EA Confirms It Will Not Raise Game Prices to $80—For Now
In a time when rising production costs and inflation are pushing AAA game prices upward, Electronic Arts (EA) is opting for stability. The gaming giant recently confirmed it will maintain its current $70 pricing model—at least through the end of its fiscal year in March 2026.
The statement came during EA’s latest earnings call, where CEO Andrew Wilson was directly asked about the company’s position on the growing trend of raising standard game prices to $80. His response was clear: EA has no immediate plans to follow suit.
“We don’t currently have any intention to change our pricing model,” Wilson said. “EA has always offered a diverse range of pricing options—from free-to-play to premium editions—to serve players across different needs and budgets.”
Wilson emphasized that EA’s strategy focuses on value over cost, aiming to deliver compelling content at fair prices. This means that flagship titles like Battlefield 6, as well as entries in the FIFA and Madden NFL franchises under EA Sports, will remain at $70 throughout 2025.
Holding the Line While Others Shift
EA’s stance stands in contrast to moves made—or at least attempted—by other major publishers. Nintendo recently caused a stir by listing Mario Kart World for the upcoming Switch 2 at a hefty $80, sparking debate over whether $80 is becoming the new baseline for AAA titles.
Microsoft, too, previously floated the idea of raising prices for upcoming releases, starting with The Outer Worlds 2. Although the company later backtracked on that announcement, the intention raised eyebrows and concerns among gamers and analysts alike.
Amid this price fluctuation, EA, 2K, and Gearbox have become notable outliers. Gearbox recently confirmed that Borderlands 4 will retail at $70, aligning with EA’s pricing model. Meanwhile, European and international developers—referred to playfully in insider circles as “West Ham” and “Napoli”—remain cautious, avoiding price increases in the face of global economic uncertainty.
Why EA’s Decision Matters
AAA development costs are undeniably rising, and publishers are grappling with how to balance profitability with player accessibility. EA’s decision to maintain a stable price is not just a business move—it’s a signal of trust-building with its audience.
This consistency may prove especially important in 2025, as the industry braces for a year packed with major releases and increasingly competitive subscription services. With players already facing hardware costs, DLCs, and in-game purchases, a steady price tag can feel like a breath of fresh air.
Moreover, EA’s pricing flexibility—offering free-to-play titles like Apex Legends alongside premium console and PC games—gives it room to adapt without alienating its base. By refusing to raise prices prematurely, EA keeps players engaged without pressuring them financially.
Looking Ahead
Though EA’s current pricing stance is only confirmed through the end of its fiscal year, the move may shape wider industry expectations, especially if titles like Battlefield 6 perform strongly without the need for a higher price tag.
Still, the long-term question remains: Can the $70 standard hold if development budgets continue to balloon? Or will the $80 wave eventually catch up to EA too?
For now, gamers can breathe easy. EA’s clearest message is this: No extra cost for your favorite titles—at least not this year.