Although the increase in video game prices increases in parallel with the development of technology and content, we may be on the verge of a new and serious increase.
The video game industry has been witnessing significant changes in pricing policies lately. Blizzard’s pricing strategies planned for Diablo 4 and Rockstar’s pre-GTA 6 statements, game prices shows an increasing trend.
We May Be on the Verge of Big Increases in Video Game Prices
Pricing in the video game industry has changed significantly over the years. In the early 1980s, the price of a video game was usually around $20-$30. However, these prices have increased over time due to the development of technology, the increase in the production costs of games and market dynamics.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, game prices settled around $50-$60 on average. During this period, games became more complex, development processes took longer, and marketing costs increased. In addition, technological developments of game consoles and improvement of graphics have also increased costs.
In the last 10 years, prices have increased even more, especially for high-budget games called AAA. The average price for the standard edition of most AAA games is around $60-$70, sometimes higher. These games often offer high-quality graphics, lengthy story modes, and large-scale multiplayer experiences.
Blizzard’s New Strategy and Diablo 4
Blizzard announced Diablo 4’s expansion pack, Vessel of Hatred, at BlizzCon. However, what really attracted attention was the company’s survey for future game pricing. According to the leaked survey shared by Bellular News on YouTube, Blizzard Diablo 4 DLCIt is working on different pricing options for ‘s and its expansions. The packages mentioned include price points of $50, $70, $80, and $100, and the features offered for each price level vary.
Pricing Policy of Rockstar and GTA 6
CEO of Rockstar and Take Two Interactive Strauss Zelnick while calling for investment Games should be priced according to their duration. he stated. This means games are priced differently based on their estimated play time. This approach argues that the value per hour of games should be determined by the final value perceived by the customer.
Steam and Global Price Increases
Changes in Steam’s pricing policy also attract attention. Especially in Turkey, the conversion from TL to USD shows that prices have increased secretly. Global increases in Xbox Game Pass and PS Plus prices also support this trend.
These developments show that game pricing policies in the video game industry are becoming increasingly complex and costly. Players may face higher costs in the face of ever-increasing prices, which could change consumption habits in the industry. If this trend continues, it is worth keeping a close eye on the gaming industry’s pricing policies and players’ reactions to it.
These price increases will certainly affect players’ purchasing preferences and gaming habits. Increasing prices, especially for high-quality and long-running games, may push players to be more selective. This will present challenges, especially for indie game developers and smaller studios, as their games are often made by larger studios. to AAA games It is produced with lower budgets and sold at more affordable prices.
It is also likely that alternative means of accessing games, such as subscription-based gaming services, will increase in popularity. Services such as Xbox Game Pass and PS Plus provide cost-effective alternatives for gamers by offering access to a wide range of games for a fixed monthly fee. Such services can help players better manage their budgets in the face of high prices. However, in this case, you should remember that you do not own the game. You won’t have the chance to put it aside and start over a few years later.
On the other hand, increasing game prices may also pave the way for the development of the second-hand market in digital game sales. After purchasing higher-priced games, players can earn some back by selling those games on the second-hand market. This will create a new revenue model for both players and the gaming industry.
These changes in pricing policies in the video game industry will have significant impacts for both players and developers. The increase in game prices seems to lead to the shaping of new trends and consumer behavior in the industry.
Extra payment options such as in-game purchases and DLC (downloadable content) diversify the income sources of game companies. Although these methods are considered controversial by some players, they have become an important revenue model for the industry.
This situation may significantly affect the future of the gaming industry and cause changes in the structure of the player base in the industry. Therefore, developments in the industry’s pricing policies will continue to be constantly monitored by the entire gaming community. However, the visible village does not require a guide either. It is also necessary to foresee that there may be an increase between 10% and 15% in game prices in the coming short term.
If you ask how this will affect the industry, you can share it with us in the comments.