This week on The Expansion Pass, we're tackling one of the biggest questions facing the gaming industry: is gaming becoming too expensive?Microsoft has announced significant Xbox console price increases, Grand Theft Auto VI is launching at $80, and Nintendo's Switch 2 continues to post impressive early sales despite rising hardware costs. We discuss what these changes mean for players, whether premium pricing is becoming the new normal, and how publishers are adapting to an increasingly expensive market.We also share our impressions of Star Fox and 007 First Light, discuss the surprising value proposition of the Steam Machine, examine Bungie's latest layoffs and Marathon's uncertain future, and look at why Nintendo's first-party strategy continues to drive hardware sales.In this episode:Xbox console price increases explainedGTA VI's $80 launch priceSwitch 2 sales momentumSteam Machine pricing reactionsStar Fox review impressions007 First Light impressionsBungie layoffs & MarathonNintendo's first-party strategyWhat we've been playingIf you enjoy thoughtful gaming discussions without the console war noise, subscribe to The Expansion Pass on your favorite podcast platform and join us live each week on YouTube.