ve been on the fence about buying an Xbox, **now is the time to act**. Here’s how to save:

1. Buy Before the Price Hike (Holiday 2025 Deadline) 🚀- Retailers like **Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart** may still have stock at old prices.

- **Black Friday 2025** could be the last chance for discounts before the increase.

2. Use Xbox All Access (Monthly Payments) 💳**

- **$34.99/month for Series X** (includes Game Pass Ultimate).

- **$24.99/month for Series S** (also includes Game Pass).

- **Lock in current rates before the increase!**

3. Buy Physical Games (Before $80 Becomes Standard) 💿**

- Retailers often discount physical copies faster than digital.

- Trade-in programs (GameStop, etc.) can help offset costs.

4. Share Game Pass with Friends/Family 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦**

- Microsoft may introduce a **Game Pass Family Plan** (rumored at $25/month for 5 users).

🔮 What’s Next for Xbox?**

This price hike suggests **big changes are coming**. Here’s what to expect:

✅ **New Xbox Console in 2026?** – Leaks suggest a **mid-gen refresh or cloud-focused device**.

✅ **More Game Pass Day-One Releases** – Activision Blizzard games (Call of Duty, Diablo) joining soon.

✅ **Xbox Cloud Gaming Expansion** – Microsoft is pushing hard for a **Netflix-for-gaming future**.

But there are risks:

❌ **PlayStation 5 Pro Could Steal Momentum** – Sony’s next upgrade may overshadow Xbox.

❌ **Game Pass Price Hikes Next?** – If console prices rise, subscriptions could follow.

❌ **Backlash from Gamers** – Will fans accept higher prices without major exclusives?

🎯 Should You Buy an Xbox Now or Wait?**

Buy Now If:**

- You want the **best current-gen performance (Series X)**.

- You’re worried about **future price hikes on games & accessories**.

- You love **Game Pass and want to lock in current rates**.

✔ Wait If:**

- You’re hoping for a **next-gen Xbox in 2026**.

- You mostly play on **PC or PlayStation**.

- You want to see if **Game Pass gets a family plan**.

💬 Your Thoughts?**

Will you buy an Xbox before the price hike? Or are you switching to PlayStation/PC? Let us know in the comments! 👇 #Xbox #Gaming #GamePass