Nintendo has surprised the video game world with the announcement that some titles for its new console, the Switch 2, will have a price of 90 euros, a significant increase from the previous price of 70 euros. Doug Bowser, president of Nintendo of America, has stated that the company will implement a “variable pricing” strategy in its software line, thus allowing prices to be adjusted according to each game.
Prices should not be based on the interests of stores
This change has generated various reactions in the video game development community. Michael Douse, publishing director of Larian Studio, emphasized that developers should not be limited by retail pricing rules. Douse shared his opinion via Twitter, arguing that “it’s very liberating not to have to worry about a shelf, but rather about an audience I can easily talk to.”
Industry analysts suggest that the increase to 90 euros may reflect several factors, such as fees in the U.S., a chaotic market, and rising costs. All experts do not hesitate to state that “Nintendo is setting this price because it feels it can and that people will pay”. This raises a scenario where the price of 90 euros could become a new standard in the industry, depending on the success of Nintendo’s pricing model and the overall economic conditions.
Despite the controversy, Nintendo has clarified that not all of its games will be available at this new price. With the rising cost of living and increasing economic pressure, the future of prices in video games seems more uncertain and subject to change. As the Switch 2 continues to gain popularity, it will be interesting to see how the market responds to this new financial strategy.
