Xbox Series X price soars to $1,600 as shortages raise doubts about console exclusives

Low Xbox console supply in many parts of the world is not a new phenomenon. Still, circumstances haven’t improved, with systems even scarcer in Europe and Latin America. When hardware is in stock, some retailers list Xbox Series X prices up to twice MSRP. The drought questions whether Microsoft’s return to exclusive games can succeed.

Jez Corden of Windows Central polled readers outside “traditional English markets” about Xbox console availability. The responses confirm the Xbox Series X|S have disappeared in multiple regions. MondoXbox reports Spain has lacked units for months. He also regrets that events like FanFest are no longer held in the country.

The discussion spilled over to the ResetEra forums, where European gamers cited local Xbox Series X prices. According to Firmus_Anguis, only one Swedish retailer sells the system, and for a shocking amount. Microsoft’s store advertises the sold-out 1TB model with a disc drive for 7,770 SEK, which converts to $770 USD. However, the poster reveals the vendor is asking the equivalent of $1,600.

After the August 1st price increase, the same console's MSRP other part of the EU rose from €599.99 to €799.99. Yet Wandering Through shared that the largest merchant in their country wants €1325.40.

Microsoft’s gaming presence has also dramatically diminished in Latin America. On social media, Portuga claims the company has “abandoned Brazil in terms of hardware.” He notes this contrasts sharply with the start of the current generation, when availability was widespread.

Buyers in the United States have seen fewer stores devote rack space to Xbox. That said, Series X prices are less inflated, and stock levels are less dire at major retailers, including Amazon and Best Buy.

Console exclusives without consoles?

In June, Microsoft admitted storage and memory shortages were hampering manufacturing. Regardless, it pivoted back to Xbox exclusive games, at least sporadically. The first test was Gears of War: E-Day, which launched on October 6th. Alinea Analytics estimates that 230,000 copies have sold on consoles and Steam, hinting at weak performance.

Although it pales in comparison to the PS5, Xbox consoles already have a substantial install base. Even so, it limits game sales if new units aren’t accessible. Market conditions also add to concerns about a potentially disastrous Project Helix debut.

Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not responsible for price changes carried out by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.