A developer from Baldur’s Gate 3 thinks video game prices need to increase.
Michael Douse, who handles publishing at Larian Studios, shared his thoughts
about the cost of new video games. He posted a screenshot of the pricey Ultimate Edition of Star Wars Outlaws and criticized “vague content promises” used to justify high prices. He believes game prices should reflect their quality and depth, but also mentioned that most new games should now cost more.
Almost all games should cost more at a base level because the cost of making them (inflation, for one) is outpacing pricing trends. But I don’t think we’ll get there with DLC promises so much as quality & communication. Everyone’s just waiting for GTA6 to do it lol.
— Very AFK (@Cromwelp)
According to Douse, “Almost all games should cost more at a base level because the cost of making them (inflation, for one) is outpacing pricing trends.” He added that better communication and quality are key, saying “Everyone’s just waiting for GTA [VI] to do it, lol.”
Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick has not given a clear answer on whether GTA VI will have a price tag over $70. He talked about delivering great value instead of addressing the price directly.
Releasing in fall 2025, GTA VI is expected to boost the industry alongside Switch 2 next year. Ubisoft’s Yves Guillemot believes that GTA VI will benefit everyone and isn’t worried about launching games around the same time.
Fans often wonder why game prices are so high.
The $70 price point began with PS5 and Xbox Series X|S in late 2020. Take-Two started this trend with NBA 2K21, followed by Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War and Demon’s Souls at the same price. Earlier this year, Embracer CEO Lars Wingefors suggested that it might take one company raising prices to see how players respond.
