Much like their add-on hard drives, Microsoft’s upcoming line of licensed Xbox 360 flash memory is no exception when it comes to sticker shock.

Due out next month to coincide with the April 6 launch of the USB mass storage dashboard update, GameStop has priced the 8GB and 16GB variants of these drives at $39.99 and $69.90 respectively. As a bonus, each drive is said to include one month free of Xbox Live Gold. Hardly makes up for the near $30 premium, but hey, it’s a nice gesture.

To be clear, there is no real advantage to picking up these licensed drives, other than the fact that they come pre-formatted for use with the Xbox 360. For those that want to avoid footing the premium, simply pick up a standard USB flash drive that carries a capacity of at least 1GB per Microsoft’s requirements and you’ll be all set.

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