Xbox Live prices to triple in South Africa, up in five other countries
Microsoft has confirmed an increase in Xbox Live Gold subscriptions in six countries.
Xbox Live prices to triple in South Africa, up in five other countries
Xbox Live Gold subscriptions are set to go up in price in six countries soon. Microsoft confirmed the change to Game Informer, after the site received a tip from a South African reader.
Austria, Hungary, Israel, South Africa, Sweden, and Turkey will all see a price hike, starting June 20. South Africa in particular has the highest increase, from R50,00 ($3.25) to R159,00 ($10.33) for the monthly sub.
The increase aims to bring these prices in line with those of the US, which stand at $9.99 per month and $59.99 per year.
"We occasionally update pricing in a given market to provide a balance of service and value, and in some instances, meet currency fluctuations within the region, and will be adjusting the price of Xbox Live Gold subscription in a small number of markets on June 20, 2016," a Microsoft rep told the site.
"We do so always keeping in mind that our goal is to offer our members the premium gaming and entertainment service at a fair price."
However, in the Austria's case in particular, things seem a bit strange. As the site notes, Austria, like other EU countries, uses the Euro as its currency. Xbox Live subscription in the region have traditionally included VAT taxes in all countries, despite each of them having varying VAT values.
This could mean that subscription fees in other European countries may go higher than the standard €6.99 in the near future. When asked for comment, Microsoft provided the site with the following statement.
"This is based on market rather than currency, and the new price in Austria aligns with other European markets.
"We occasionally update pricing to provide a balance of service and value. Xbox Live Gold codes are not region-locked. Customers may redeem any Xbox Live code regardless of where it was purchased."
We'll update the story when new prices for the affected regions become available.