According to Reports – Sega Joins $70 Game Price Trend

Sega, a prominent game publisher, is contemplating a move to increase game prices to $70, aligning with the emerging industry trend. In its latest earnings report, Sega acknowledged the shift in the market, citing the recent adoption of $69.99 as the new standard for AAA console titles by major companies like 2K Games and Square Enix.

While Sega has traditionally sold its blockbuster games at $59.99, the company expressed its intention to review game prices and assess the feasibility of price increases. The decision will be based on factors such as market conditions and the perceived value of their titles.

Recent releases from Sega, such as the Yakuza spin-off remake, Like a Dragon: Ishin!, and Sonic Frontiers, have been priced at $60, reflecting the previous industry standard. However, future installments of the Yakuza and Sonic franchises may see an increase to $70. The next Yakuza game, known as Like a Dragon 8 in Japan, is slated for a 2024 release.

The move towards $70 game prices began with Take-Two Interactive’s NBA 2K21 for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. Other major players in the industry, including Activision, Sony, Square Enix, and Ubisoft, followed suit. Microsoft’s Redfall and Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom were notable $70 titles as well, although Nintendo plans to keep some games at the $60 price point for the time being.

It’s worth noting that the price increases have primarily affected console games, while PC versions have remained $10 cheaper on average. However, with the rising budgets of AAA games, it is likely that PC prices will also see adjustments in the future.

As Sega evaluates its game pricing strategy, industry trends and the economic landscape will play a crucial role in determining the company’s final decision.