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Windows Central
Windows Central
Technology
Jennifer Young

Game prices rose higher in 2025, but is AAA losing out to budget titles? I tried "voting with my wallet" — and I don't regret it

Dave the Diver holding an Xbox Ally X. .

Game prices were a hot topic this year, and you've probably heard the same thing on repeat (and not just about gaming). Everything is getting more expensive.

From Nintendo's $80 Switch 2 games, to Xbox trying (and later walking back) Outer Worlds 2 pricing, it's easy to feel like the industry is moving towards a future where only the most financially comfortable get to play new releases at launch.

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