Mexico may have just proposed the worst way to raise video game prices globally: an 8% tax on violent titles. If other nations follow this approach, video game prices could surge everywhere, so caution is needed.

The price of video games is always a sensitive topic among players. While publishers would certainly like to raise prices, doing so risks a storm of backlash. We saw this with the €90 price tag on Mario Kart World. Any tax reform could influence game pricing directly, which is why monitoring government proposals is crucial.

Mexico Wants to Tax Violent Games

The Mexican government and Ministry of Finance have unveiled the 2026 Economic Package, which introduces an 8% tax on video games deemed “violent.” This surcharge would apply to both physical and digital editions. President Claudia Sheinbaum argues that the goal is to reduce consumption of these games, which she claims can harm physical and mental health and even pose security risks.

The plan also targets sugary drinks and tobacco, but video games are the most controversial inclusion. According to El Economista, the official document cites “studies linking violent video games to higher aggression levels in adolescents.” The government expects the measure to raise around 183 million pesos (over €8 million) for healthcare, though approval by Mexico’s Senate and Chamber of Deputies is still pending.

Sheinbaum stated: “It is proposed to establish a special 8% ad valorem tax on violent digital services. The goal is not prohibition, but rather to discourage consumption. Video games involve security issues. Parents must pay attention to the types of games being played online.”

Which Games Would Be Hit?

If passed, series like Call of Duty, Battlefield, Mortal Kombat, and DOOM would all face higher prices in Mexico. It remains unclear whether microtransactions or subscriptions would also be taxed. Players fear that if other countries follow Mexico’s lead, price increases could spread worldwide.

Just weeks ago, Mexico’s president even blamed video games for crime rates: “These are games about killing someone. What’s that? Better to create other forms of entertainment, like music.” Similarly, former president AMLO criticized games in 2021, claiming they promote racism and violence among minors.

Violent Games Do Not Cause Crime

The claim that violent games drive crime has been widely debunked. If it were true, every Call of Duty or GTA release would coincide with crime spikes globally. In reality, age ratings exist to regulate access. Critics say Sheinbaum’s proposal is less about protecting public health and more about raising revenue, while scapegoating games to distract from Mexico’s real crime issues.

Source: 3djuegos