- Xbox recently saw a massive revenue decline of about 44% in terms of hardware sales.
- Following this report, the company is increasing console prices in Japan, a region it is already struggling with.
- This is the second time prices have been increased in this region.
While Xbox has performed well on the software side, its hardware results have been quite concerning. Recently, it was reported that the Xbox Series S|X were performing better in Japan than Microsoft’s last-generation console.
However, it seems this success will be shortlived. Microsoft has just confirmed another price hike for its consoles in the region.
Why it matters: Xbox is struggling to sell its consoles to the masses. The Japanese region is already one of its weakest, making this price hike quite shocking.
As reported by Famitsu, the Xbox Series X will be priced at 66,978 yen, up from the old 59,978 yen price.
Meanwhile, the 512GB Xbox Series S will now cost 44,578 yen, up from 37,978 yen. Finally, the 1TB Xbox Series S has seen its price reach 49,978 yen after a 5,000 yen increase.
This price increment will take effect on August 15, so those who want the consoles at the previous prices should buy them before the deadline. All in all, the consoles now cost up to 18% more.
In the Japanese markets, the main console at the top from a sales point of view is the Nintendo Switch, so it’s surprising that Xbox is increasing its prices. The gaming giant states that prices were adjusted due to market conditions, but this move is surprising.
It is also important to note that this is not the first time Xbox prices have been raised in Japan. Ultimately, this decision could hurt Microsoft’s position in the region, putting it further behind the PS5 and the Nintendo Switch.
Xbox has recently confirmed that it is moving toward a software focus. This move is further proof, but the console business continues to suffer due to such decisions.
Apart from Japan, Xbox has raised its prices in various other regions in the past. Countries like Brazil have seen Xbox Series S console prices going up in the past, with Microsoft being unable to justify these decisions.
Thank you! Please share your positive feedback. 🔋
How could we improve this post? Please Help us. 😔
[News Reporter]
Bawal is an MBBS student by day and a gaming journalist by night. He has been gaming since childhood, growing fond of the creativity and innovation of the industry. His career as a gaming journalist started one year ago, and his journey has allowed him to write reviews, previews, and features for various sites. Bawal has also been cited in reputed websites such as Screenrant, PCGamesN, WCCFTech, GamesRadar, and more.
Join Our Community
