– Microsoft is lowering prices on select first-party Xbox games in Europe (e.g., €69.99 instead of €79.99).
– CEO Asha Sharma is focusing on affordability through Game Pass value and financing options, not just game prices.
– Project Helix may include lower-end configurations or a buy now, pay later program to address console cost issues.
– U.S. prices remain stable, but European buyers benefit from the adjustment after currency conversion disadvantages.
– Nintendo has taken a different approach, discounting digital Switch 2 titles while keeping physical versions more expensive.
Xbox CEO Talks Affordability
Recently, Xbox CEO Asha Sharma has addressed concerns over affordability. Much of the discussion has centered on the costs of current consoles and the upcoming Project Helix. Microsoft may also be lowering new Xbox game prices, with Gears of War: E-Day pre-orders discounted in Europe.
European Game Prices Cut
On social media, DanVMaul noted that select titles are €69.99 instead of €79.99. Other affected releases include the Fable reboot expected in February 2027 and the already available Forza Horizon 6. The change may not seem significant to U.S. consumers, since Microsoft backtracked on plans to sell $80 first-party Xbox games. However, European buyers have been disadvantaged after considering currency differences. For example, if Gears of War: E-Day was €79.99, it would convert to around $93. Now, the exclusive is a slightly more affordable $81.
VAT and Regional Pricing
One factor to keep in mind is that U.S. retailers generally don’t include sales tax when advertising sales. EU storefronts typically account for VAT (Value-Added Tax). Nevertheless, the final total usually ends up higher for gamers in Europe. Competitors like Nintendo are less hesitant to embrace higher price tags. That said, the company decided to discount digital Switch 2 titles, while physical versions are more expensive. Microsoft hasn’t followed, but in late 2025, Chief Content Officer Matt Booty pledged to consider “player value” in every decision.
CEO Sharma’s Broader Plan
Comments from CEO Asha Sharma haven’t focused on new Xbox game prices. Yet, she has taken steps to ensure that the ecosystem accommodates all budgets. The executive responded to criticism by cutting rates on some Game Pass tiers. Instead of committing to a Gears of War: E-Day pre-order, Ultimate and PC subscribers can access the shooter on day one. Reversing Xbox console price increases looks more problematic. Tariffs and the memory shortage inflated the MSRPs of the Series X and S systems. Those obstacles still exist, forcing Sharma to find creative solutions. With Project Helix, buyers could see lower-end configurations or opt for a recently leaked buy now, pay later program.
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