Microsoft's Quiet Price Hike: Xbox Gift Cards Now Cost More for Rewards Members
Microsoft has quietly raised the price of Xbox gift cards for its Rewards program members, leaving many users surprised and frustrated. This move comes as a follow-up to last year's decision to remove the option to use Rewards points directly for Xbox Game Pass subscriptions.
The price hike has been noticed across various regions, with users reporting significant increases in the number of points required for gift cards. For instance, a £25 gift card, which previously required around 29,445 points, now demands 30,995 points. This change has sparked concern among Xbox enthusiasts, especially those eagerly awaiting the release of highly anticipated games like Promise Mascot Agency.
The price adjustments vary by region, adding complexity to the situation. In the US and the UK, the price increase is approximately 5.3%. A $10 Xbox gift card, which previously cost 9,500 points with a level 2 discount, now requires 10,000 points. Similarly, a £10 gift card, previously priced at 11,780 points, now costs 12,400 points.
The lack of communication from the Microsoft Rewards team is a major point of contention. Users expected a clear announcement regarding the price increase, but Microsoft chose to implement it quietly, hoping it would go unnoticed. This approach has left many feeling betrayed, especially those who rely on the Rewards program for their gaming needs.
The article invites readers to share their experiences and opinions in the comments section. It also mentions a new Game Pass Quest that some users received at the start of the month, adding an element of surprise to the situation. The author, Sean Carey, is an Xbox enthusiast who enjoys exploring the best RPGs, racing games, and first-person shooters available on Xbox Game Pass.
For those interested in staying updated, the website TrueAchievements offers achievement guides and data analysis for Xbox games. Readers can add it as a preferred source on Google News to ensure they receive the latest Xbox news in their feed.
