In a move that is not altogether too surprising, it seems likely that PS5 games and Xbox Series X games are going to be more expensive than their current-gen counterparts. This stems from the fact that the current gen version of NBA 2K21 is priced at $59.99, while its next-gen version (and the first next-gen game to be given a price) is $69.99. However, this is just part of a greater discussion surrounding video games and prices, with God of War director Cory Barlog recently sharing his opinion on a game price increase.
Responding to a fan commenting on the $70 a game rumors negatively (but who says he would pay whatever was charged for God of War), Barlog argues that games need an initial price increase. Many understand and share the sentiment, as Barlog puts that idea into direct contrast with the "always on cash grab microtransaction filled hellscape that some games have become." After all, microtransactions can be a dirty word to gamers, as many will agree that there is an acceptable level and some that go way too far. One common sentiment is that a full-priced, triple-A game shouldn't have microtransactions.
Of course, this begs the question brought up by the fan later on, and that's whether or not an initial price increase actually pushes microtransactions away. It remains to be seen, as a lot of this is still in the air, and it's not impossible that 2K Sports is the only publisher thinking of raising prices for next-gen games. It is unlikely, but it's not impossible.
One big question of this price raise is how it'll work with games available on both current and next-gen consoles. With many games offering upgrades to next-gen consoles, many could easily just purchase the current-gen game and get the upgrade, but it's also worth mentioning that not every version will be able at the same nor will it be free. Cyberpunk 2077, for example, is coming to both PS5 and Xbox Series X, but the PS4 and Xbox One versions are the focus now.
Microsoft always wants third-party publishers to take advantage of its Smart Delivery program and make Xbox Series X upgrades free, but not all publishers are likely to follow suit. Microsoft has to work with each publisher in how each wants to handles its games, and not all of them may play ball.
Down the road, as more games are exclusively next-gen, the price increase will likely have a bigger effect. For now, fans just need to wait and see how this turns out, but it may also be wise to put back some extra cash for the next-gen consoles and potentially $70 video games.
A new God of War game is not known to be in development.