Microsoft Reverses Decision To Increase Xbox Live Gold Prices
January 24, 2021Microsoft back peddles on its decision to increase pricing of its Xbox Live Gold membership. Initially, the plan was to increase the price of the gaming subscription by USD1 for the 1-month membership and USD3 for a 3-month membership. This would have equated to USD10.99 for 1-month, USD29.99 for 3 months and USD59.99 for 6 months.
The move was based on Microsoft’s assessment of its rates, which haven’t changed in 10 years. It felt that this was the time to reassess its pricing structure that represents the current market. This is what the company’s initial statement:
“Periodically, we assess the value and pricing of our services to reflect changes in regional marketplaces and to continue to invest in the Xbox community; we’ll be making price adjustments for Xbox Live Gold in select markets.”
However, public outcry caused the company to reassess its pricing changes. Microsoft may have done this out of fear of losing its customers to rival platforms. Unlike the old days when it had the market to itself, its Xbox division not only faces fierce competition from Sony but upstart game streaming services such as that from Google’s Stadia.
Credit: Microsoft
Hoping to appease disgruntled gamers, Microsoft released the following statement:
“We messed up today and you were right to let us know. Connecting and playing with friends is a vital part of gaming and we failed to meet the expectations of players who count on it every day. As a result, we have decided not to change Xbox Live Gold pricing.”
“We’re turning this moment into an opportunity to bring Xbox Live more in line with how we see the player at the center of their experience. For free-to-play games, you will no longer need an Xbox Live Gold membership to play those games on Xbox. We are working hard to deliver this change as soon as possible in the coming months.”
“If you are an Xbox Live Gold member already, you stay at your current price for renewal. New and existing members can continue to enjoy Xbox Live Gold for the same prices they pay today. In the US, $9.99 for 1-month, $24.99 for 3-months, $39.99 for 6-months and $59.99 for retail 12-months.”
Xbox Live Gold members can rest easy now, knowing that they can continue to enjoy the current subscription pricing for the foreseeable future.
