Recent shifts have left many Xbox players feeling uncertain about the console’s future. With price hikes for US Xbox consoles and some previously exclusive titles now appearing on PlayStation 5, rumors quickly spread. Over a holiday weekend, whispers of major US retailers like Target and Walmart removing Xbox consoles and games from their shelves became so pervasive that Microsoft had to step in and set the record straight.
Microsoft officially stated that “Target and Walmart, among other retailers, remain committed partners for Xbox consoles, accessories, and games.” Industry observers suggest these rumors might have stemmed from Costco’s decision to clear all Xbox-related products from its digital storefront just before the announced price increases took effect.
The company has also had to address ongoing speculation that Xbox might be exiting the hardware market. This was fueled by partners like Asus handling the production of devices such as the ROG Xbox Ally handheld. However, Xbox VP Jason Ronald has assured the press that the company is fully dedicated to developing its next generation of hardware.
These console price increases coincide with Microsoft’s decision to raise prices for Game Pass subscriptions. Laura Fryer, a former Microsoft employee and a founding member of the original Xbox team, critically labeled these increases as a “betrayal” of gamer trust. While Microsoft later announced that these price adjustments would not affect all players immediately, the more expensive Game Pass tier is notably losing a popular Call of Duty benefit.
Furthermore, some analysts predict that an ad-supported version of Game Pass could be introduced in the future, though this remains purely speculative at this time.
