Xbox Live Subscriptions Getting 20% Price Hike

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As many of our readers are probably aware, the fact that Xbox Live is a paid service has been contentious among the gaming world. Some say that it should be free. Others say that it’s a small price to pay for the best console gaming experience. Most seem to begrudgingly pay it and go on with their day. Microsoft isn’t helping the debate any though – the tech giant has just raised the prices of the Xbox Live Gold membership across the board in some Western countries. Yikes!

The changes only are taking place in the US, UK, Canada and Mexico. Note that Japan, where Microsoft can’t give away an Xbox 360, is exempt from these price hikes. But, here’s what the new prices will look like:

American users are still getting some benefit from going with the 12-month and 3-month plans, but at the end of the day – most people still pay for the 12-month plan and that is still going up by $10. Overall, it’s being reported as a 20%.

Microsoft likes to justify the cost of Xbox Live by touting all the things it provides for the player – like Netflix and Facebook connectivity, etc. etc. Though, with the competing PlayStation 3 offering free online multiplayer, it’s hard to see many gamers accepting this Microsoft price hike lightly.

What do you think about the new Xbox Live prices? Sound off in our comments section.