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Science & Technology · 6 Intermediate · July 6, 2026

Video Game Consoles Cost More Money Now

Video Game Consoles Cost More Money Now
Photo: Polina Tankilevitch via Pexels

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Vocabulary

console /ˈkɑːnsoʊl/ noun
a machine you connect to a television to play video games
My son wants an Xbox console for his birthday.
artificial intelligence /ɑːrˈtɪfɪʃl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ noun
computer technology that can learn and make decisions like a person
Artificial intelligence helps companies design better products faster.
price increase /praɪs ɪnˈkris/ noun
when something costs more money than it did before
The price increase made the video game more expensive.
portable /ˈpɔːrtəbl/ adjective
small and light enough to carry and use anywhere
The Nintendo Switch is portable, so you can play games on the bus.
production /prəˈdʌkʃn/ noun
the process of making or manufacturing something
Production costs for new technology are very high.
alternative /ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪv/ noun
a different choice or option
If the price is too high, customers can choose an alternative product.

Article

Popular video game companies are raising the prices of their products. Xbox consoles, Nintendo's new Switch 2, and Valve's Steam Deck all cost more than before. The companies say artificial intelligence is one reason for these price increases.

Why Are Prices Going Up?

Making modern gaming devices is expensive. Companies need to use advanced technology and better computer chips. Artificial intelligence helps companies design and build these products, but it requires a lot of money and resources. Higher production costs mean higher prices for customers.

What Are These Devices?

Xbox is a gaming console made by Microsoft. Nintendo's Switch 2 is a portable gaming device. Valve's Steam Deck is a handheld computer for playing PC games. These products are popular with gamers around the world, so many people notice when prices change.

How Much More Do They Cost?

The exact price increases vary by product and country. Some devices increased by fifty dollars or more. This is significant money for many customers. Gamers are unhappy about spending extra money on the same type of products.

What Do Customers Think?

Many people think the prices are too high now. Some gamers decide to wait before buying. Others choose cheaper alternatives or older models. Companies must balance making profits with keeping customers satisfied and willing to buy their products.

Discussion Questions

  1. Have you ever bought a gaming device or console? What was your experience?
  2. Do you think companies should blame artificial intelligence for price increases? Why or why not?
  3. Would you pay more money for a product with better technology, or do you prefer lower prices?
  4. What other products have become more expensive recently in your country?
  5. If prices keep rising, what might customers do instead of buying new gaming devices?

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