Microsoft begins testing competitive deals for digital content (update)

Microsoft has began testing competitive pricing for digital content on the Xbox One, according to studio manager Mike Ybarra.

"Lot of people asked for better deals on our digital marketplace, so we're testing some...," Ybarra tweeted. "..and 2/18 through 2/24 you can get Ryse: Son of Rome off digital marketplace for $39.99! Special deal on add ons starts 2/25."

"That's far better than the used price at GameStop and others! Go digital!" he later tweeted.

Xbox's Larry Hryb stated on Reddit last month Microsoft will investigate competitive pricing for digital content on Xbox platforms. He wrote at the time that lower costs for downloadable titles is on Microsoft's agenda and that Xbox digital pricing policy could change.

Xbox Games Store titles are equal in price to purchasing physical copies at retail; however, the company increased the prices of digital Xbox One exclusives by £5 in December in the U.K. It is not clear if the current deals tested out are part Microsoft's plan to offer fixed competitive costs of digital versions of Xbox games. Polygon has reached out to Microsoft for additional information.

Update: "We believe in digital distribution, and are proud to give gamers a variety of ways to purchase and experience their games," a Microsoft spokesperson told Polygon. "We'll continue to strike a balance between digital distribution and its benefits, while supporting physical games purchase through our retail partners."