The Shift in AAA Game Pricing: A Closer Look at Microsoft and Obsidian’s Decision
In recent years, the standard pricing for AAA video games from major developers has surged to $70, reflecting industry trends. Nintendo notably broke away from the mold earlier this year, setting a new precedent by pricing its Mario Kart World at $80. Despite initial indications that Microsoft might soon adopt this higher price point, the company has decided to maintain the $70 price cap for its key releases, at least until the holiday season of 2025.
Microsoft’s Pricing Strategy: Stability Amid Market Changes
As the gaming landscape evolves, Microsoft has revised its plans. The company recently announced that it will keep the price of high-profile games, including the much-anticipated The Outer Worlds 2 from Obsidian Entertainment, at $69.99. This decision aligns with current market dynamics, signaling a cautious approach amidst pricing fluctuations across the gaming industry.
In an official statement, Microsoft expressed its commitment to delivering exceptional gaming experiences while adhering to adjusted pricing strategies: “We’re focused on bringing players incredible worlds to explore, and will keep our full priced holiday releases, including The Outer Worlds 2, at $69.99 – in line with current market conditions, ” as reported by Windows Central.
Obsidian’s Response to Pricing Concerns
Emphasizing transparency and community engagement, Obsidian Entertainment took to social media to convey their understanding of fan concerns regarding the game’s pricing. They crafted a humorous message in line with the game’s lore:
Dear Galactic Citizens!⁰⁰We have received your SOS via skip drone about the pricing. As an organization devoted to making sure that corporations do not go unfettered, we at the Earth Directorate have worked with [REDACTED] to revise the price of The Outer Worlds 2. While this… pic.twitter.com/skOjxWBXIB
— The Outer Worlds (@OuterWorlds) July 23, 2025
Refund Processes for Pre-orders
In tandem with the pricing update, Obsidian provided detailed guidance on how pre-order customers will receive refunds. According to their forums, players who have already secured a pre-order for The Outer Worlds 2 will be accommodated through various digital platforms:
- On Steam, transactions will be reversed, and funds will be credited back to users’ Steam Wallets.
- For Xbox consoles and Windows, the initial $80 will be charged about 10 days before launch, followed by a $10 credit issued to players.
- PlayStation Store users can expect similar handling, although refunds may arrive within a couple of weeks.
- Battle.net pre-orders will be canceled, but players will have the opportunity to re-order at the adjusted price later.
This decision reflects a broader trend in the gaming industry where companies are reassessing pricing strategies in response to consumer feedback, economic factors, and competitor positioning.
For further details, you can check out the original announcement and response from Obsidian here.
As we approach the holiday season, it will be intriguing to see how these pricing adjustments impact consumer behavior and the overall market landscape.
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