Microsoft raises prices of Xbox video game consoles due to 'market conditions'

Core Points - Microsoft has increased the recommended retail prices of its Xbox consoles and some controllers globally due to market conditions and rising costs from tariffs [1][2] - The price increase will affect consumers during the holiday season, but existing video game titles will not see a price hike [2] - Other companies in the industry, such as Nintendo and Sony, have also announced price increases for their consoles and games [3][4] Pricing Details - The entry-level Xbox Series S now costs $379.99, up from $299.99, while the flagship Xbox Series X is priced at $599.99, increased from $499.99 [4] - The special edition Xbox Wireless Controller will rise to $79.99 from $69.99, and new game prices will be set at $79.99 during the holiday season [4] - In 2023, major Microsoft game titles saw a price increase from $60 to $70 [4] Industry Context - The production costs of popular video games have escalated, with Microsoft particularly concerned following its $75.4 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard [5] - The development cost for Activision Blizzard's Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War was reported to exceed $700 million [5] - Microsoft reported increased sales for Call of Duty and Minecraft during the fiscal third quarter [5]