Xbox Live Price to Increase in Some Countries

Microsoft has confirmed to Game Informer that the price of Xbox Live Gold will increase in six countries. Austria, Hungary, Israel, South Africa, Sweden, and Turkey can expect to see the price of Microsoft's online gaming service rise in the near future.

Game Informer received an email from a South African reader, who alerted the publication to the price increase. The email said that the price would triple from R50 ($3.25 USD) to R159 ($10.33 USD). Microsoft confirmed with the following statement.

"We occasionally update pricing in a given market to provide a balance of service and value, and in some instances, meet currency fluctuations within the region, and will be adjusting the price of Xbox Live Gold subscription in a small number of markets on June 20, 2016. We do so always keeping in mind that our goal is to offer our members the premium gaming and entertainment service at a fair price."

Xbox Live costs $9.99 in the United States, and the increases are happening to bring the conversion in line with the American price.

The new prices for Hungary, Israel, Sweden, Turkey, and Austria have not been confirmed. However, Austria seems a bit confusing, as its currency is the Euro, and European Union countries are all charged €6.99 regardless of its value added tax. When Game Informer asked for more information on what this means for Austria, it received the following answer.

"We believe this model suits the way our fans want to pay for Xbox Live Gold memberships in Austria. We are always listening to customer feedback, but have nothing to share about other markets at this time."

We've contacted Microsoft ourselves to ask for additional comment on this story. We'll update with any information we receive.