Following a mid-year announcement of worldwide price increases for the Xbox Series X and Series S, many players are weighing their options should their current hardware fail. Driven by a persistent component crisis that has increased manufacturing costs, the price of entry for current-generation Xbox hardware has reached $799.99 / £669.99 for the disc-based Series X as of August 2026.
Quick Facts
- Current Pricing: The disc-based Xbox Series X is currently priced at $799.99 / £669.99.
- Market Outlook: Xbox expects the component supply crisis to intensify throughout 2027.
- Future Hardware: Development for the next-generation console, known as Project Helix, is scheduled to reach developers in 2027.
Player Options for Hardware Failure
For those facing a broken console, the current market dynamics have sparked debate among the player base. Potential paths include:
- Professional Repair: Exploring third-party or official repair services to address specific hardware faults, often at a fraction of the cost of a new unit.
- Second-Hand Market: Seeking out pre-owned consoles, though availability and condition may vary.
- Alternative Platforms: Utilizing existing PC setups, handheld devices like the Steam Deck, or legacy Xbox consoles.
- Cloud Gaming: Shifting to Xbox Cloud Gaming as an interim solution.
- Waiting for Project Helix: Holding off on new hardware investments until the launch of the next-generation platform.
While some players remain committed to staying on current-gen hardware to play upcoming titles like Fable and GTA 6, others are opting to leverage their existing library on older systems or wait for more information regarding the transition to the next generation of consoles.