Game Pricing
Ongoing coverage on Game Pricing.
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Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced launches to "Mixed" Steam reviews amid complaints about microtransactions and $80 DLC, Ubisoft fires back that they're "never a requirement"
Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced has launched to mixed reviews on Steam, with players criticizing the game's $80 DLC and microtransactions, which offer gameplay advantages. Ubisoft responded by stating the standard edition is a complete experience and the additional packs are optional. The company also defended its stance on microtransactions, claiming they enhance player enjoyment.
Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced’s DLC Packs “Entirely Optional,” Says Ubisoft After Backlash
Ubisoft faced backlash for releasing expensive, gameplay-affecting DLC packs for Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced on launch day, despite the game being priced at $70. The company stated that the Standard Edition is a complete experience and the additional packs are optional extras. The remake, which includes content from the original 2013 title, has reportedly sold over 300,000 copies on Steam.
PS Plus Essential July 2026 Monthly Free Games Rolling Out Now
Sony has begun rolling out the PlayStation Plus Essential free games for July 2026, including Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, For the King II, and CrossCode for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. This announcement comes amidst backlash over Sony's decision to end disc production for PlayStation 5 games and speculation about upcoming price increases for the PlayStation Plus subscription service.
"This is all about control" - industry experts speak on Sony's move away from discs, and what this means for the PlayStation 6 and the cost of games
Sony has announced it will cease production of physical game discs in January 2028, a move industry experts believe signals a disc-less PlayStation 6 likely launching in 2028. This decision is expected to reduce console manufacturing costs and shift the market further towards digital distribution, impacting game pricing and consumer ownership. While some see it as a necessary evolution, concerns remain about preservation and the second-hand market.
Games Inbox: Why is Sony going digital-only with the PS5?
Readers express concern over Sony Interactive Entertainment's decision to transition the PlayStation 5 to digital-only by January 2028, fearing the loss of physical media, resale value, and the impact on businesses like CeX. The move is seen as a step towards a future where consumers 'own nothing,' with some readers vowing to switch to Xbox or focus on retro gaming.
Consoles continue their trend of just becoming worst PCs
The article argues that modern consoles like PlayStation and Xbox are becoming inferior versions of PCs, losing their unique advantages. Factors like the shift to digital-only, rising prices, and the diminishing value of exclusives are making PCs a more compelling and flexible gaming platform.
Sony announces it is ending physical disc production for new games come 2028
Sony has announced that it will cease physical disc production for new PlayStation games starting January 1, 2028. This shift to digital-only releases for new titles on PlayStation 5 and future consoles aims to reduce costs and align with market trends. The decision impacts the ownership model for consumers and raises concerns about potential price markups in digital storefronts.
Games Inbox: Will the PS6 really cost £1,000?
Readers discuss concerns about the potential high price of the PlayStation 6, with some predicting it could exceed £1,000. The discussion touches on the rising costs of game development, the shift towards digital-only releases, and whether next-generation consoles offer enough compelling new features to justify such an expense.
Why I’m glad GTA 6 is killing physical media for gaming - Reader's Feature
This reader's feature argues that the end of physical media for games, exemplified by Grand Theft Auto 6's digital-only release, is a positive development. The author highlights environmental benefits, potential cost savings through digital distribution, and improved accessibility for smaller developers, while also addressing common concerns about digital ownership and game sharing.
After GTA 6's controversial code-in-a-box decision, Marvel's Wolverine devs confirm the PS5 game comes with a…
Insomniac Games has confirmed that the physical edition of Marvel's Wolverine for PlayStation 5 will include a disc, addressing concerns raised by the controversial 'code-in-a-box' decision for Grand Theft Auto 6. The studio also indicated that Marvel's Wolverine will retail for $69.99, with a Deluxe Edition available for $79.99.
