What impact will the global increase in tariffs on game keys, PC hardware and consoles have?

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By Gaming News
11 April 2025 no comments

A fact that is certainly causing great concern for many is the introduction of new tariffs by the U.S. government. Tariffs that, as expected, will have a global impact, including on the gaming industry. Let’s analyze the situation together.

Find out if Nintendo Switch 2 will be affected by the tariffs or not!

US Tariffs: Impact on the Gaming Industry

Donald Trump’s second presidency is witnessing a new trade war with China. And certainly, one of the most discussed points is the tightening of tariffs not just for China, but for many Asian countries. With a significant impact not only on the lives of American citizens but also on the global market.

And a larger-than-ever tech market and a growing gaming industry, it seems that the new tariffs will also have a strong impact on gamers. With numerous discussions already on the rise in prices and platform costs.

 

What is the Impact of Tariffs on Gamers: PC Hardware and Consoles

The issue of new U.S. tariffs is certainly one of the most discussed topics in recent days. A topic that many analysts and experts are commenting on regarding the global impact, with a particular focus on the gaming industry.

 

Impact on PC Hardware

 

On the PC side, we have a situation that is certainly disastrous for many gamers. The crux of the issue is an increase in the price of every component, with the most affected being the supply of Graphics Cards. With a real “paper launch” from Nvidia for the RTX 5000 Blackwell series, with limited units of the 5080 and 5090 SKUs, as well as a price hike from the MSRP. While stock situation is slightly better for AMD with its RX 9070 and 9070 XT, but they too are well beyond their MSRP of $549 and $599.

 

Impact on Consoles

 

The issue remains just as critical on the console side, especially following the recent announcement of Nintendo Switch 2. In fact, to avoid a potential increase in costs, Nintendo has moved production of the new console to Vietnam. Hit hard by a 46% increase, with Nintendo, after ignoring public inquiries, delaying pre-orders in the USA and Canada. Expect price hikes for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S as well.

 

Potential Issue of Digital Products like CD Keys

U.S. tariffs are theoretically relevant for physical products imported into the USA. And at least in theory, digital products are not directly affected by the price hike from the new tariffs. However, the issue could expand into another area concerning the global market, namely:

  • Price Alignment Due to the Global Market: The issue of multilingual physical game copies produced in affected countries, such as Japan, could lead to a digital price increase. Excessive price disparity could create an alignment leading to an increase in digital game prices.
  • Third-Party Vendor CD Key Distribution: A small number of third-party vendors also deal with a market of “physical” copies that do not include discs but rather CD Keys. CD Keys that are often region-free, potentially leading to a price increase for certain vendors.
 

The Gaming Industry Situation and Consumer Position

In concrete terms, there are increasingly strong trends and factors that are working against consumers. Ultimately, it’s the consumers who will bear the brunt of the tariffs, as they “absorb” the cost imposed on importers. However, there is also a continuing trend among industry giants to shift the balance in their favor.

It seems that the issue of tariffs is being used as an excuse by many publishers to raise the price of games, especially digital ones. This was seen by many with the arrival of GTA 6 and its famous $100 price tag. But now, it seems that Nintendo is to blame with Switch 2. With a price increase of $10 over the $70 standard in the industry, and an additional €10 increase in Europe.

 

The  Nintendo Switch 2 Situation

 

Nintendo’s “price hikes” are certainly one of the most discussed topics. Regarding Switch 2 possibly costing more, and analysts predicting no discount for at least 5 years. Added to this are disastrous responses from Doug Spencer Bowser, COO of Nintendo America, on the situation. Vague and unhelpful responses that have raised more doubts in an already difficult situation for Nintendo, like the interview with CBC.

For Nintendo’s Switch 2, Trump tariffs could be an unbeatable final boss – CBC News

 

In Conclusion

In short, U.S. tariffs will have a global impact. An impact that, at least in theory, should not affect the digital gaming market, but factors seem to confirm a price increase. Gaming remains one of the most profitable entertainment sectors, but it seems there are further actions aimed at alienating consumers even more.

Already tired of corporate solutions and implementations that are hurting the AAA industry. On the bright side, there seems to be greater exposure and opportunities for the indie market and potential growth for the AA market. Stay updated with Allkeyshop and keep saving by comparing and finding the best prices online!

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A video game enthusiast ever since I first got my hands on a Game Boy. Over the years, I've played many different games across various genres, discovering hidden gems and niche titles along the way. I'm also passionate about technology, always up-to-date with the latest news and insight in the PC and Console market. Ready to share and bring you the latest news !

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