According to analysts’ forecasts, the next generation of gaming consoles could become significantly more expensive than their predecessors, with some models potentially reaching a price of up to $999.
Rising costs are being driven by shortages and increasing prices of components, particularly memory, as well as the boom in artificial intelligence, which is consuming a large share of semiconductor resources.
In the past, consoles were often sold at cost or even at a loss, with profits generated through game sales. However, hardware expenses have now risen to the point where manufacturers are being forced to increase prices.
Joost van Dreunen, co-founder of SuperData, predicts that the PlayStation 6 and the next Xbox console could launch at prices about 50% higher than the current generation. If the PlayStation 5 debuted at $499, the base price of the next generation could be around $750.
Dr. Serkan Toto (Kantan Games) believes that a $999 price tag for one of the premium versions of the PlayStation 6 is entirely possible. According to him, the industry is rapidly moving toward a reality where a $1000 console becomes the norm, turning console gaming into a “luxury item.”
It is worth noting that the Epic Games Spring Sale has already started, offering discounts of up to 90%.