Sony's highly anticipated PlayStation 5 Pro launch has been overshadowed by scalpers exploiting the limited supply and some early buyers experiencing regret over their purchase decisions.
The tech giant recently announced two new console variants - the standard PS5 Pro priced at $700 and a limited 30th Anniversary Edition at $1,000. However, the excitement surrounding these powerful new gaming machines has been dampened by several factors:
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| A sleek representation of the modern PlayStation 5 console, highlighting its innovative design as Sony launches the PS5 Pro |
Scalpers Strike Again
- eBay listings show PS5 Pro consoles marked up 43% to around $1,000
- Limited Edition 30th Anniversary models listed for $3,000-$12,300, a 200-1100% markup
- Only 12,300 units of the Limited Edition being produced globally
This mirrors issues seen during the original PS5 launch in 2020, despite Sony's efforts to limit pre-orders to one per customer.
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| Scalpers list PS5 Pro and 30th Anniversary consoles at inflated prices, reflecting ongoing supply issues |
Buyer's Remorse Sets In
Some early adopters are already questioning their decision to pre-order:
- Concerns about how much use the PS5 Pro will get compared to high-end gaming PCs
- Difficulty justifying the $699/£699 price tag
- Uncertainty about the real-world benefits over the standard PS5
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| The enhanced graphics of Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart on PS5 Pro versus PS5 spark buyer's remorse for new owners |
Looking Ahead
While scalping remains a major issue, there is hope for those still seeking a PS5 Pro:
- Sony plans a second round of pre-orders on October 10th
- Production should be smoother without pandemic-related constraints
- Patient gamers may find better availability after the initial rush
The PS5 Pro launches on November 7th, with the 30th Anniversary Edition following on November 21st. As the release date approaches, it remains to be seen whether Sony can meet demand and deliver on the promise of enhanced gaming experiences.