Gaming has long struggled with the issue of scalpers, but Japan may have found an effective way to ensure fans can purchase the PS5 Pro.
Getting the latest gaming console and diving into a marathon gaming session is a delight for many. However, in recent years, this has become significantly more challenging for some gamers.
All thanks to the profit-driven individuals known as scalpers.
Scalpers purchase new products in large quantities to create artificial scarcity, compelling buyers to turn to them at inflated prices.
This phenomenon was seen globally with the launch of the PS5 in 2020.
Many fans had to wait patiently for their chance to purchase the console, while others reluctantly paid nearly double to obtain the latest generation device.
It appears that Sony’s Japanese branch is determined to prevent this situation from recurring.
For the release of the PS5 Pro, a more advanced version of the console, those eager to buy one will need to meet certain criteria.
To pre-order the console, which is set for release on November 7, customers must demonstrate that they are genuine gamers.
They need to have logged at least 30 hours of gameplay on either the PS4 or PS5 before they can place a pre-order. This requirement poses a significant hurdle for scalpers who aren’t actually interested in gaming but are merely seeking quick profits.
Currently, this policy applies only to the 30th Anniversary themed edition of the PS5 Pro, a version expected to be highly popular due to its nostalgic design reminiscent of the original PlayStation.
This decision has been met with widespread approval on social media, where gamers express frustration with scalpers.
“I was thinking about this the other day. Sounds like a smart idea,” one user noted, while another remarked: “I love it. Scalpers are terrible for the gaming community.”
“That’s actually smart. Respect the loyalty,” a third person commented.
“F**k scalpers opportunistic selfish c****. I still remember how much I suffered trying to buy ps5 cuz of them,” one exasperated fan shared.
While the initiative has been praised, some hope it will be adopted globally. Nonetheless, it’s a positive step forward, and there is hope it will have a meaningful impact.