Yes. The day has come when Microsoft realizes that it will take advantage of its superior online interface by charging its customers even more for Gold access on Xbox 360. As of November 1, Xbox Live goes up $10 for a yearly subscription that used to cost $50.

The Xbox 360's closest competitor was the PS3 with its free online multiplayer access for everyone but, unfortunately, that console's been taking its sweet time matching anything as close to the functionality of Xbox Live.

Of course, this will mostly affect those gamers who played full price for Xbox Live in the first place. Everyone else, make sure to continue stocking up on the regular $35-40 a year deals that pop up every now and then.