Sega launched Sonic Frontiers in November 2022 for $59.99, but the next Sonic game may be released at a higher price point. During a recent results briefing for analysts and institutional investors regarding the fiscal year ended March 2023, Sega Sammy executives were questioned as to why unit sales pricing for the new game had gone up, and one pointed out that AAA games are now sold at $69.99. “We would like to review the prices of titles that we believe are commensurate with price increases, while also keeping an eye on market conditions,” the executive said. Sonic Frontiers, which currently has a Very Positive rating on Steam, has sold over 3.5 million copies so far, according to recent reports.
From a Sega Sammy document:
Q: Please tell us why the unit sales price of the new game is set higher in the FY2024/3 plan. Do you actually plan to increase the unit sales price? Or will the unit sales price increase due to the impact of recording of license fees and in-game revenues, etc?
A: In the global marketplace, AAA game titles for console have been sold at $59.99 for many years, but titles sold at $69.99 have appeared in the last year. We would like to review the prices of titles that we believe are commensurate with price increases, while also keeping an eye on market conditions. Also, for titles that are planned to be offered via subscription services, revenue made via contract deals are also included in sales figures, so we would like you to be aware that when these figures are divided by the number of units, there is an apparent impact on the increase in unit price.