Sony has introduced special measures in Japan to prevent scalpers from snatching up the highly coveted PS5 Pro 30th Anniversary Edition. With pre-orders now open, scalpers have already started listing the console at eye-watering prices online. However, if you're in Japan, Sony has set clear conditions for those hoping to secure one of these limited-edition consoles.
The PS5 Pro, priced at US$700, is scheduled to be released on November 7. Following that, the exclusive 30th Anniversary Edition will start shipping on November 21 for US$1,000. With only 12,300 units available worldwide, it's no surprise that scalpers have taken advantage of the situation, offering pre-orders at absurd prices, ranging from US$3,000 to US$10,000, on websites like eBay.
Sony's response to the scalping problem
As fans rush to pre-order the PS5 Pro 30th Anniversary Edition, many have voiced frustration over the console's limited availability and difficulty securing a unit. The scarcity has created fertile ground for scalpers eager to resell the console at inflated prices.
In response, Sony has made a significant move in Japan to curb scalping by introducing specific conditions for those who wish to pre-order. According to the official PlayStation Japan website, anyone wanting to pre-order the PS5 30th Anniversary Edition in Japan must meet two requirements. First, they must have a PlayStation Network (PSN) account registered in Japan. Second, their account must show at least 30 hours of playtime on a PS4 or PS5 between February 2014 and September 19, 2024.
These restrictions ensure that only dedicated PlayStation users in Japan can order the limited-edition console, reducing the likelihood of scalpers purchasing them in bulk for resale.
Fans' reactions to Sony's measures
The move has sparked mixed reactions. Japanese gamers have generally expressed gratitude for the effort, feeling that the restrictions offer some protection against scalping. Many believe the measures will help genuine fans get their hands on the anniversary console, especially those who have been loyal PlayStation users for years. However, some still feel Sony could have done more to combat the issue. While this approach helps Japanese customers, those overseas who hoped for similar conditions feel disappointed.
The absence of similar pre-order conditions for international buyers has frustrated fans worldwide. Many had hoped for a global solution to the scalping problem, as the high resale prices continue to exclude everyday consumers from obtaining this special edition of the PS5 Pro.
What lies ahead
Although Sony's actions in Japan are a step in the right direction, many wonder if further steps will be taken to address scalping worldwide. With demand for the PS5 Pro 30th Anniversary Edition far outweighing supply, the scalping problem will likely continue in markets outside Japan unless more robust measures are implemented.
For now, it seems only Japanese PlayStation users who meet Sony's conditions will have the upper hand in pre-ordering this special edition console, leaving fans elsewhere hoping for better solutions in the future.
