Console Prices Are Rising, but GTA 6 Might Save Them

Tariffs introduced by the U.S. government are starting to take effect. And, of course, they hit their own population first. Price hikes are being felt by people of all walks of life, professions, and hobbies. Gamers included. A month ago, Sony officially announced that all current PlayStation models in the U.S. would go up by $50 (some prices now match those set in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand back in April):

• PS5 Digital Edition — $500;
• PS5 — $550;
• PS5 Pro — $800.

Now it has also come to light that Microsoft’s lineup is about to get more expensive as well, with new recommended retail pricing (RRP) tags for retailers:

• Xbox Series S 512 GB — $400 (after October 3) — $380 (before October 3);
• Xbox Series S 1 TB — $450 — $430;
• Xbox Series X Digital — $600 — $550;
• Xbox Series X — $650 — $600;
• Xbox Series X 2 TB Galaxy Black Special Edition — $800 — $730.

For now, this applies only to the U.S. But there’s no guarantee consoles won’t get pricier in other regions too. Unsurprisingly, analysts at Newzoo note that this sector is already growing slower than mobile and PC gaming. That trend may well continue next year. Still, GTA 6 is expected to turn the tide — with its release likely sparking a major boost in demand for consoles.

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