New Video Games Cost Me a Whole Day’s Wages — Is It Still Worth It in 2025?

🎮 New Video Games Cost Me a Whole Day’s Wages — Is It Still Worth It in 2025?

💸 Introduction: Gaming in 2025 Feels Like Paying Rent

Gaming used to be a fun escape, not a financial decision. But in 2025, a single AAA game can cost $69.99 to $79.99 at launch. For many players—especially in the United States and United Kingdom—this equals a full day’s wage before taxes. This growing expense is forcing gamers to make tough choices: Buy a new game or pay for groceries?

This article explores why gaming has become so expensive, whether the price is fair, and how you can still enjoy top-tier games without sacrificing your financial well-being.

💵 Game Prices in 2025: A Look at Popular Titles

And that’s just the base edition. Deluxe or Ultimate editions can push the price above $100.

🧮 Minimum Wage vs Gaming Costs: USA and UK

🇺🇸 United States:

• Federal minimum wage: $7.25/hour (varies by state)
• One full day’s wage (8 hours): ~$58
• Average new game: $69.99–$79.99
  🔺 That’s over a day’s work for one digital product.

🇬🇧 United Kingdom:

• Minimum wage (ages 21+): £11.44/hour
• 8-hour shift: ~£91.52
• Game cost: £69.99–£74.99
  ⚖️ While slightly more manageable, it’s still close to an entire day’s wage for many.

🔎 Why Have Game Prices Risen So Much?

The price of video games has remained stagnant at $59.99 for over a decade, until the PS5 and Xbox Series X generation triggered a jump. Here’s why:

1. Soaring Development Costs

• Studios now spend $100 million to $1 billion+ per game.
• High-end graphics, motion capture, and open-world complexity have scaled budgets to movie-like proportions.
• Example: GTA 6 is reportedly the most expensive game ever made.

2. Longer Development Time

• Games take 5–7 years to develop, meaning fewer releases and more pressure to earn revenue from each title.

3. Shift to Digital Dominance

• Over 80% of game sales are now digital.
• Yet no cost savings are passed to consumers—no packaging, no discs, but the same or higher prices.

4. Microtransactions & Live Service Models

• Even full-price games include paid add-ons, season passes, and in-game currencies.
• This model maximizes profits while offering less value upfront.

5. Inflation and Global Economic Trends

• Rising energy costs, inflation, and global instability contribute to higher base prices for all digital products.

🎮 Is the Value Still There?

When you break it down, it depends on the type of gamer you are.

Some games offer dozens or hundreds of hours, while others last 5–10 hours—leaving many to feel underwhelmed for the price.

📉 Impact on Gamers and Buying Habits

The rising cost of games is changing how people shop:

• More people wait for sales (e.g., Black Friday, Steam Summer Sale)
• Used game markets are booming again
• Game subscription services like Xbox Game Pass and PS Plus are surging in popularity
• Many turn to free-to-play games, even with ads and limited access

In a recent Reddit poll:

“I wait at least 6 months for every new title now. I’m not paying $80 for unfinished games.” – u/GamerDad2025

💡 Smart Ways to Game Without Overspending

✅ Wait 3–6 months – Most games drop in price or go on sale
✅ Use Xbox Game Pass/PS Plus Extra – Access 100+ games for a monthly fee
✅ Buy pre-owned or share accounts with family
✅ Try indie games – Often under $30, and many are award-winning titles
✅ Avoid launch-day hype – Reviews and patches usually reveal whether the game was worth the wait

Unique FAQs ❓

Q1: Are game prices likely to reach $100 in the next 5 years?

A: It’s possible. As development budgets soar and inflation continues, deluxe editions and standard pricing may push toward the $90–$100 range by 2030.

Q2: Do high game prices affect game quality?

A: Ironically, no. Many expensive games still launch broken or incomplete. Price doesn’t always reflect polish or value—it reflects hype and marketing.

Q3: Can I write off video games on my taxes?

A: In the UK and US, if you’re a streamer, reviewer, or content creator, yes—video games can qualify as a business expense if used for professional purposes.

Q4: Why do companies still charge more for digital editions?

A: Because they can. Digital marketplaces like PlayStation Store or Steam control pricing with no retailer competition, meaning no incentive to lower prices.

Q5: How can I predict if a new game will be worth full price?

A: Look at early reviews, past developer reputation, and whether there’s post-launch content. Games with vague marketing or review embargoes are often red flags.

🧾 Final Thoughts: A Price Too High?

Gaming remains one of the most powerful forms of storytelling and entertainment—but in 2025, the cost is harder to justify for everyday players. When one game costs as much as a utility bill, the fun starts to feel like a financial gamble.

Whether you’re a student, a part-time worker, or just budget-conscious, it might be time to rethink how and when you game. After all, fun shouldn’t be a luxury.