Xbox Series S Has Gone From No-Brainer To No Thank You
The Xbox Series S, once a compelling budget option for current-gen gaming and Game Pass, has lost its appeal due to significant price increases for both the console and the subscription service. Coupled with technical limitations that have impacted game development, such as the exclusion of local co-op in Baldur's Gate 3, the Series S is no longer considered an affordable or clear choice for consumers.
Evening Reading - June 24, 2026
Shacknews presents its Evening Reading for June 24, 2026, featuring a review of Star Fox, an analysis of Destiny 2's decline, and details on Grand Theft Auto 6's pricing and lack of physical discs. The roundup also includes news on John Carmack's thoughts on Quake, a report of DayZ 2 development, and Micron's financial results.
Games Inbox: Will you boycott GTA 6 for being digital-only?
Readers discuss the implications of Grand Theft Auto 6 being digital-only at launch, with some considering a boycott to protest the lack of physical copies and high price. The discussion also touches on the evolution of game remakes, the enduring appeal of classic franchises like Star Fox and Sonic, and the anniversary of Quake.
GTA 6 fans 'devastated' there's no disc as Rockstar confirms no online at launch
Rockstar Games has confirmed Grand Theft Auto 6 will launch on November 19, 2026, with standard and ultimate editions priced at $79.99 and $99.99 respectively. Both editions will not include a physical disc, instead providing a download code, which has caused significant backlash from fans concerned about digital distribution and pricing. The game will initially be a single-player experience, with no online component available at launch.
Waiting for GTA 6's PC release might save you dropping an extra $20 for access to some special shops, based on my wading through GTA 5's editions soup
This article speculates on whether PC players will receive Grand Theft Auto 6's ultimate edition bonuses, such as access to special shops, for free at launch, drawing parallels with Grand Theft Auto 5's various editions. It suggests that Rockstar Games might bundle these extras to encourage PC players to purchase the game again, potentially saving them from paying extra for in-game content.
Grand Theft Auto 6 Trailer 3 Could Drop Soon – Here’s Why
Speculation is mounting that a third trailer for Grand Theft Auto 6 could be released on June 25th, coinciding with the pre-order launch date. This theory is fueled by a cryptic comment from YouTube's official channel and historical marketing patterns from Rockstar Games, similar to Red Dead Redemption 2's release cycle. The article also touches on recent pricing details and industry rumors of layoffs.
Games Inbox: Is the Valve Steam Machine worth it?
Readers discuss the value proposition of Valve's Steam Machine, with many finding its price point too high compared to a custom PC or even a PlayStation 5. Other topics include potential pricing for Grand Theft Auto 6, the surprising early planning of God of War's Laufey, and concerns about the use of AI in game development.
The latest indie mega-sensation is Meccha Chameleon, an artsy hide-and-seek game, which has sold an astronomical amount in only two weeks
The indie hide-and-seek game Meccha Chameleon has achieved over 7 million copies sold in less than two weeks since its release. The game, developed by solo developer Lemelion, features players disguising themselves with paint tools and has gained popularity through word-of-mouth and influencers. A Japan-themed map is set to be added soon, and the game's low price point of £5.29 is highlighted as a contrast to rising triple-A game costs.
Games Inbox: Are the original Halo games still worth playing?
Readers discuss the enduring appeal of older Halo titles, with one praising Halo 3's timeless design and soundtrack. Another reader reflects on the evolution of gaming technology and online infrastructure since the original Xbox era. Concerns are also raised about the current state of game pricing and the potential impact of consumer reluctance to buy games at full price.
Xbox's Chief Strategy Officer says ads can offer "more affordable alternatives," but believes in-game interruptions "would be bad"
Xbox Chief Strategy Officer Matthew Ball clarified comments regarding the potential for ad-supported, more affordable alternatives to services like Xbox Game Pass. He emphasized that any discussion of ads was in the context of offering lower-cost options alongside existing ad-free experiences, similar to streaming services, and explicitly stated that in-game advertisements interrupting gameplay would be a negative development.
