Microsoft [MSFT] has announced that it will be increasing the subscription fees to its Xbox Live Gold service from the 1st of November 2010, a move which won’t be welcomed by Xbox Live Gold subscribers.
Microsoft will increase the yearly subscription fee from $50 to $60, quarterly subscriptions will rise from $20 to $25, and monthly subscriptions will increase from $8 to $10 a month.
Special Deal for Existing Subscribers
Microsoft is currently offering Xbox Live Gold subscribers a special deal, which will allow them to get an extra year’s subscription to the service for just $40. This could give some users a subscription until 2012, but the deal will only be available for a short while. This offer is likely an attempt to soften the blow of the price increase and retain customer loyalty during the transition period.
Comparing Xbox Live Gold to Other Platforms
The price increase has sparked a lot of discussions, especially when compared to other gaming platforms. For instance, playing online on the PlayStation 3 (PS3) and the Nintendo Wii doesn’t require a subscription fee. This has led many gamers to question the value proposition of Xbox Live Gold.
However, it’s important to note that Xbox Live Gold offers a range of features that are not available on these other platforms. These include exclusive discounts on games, early access to demos, and a more robust online multiplayer experience. Additionally, Xbox Live Gold members get free games every month through the Games with Gold program, which can add significant value over time.
The increase in subscription fees could be seen as a way for Microsoft to continue investing in and improving the Xbox Live service. The company has been known to add new features and enhancements regularly, such as improved matchmaking, cloud saves, and integration with other Microsoft services like Windows 10 and Microsoft Store.
Community Reactions and Future Implications
The community reaction to the price increase has been mixed. Some users feel that the additional cost is justified given the quality and range of services provided by Xbox Live Gold. Others, however, are less convinced and are considering switching to other platforms or downgrading their subscriptions.
For example, a user on a popular gaming forum mentioned, “I’ve been a loyal Xbox Live Gold subscriber for years, but this price hike is making me reconsider. I might just stick to single-player games or switch to PS3 for online multiplayer.”
On the other hand, another user commented, “The extra $10 a year is worth it for me. The free games and exclusive discounts I get through Xbox Live Gold more than make up for the cost.”
Microsoft’s decision to increase the subscription fees could also have broader implications for the gaming industry. It may prompt other companies to reevaluate their pricing strategies and the value they offer to their customers. Additionally, it could lead to increased competition among gaming platforms, as they strive to offer the best value for online gaming services.
In conclusion, while the price increase for Xbox Live Gold subscriptions may not be welcomed by all, it is a move that reflects the ongoing investment and enhancements Microsoft is making to its online gaming platform. Whether this will pay off in terms of customer satisfaction and loyalty remains to be seen, but it is clear that the landscape of online gaming services is continually evolving.
What do you guys think about the price increase? Especially since playing online on the PS3 and the Nintendo Wii doesn’t require a subscription fee.
via
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
