Microsoft has reversed its plans to launch “The Outer Worlds 2″ at a higher price point of $80, pulling the title back to the currently more standard $69.99 price when it arrives on October 29th.
Last month, Xbox indicated the title would mark the company’s first $80 retail price title as part of plans for a broader increase in new game prices.
That’s out the window, an Xbox spokesperson saying today: “We’re focused on bringing players incredible worlds to explore, and will keep our full-priced holiday releases, including The Outer Worlds 2, at $69.99, in line with current market conditions.”
How this move will impact other first-party games launching after that, we’ll have to wait and see. Many are wondering if this will have any impact on the pricing for “Call of Duty: Black Ops 7”, which is expected to launch shortly after.
Retail pricing for new games has long been debated, especially in the current age where so many games are filled with microtransactions, available in special editions and are often subjected to fairly quick price drops post-release via numerous sales.
After many years without any price rises, two years ago the industry was able to move up from $59.99 to $69.99 prices for new titles – something that drew complaints but gamers were willing to accept. When Microsoft announced the idea of a further jump to $79.99, the gaming community revolted.
“The Outer Worlds 2” is being released simultaneously on Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC, and will also be available on Game Pass on Day One.
Source: VGC
