Microsoft Virtually Finished Xbox Series S
Xbox Series S, which reached a wide range of gamers with its budget-friendly structure, can no longer hold this title. Microsoft‘s price increases on the hardware side have completely disrupted the affordable price-performance balance offered by this model in particular. The console’s new price makes it less recommendable.
Xbox Series S’ Affordable Price Advantage Has Ended
Xbox Series S, which attracted attention with its $300 price when it was released, became the most economical way to access new-generation games, especially when combined with a Game Pass subscription. However, this advantage disappeared when Microsoft increased Game Pass fees while increasing hardware prices. The 512 GB model is now sold for $380, while the 1 TB version is sold for $430. At this price level, it is difficult to talk about an attractive alternative for the Series S, whose technical features are quite weak.
The Series S’s presence in the market offered gamers the freedom to choose a console according to their budget. It was an ideal device especially for children, beginners and occasional gamers. However, with the new pricing, most of these audiences are either turning to more powerful alternatives such as the PlayStation 5 or shifting to the second-hand market. Hardware features that were considered reasonable in 2020 are insufficient today.
Following the rising prices, the appeal of Game Pass has also diminished. The platform, once considered the “best game subscription service”, no longer has the same effect with its new subscription packages full of restrictions and increasing monthly fees. The definition of “Game Pass machine” has lost its validity, especially for Series S users. When the total cost exceeds $400 with the new prices, this system no longer meets the definition of “budget-friendly”.
Although it is possible for Microsoft to back down from these decisions in the future, when the current picture is looked at, it is seen that Series S is no longer the focus. It is thought that the company will return to a single-model approach in its new console strategy in the coming period. This seems like it will make the developers’ job easier and provide a clearer product for the consumer.
Read More: Is Jason a Police Officer in GTA 6?
