Just days after the highly anticipated launch of the PlayStation 5 Pro on November 7, the market has seen an unexpected twist: scalpers and resellers are now selling their inventory at a loss.
The Launch of the PlayStation 5 Pro: A Surprising Turn of Events
This mid-generation upgrade boasts improved storage and enhanced internal hardware compared to the standard PS5, but it has faced significant backlash regarding its pricing and the absence of an integrated disc drive.
Pricing Controversy and Market Reactions
The PlayStation 5 Pro was unveiled in September with much fanfare, but its price point has drawn considerable criticism from gamers. Notably, the separate disc drive, which retails for $79.99/£99.99, has emerged as a surprisingly lucrative item on platforms like eBay, often selling for nearly double its suggested retail price.
Scalp Pricing for the Pro Console
In stark contrast, many scalpers are struggling to sell the PS5 Pro at or above its suggested retail price of $699.99/£699.99. Reports from Video Games Chronicle (VGC) highlight that several listings on eBay are now priced below the official MSRP, indicating a lack of demand.
Understanding the Availability of the PS5 Pro
There are multiple factors at play regarding this unexpected availability of the PS5 Pro. It remains unclear if this is due to Sony ramping up production to prevent the kind of shortages that plagued the original PS5 release or whether consumer interest is simply waning.
Current trends suggest that most prominent retailers in the UK still have ample stock available shortly after the launch, pointing to a potential lack of enthusiasm among gamers.
The Scalping Phenomenon of the Anniversary Edition
In a separate trend, scalping has not diminished for the Pro’s Anniversary Edition, which ships with exclusive accessories and design inspired by the original PlayStation. Resellers are advertising these units for significantly inflated prices—often double or triple the suggested retail value.
Efforts to Combat Scalping
In October, Sony announced initiatives aimed at reducing the prevalence of scalping affecting the Anniversary Edition. However, with numerous listings still available from third-party sellers online, it’s evident that the effectiveness of these measures has been limited.
Is the PlayStation 5 Pro Worth the Investment?
If you’re contemplating whether to invest in a PlayStation 5 Pro, now might be an ideal time to consider the current market dynamics and potential price reductions.
With resellers already encountering financial losses, the opportunity to purchase at a lower price could appeal to savvy gamers.
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