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Microsoft Raises Xbox Dev Kit Price to $2,000 in Immediate Global Move

Microsoft attributes the change to macroeconomic pressures tied to tariffs.

Overview

  • The Xbox Development Kit jumps from $1,500 to $2,000, a 33% increase that Microsoft communicated to developers effective immediately.
  • The Verge reports the higher price applies in the United States, Europe, and other regions, not just the U.S. market.
  • Microsoft cited macroeconomic factors, and reporters note the scale of recent Xbox price hikes aligns with the U.S. administration’s 30% tariff on goods from China.
  • The move follows 2025 increases to Xbox hardware and subscriptions, including a second Series X price rise and a 50% hike to $30 per month for Game Pass Ultimate.
  • Industry observers warn the higher cost could weigh on smaller studios, even as reports indicate Microsoft is exploring shifting some Xbox and Surface production out of China to reduce tariff exposure over time.