"Microsoft admits overpricing 'The Outer Worlds 2' - Xbox maintains full-priced holiday game releases at $69.99, offering refunds for the high-priced title"
In a move seen as a win for consumers, Microsoft has announced a price reduction for its highly anticipated game, The Outer Worlds 2. Originally priced at $79.99, the game will now be available for $69.99 at launch.
The decision comes in response to criticism and "current market conditions", as Microsoft faces backlash for setting a price point higher than the usual standard for holiday releases. An Xbox spokesperson stated, "We are focused on bringing players incredible worlds to explore, and we will keep our full-priced holiday releases, including The Outer Worlds 2, at $69.99."
The market has been unstable for the past few years, with factors such as supply chain issues, trade wars, and inflation from Covid quantitative easing contributing to the volatility. Various businesses, including Microsoft and Sony, have raised prices of their hardware bundles in response to these economic conditions.
The price reduction for The Outer Worlds 2 might also be a strategy to encourage more sales and attract more customers. This strategy seems to be working, as the game will also be available on Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Cloud Gaming, providing an additional avenue for players to access the game.
Interestingly, other upcoming games, such as Borderlands 4, have also seen price reductions, with the game now priced at $69.99 instead of the initially expected $79.99. This trend could be a response to concerns about the sales impact on upcoming games like Call of Duty Black Ops 7.
If you've pre-ordered The Outer Worlds 2 at the $79.99 price point, refunds are available at the point of purchase. Some retailers will start offering refunds today, while others will start from tomorrow. Microsoft has confirmed that the price decrease for Xbox games will also be implemented in the UK and EU.
The Outer Worlds 2, developed by Obsidian Entertainment, is set to launch on October 29, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PS5. The game promises to deliver an immersive and engaging experience, taking players on a journey through a unique and compelling universe.
In a world where costs are generally rising, this price reduction is a welcome development for gamers. It serves as a reminder that consumer feedback can influence corporate decisions, and that there is still room for affordability in the gaming industry.
- The price drop for The Outer Worlds 2 might also encourage consumers to invest in compatible hardware, such as the Xbox Series X and PCs, as they aim to experience the game on higher-end technology.
- With the price reduction, The Outer Worlds 2 will now be more competitively priced with gadgets like the Xbox Series X, which retails at $499, and other popular gaming devices.
- Microsoft's update regarding The Outer Worlds 2's pricing may also have a ripple effect on the gaming industry, encouraging more developers to prioritize affordability in their future releases.
- The Outer Worlds 2, together with other affordable games, can now be watched or played on Windows and Xbox, thanks to Microsoft's recent updates to their technology platforms like Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Cloud Gaming.
- As the technology landscape evolves, gamers can expect more companies to follow Microsoft's lead in adapting to market conditions and consumer feedback, ensuring a competitive and accessible market for gaming enthusiasts.
