Former PlayStation Executive Shuhei Yoshida Warns of Inevitable Rise in Game Prices

In a recent interview, former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida delved into the ongoing discussion surrounding the increase in game prices, shedding light on the challenging balance between inflation and the rising costs of game development.

Criticism has been directed at Nintendo for the higher pricing of its Switch 2 games, notably with the launch title Mario Kart World priced at £75/$80, which Nintendo has attributed to “variable pricing”. On the other hand, Microsoft has announced that some new first-party Xbox games will be priced at $80 starting later this year. Reports have also hinted at the possibility of the upcoming GTA 6 being priced at £80/$100.

Yoshida, speaking to the French outlet PlayStation Inside, shared his perspective on the current landscape. “I think it was inevitable, although perhaps not led by Nintendo, that game prices would eventually rise,” he remarked. “We are living in a time where inflation is a real and significant factor, yet there is an expectation for games to be increasingly ambitious and hence more costly to develop, all while maintaining the same price point. It’s an impossible equation.”

Yoshida pinpointed production costs as the core issue, emphasizing that modern games are more technologically complex than ever before. He suggested that the industry’s shift towards remasters and remakes serves as a way to diversify revenue streams, providing a more straightforward path to generating profits that can support the creation of new games.

Regarding the potential pricing of GTA 6, Yoshida acknowledged the challenges faced by developers. He highlighted the role of subscription platforms and games as a service in generating revenue that can be reinvested in AAA titles. Yoshida also pointed to the success of smaller studios, such as the French studio Sandfall Interactive and their game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, as a model for creating visually impressive games with tighter teams and budgets.

Yoshida further explored the role of AI in game development, noting its potential to enhance gameplay creatively. He stressed the importance of viewing AI as a tool to support human artists rather than replace them entirely. By leveraging generative AI to streamline processes and reduce production costs, smaller studios could benefit without compromising the artistic quality of their games.

Looking ahead, Yoshida expressed his anticipation for Duskbloods from FromSoftware on the upcoming Switch 2 console, citing the studio’s reputation for innovative game design following their work on Elden Ring.

Since departing from PlayStation last year, Yoshida has been actively sharing his insights on the video game industry, offering perspectives on various aspects of game development and the evolving landscape of gaming.