NBA 2K21 Price Indicates Video Game Prices are About to Increase to $70

Gamers are about to see a shift in prices. 2K recently released a graphic outlining all of the pre-order content and pricing for the upcoming NBA 2K21 basketball game and one thing that many noticed is that the version of the game for next-gen consoles, the PS5 and Xbox Series X, costs $69.99. This is $10 more than current prices which have stayed at this price point for quite a while. There’s also the Mamba Forever Edition of the game which will cost $99.99 and give you access to the game both on current-gen and next-gen consoles. Whichever version you purchase will give you the standard edition for the other generation.

First, let’s talk about how many fans are upset about the $99.99 deal. Many companies like Microsoft, Bungie, and CD Projekt Red have revealed promises and initiatives to give cross-gen upgrades for games at no additional cost. Meanwhile, 2K appears to have decided that the upgrade should come at a premium. Personally, I don’t like this additional cost idea and I don’t think it’s a good way for developers and publishers to curry favor with fans.

The other point to talk about is the $10 increase in price for the next generation of games. Let’s face it, games are getting more expensive to make as graphics and technology evolve. Naturally, with inflation, a price increase is inevitable. There are two questions to ask though. First, will other companies also increase their game prices? I think they will. It just makes sense that after roughly 15 years, we’d see a price change. Second, is the change too much? Honestly, I don’t think so. Yes, I think $60 is a little rough for many more casual gamers as it is, but it’s been at that price for about 15 years. Technology has come a long way. Gaming developer teams are constantly growing. I think from an economic standpoint, it makes sense and $10 isn’t too bad. That’s only a 16% increase.

What do you think though? Do you think other companies will increase game prices? What are your thoughts on a $10 increase?

Via: The Verge