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Date: 01-may-2025
The cost of console gaming just got steeper in parts of Europe. Micromania, a leading video game retailer in France, has quietly increased the price of the Xbox Series X to €600—a notable jump from the previous retail price of €549.99. This €50 price hike has triggered concerns that other retailers across Europe may follow suit.
Gamers and industry watchers are interpreting the move as an early signal of a broader pricing trend amid economic instability and global trade tensions. Microsoft has yet to comment on this specific retail price change, but the company previously announced global adjustments to console and subscription pricing in mid-2023.
In June 2023, Microsoft raised the official price of the Xbox Series X in several markets, citing increased operational costs. While countries like the U.S., Japan, Brazil, and Colombia were spared, most European countries saw the price reset to around €549.99. Micromania's latest increase pushes that boundary even further.
The sudden jump in price at Micromania has left customers wondering whether Microsoft will implement a region-wide increase in 2025, especially as global economic factors—like tariffs on electronics and currency fluctuations—continue to affect pricing strategies.
“We’re entering an era where even digital entertainment is feeling the inflation pinch,” one Reddit user commented on the growing chatter around the Micromania listing. Enthusiasts across forums and social media are expressing frustration over the increasing cost of maintaining next-gen gaming setups.
In addition to console price increases, Microsoft also raised Game Pass subscription rates in July 2023. In Europe, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate went from €12.99 to €14.99/month, while the standard Console plan jumped from €9.99 to €10.99/month. These moves have further fueled speculation that costlier access to gaming may become the new norm.
While it remains unclear whether the Xbox Series X price hike at Micromania is isolated or part of a larger shift, analysts warn that other retailers may adjust their pricing soon—especially if supply chain constraints or import tariffs persist throughout 2025.
Gamers are advised to monitor official Xbox announcements and regional pricing trends closely. As of now, no new pricing changes have been confirmed by Microsoft for the broader European market, but many believe it’s only a matter of time.
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