In an interview with Game Informer, Microsoft has confirmed their plans to increase the price of Xbox Live in six countries: Austria, Hungary, Israel, Sweden, Turkey, and South Africa. During their interview with Game Informer Microsoft stated the following:
“We occasionally update pricing in a given market to provide a balance of service and value, and in some instances, meet currency fluctuations within the region, and will be adjusting the price of Xbox Live Gold subscription in a small number of markets on June 20, 2016.We do so always keeping in mind that our goal is to offer our members the premium gaming and entertainment service at a fair price.”
The move to increase the price of Xbox Live in these particular countries seems to be an attempt to bring them up to the $10.00 price tag in the US. For example, a South African fan sent Game Informer an email explaining that the price of Xbox Live is about the triple in South Africa. The original price for a month of gold was R50, which converts roughly to $3.25. After the increase hits the South African market, South African Xbox players will have to shell out R159 a month ($10.35).
Several of the other countries’ prices are as follows:
- Hungary: 2,000 Ft (Approximately $7.19 per month)
- Israel: 37.99 ILS (Approximately $10.05 per month)
- Sweden: 79 kr (Approximately $9.58 per month)
- Turkey: 18.99 TL (Approximately $6.40 per month)
Austria has not been added to this list from the confusion surrounding the possible pricing of Xbox Live due to Austria’s use of the Euro. At this time, it is not 100% clear what will determine the price of Xbox Live within Austria in comparison to other EU countries, though Microsoft has followed up with Game Informer saying that the price in Austria will be determined by the market. Which, while vague, may point towards the price being determined by the value added tax (VAT) which is applied individually to each nation within the EU who use the Euro.
Microsoft also stated that they are always willing to listen to fan feedback in an attempt to deliver the best product possible and have also said that Xbox Live codes are not region locked so you can also try and get the best deal for your buck.
So what are your thoughts on this? Does this price increase affect you? , if you’re one of our international fans? Let us know what you think down below!
