Microsoft has reversed its decision to price The Outer Worlds 2 at USD79.99 (approximately RM329). Instead, the game will now launch at the previous standard of USD69.99 (around RM288) beginning 23 July 2025.

More discount for video games

The pricing change comes after backlash over Microsoft's earlier announcement to raise the cost of upcoming AAA titles. The original price hike aligned with Nintendo's recent move to price some Switch 2 games at USD80.

Microsoft cited rising development costs as the reason but faced resistance from gamers and industry observers. The company has since confirmed that it will maintain the USD69.99 rate for its full-priced holiday releases.

The price reduction begins with The Outer Worlds 2, scheduled for release on 29 October 2025 across Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. Microsoft has also confirmed that customers who pre-ordered the game at the higher price will receive refunds.

Obsidian Entertainment, the game's developer, humorously acknowledged the rollback on social media, referencing the in-game universe while announcing the price change.

In a statement to gaming media, Microsoft reaffirmed its focus on delivering expansive game worlds while staying aligned with market expectations.

Notably, the revised pricing will apply not only to The Outer Worlds 2 but also to other upcoming first-party titles, including Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.

Tech Specs: The Outer Worlds 2

Here is a summary of confirmed details for the upcoming title:

• Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PC
• Release Date: 29 October 2025
• Updated Pricing: USD69.99 (approx. RM288)
• Refund Policy: Refunds available for earlier pre-orders made at USD79.99 (approx. RM329)

What is going on?

Microsoft's reversal shows that community feedback still carries weight in shaping pricing strategies. The company’s attempt to push the price boundary was quickly met with resistance, suggesting that the gaming community is not ready to accept USD80 (RM329) as the new normal.

This development may also influence how Sony and Nintendo proceed with their pricing strategies. Gamers in Malaysia and beyond can see this as a reminder that voicing consumer concerns can make a difference.

This is true especially with digital pre-orders and regional pricing increasingly under scrutiny. Do you think RM288 should remain the ceiling for AAA games in Malaysia, or are higher prices inevitable? Let us know your thoughts.

Stay tuned to TechNave.com for more updates.