Xbox Series X price rises to $1600 amid memory shortage
In European retail stores, the price of the Xbox Series X gaming console has reached $1600, which is double the already increased official recommended retail price.
Shortages and retailer markups
The situation escalated after Microsoft consoles practically disappeared from the shelves of official stores in a number of European countries. For example, in Spain, the devices have been unavailable for several months, and in Sweden, only one major local retailer still has the console in stock.
The Microsoft Store for Sweden lists a price of 7,770 kronor ($770), but it is impossible to order the console there. Taking advantage of the lack of competition, the only major seller has raised the price to $1600. A similar situation is observed in other EU countries: some large retail chains are offering the Xbox Series X for €1325 ($1450).
Official price hike
The availability crisis coincided with price increases by Microsoft itself. Previously, the company officially raised the cost of the Xbox Series X|S line, explaining the decision by rising production costs. After the adjustment, the official price of the Xbox Series X with a disc drive in European Union countries rose from €600 to €800. However, the lack of consoles at official retailers has allowed third-party sellers to set significantly higher prices.
Forecasts for gamers
Experts note that the current console shortage in Europe could negatively affect Microsoft’s position. Buyers are not prepared to pay a significant premium for current-generation devices. Gamers are also expressing dissatisfaction with the situation, noting that for $1600 today, one could build a full-fledged gaming PC.
