Sony has recently done well to restock a variety of stores with its PS5 consoles and this week is no different as GameStop had yet another restock of the console that sadly sold out in a flash. Many previous GameStop restocks of the console took place in-store, whereas this time around the console was only available online.
The catch was that gamers were not able to buy the console by itself, they instead had to buy the PS5 as part of a bundle. This move was likely made to dissuade scalpers, as it becomes far more difficult to make a profit off of the accessories the bundle comes with. Unfortunately, however, all of the consoles were still snatched up in a matter of minutes. The bundle GameStop sold today included the PS5 Digital Edition, an extra DualSense controller, a charging station, a $100 GameStop gift card, a $100 PlayStation Store card, and a 12-month subscription to PlayStation Plus.
The bundle on offer today came to $700 which is rather steep but this price seemingly didn't dissuade many consumers from purchasing the console. GameStop attempted to make the PS5 restock more exclusive by only offering it to PowerUp Rewards Pro members but sadly this tactic was unsuccessful. A PowerUp Rewards Pro membership seems to be the only way one will be able to buy a console from the retailer in future. A membershi[ costs $14.99 per year and generally gives members early access to next-gen consoles as well as some other benefits.
While GameStop has offered many PS5 restocks recently, those looking to purchase the console should keep their eyes on other retailers as well. At the beginning of the month, Walmart offered two PS5 restocks in one week, which means it would most likely be a good idea for the consumers who were unable to secure a console today to keep an eye on Walmart's social media. It may also be a good idea to invest in a Walmart+ membership as members often get early access to restocks.
Another retailer that has also offered many PS5 restocks is Target. At the beginning of December, the retailer allowed consumers to purchase a console online and then made them pick up their order at a Target store. This too was an effective way to weed out scalpers and helped another batch of customers take home a next-gen console. The best option for anyone desperate to get a PS5 is to join the subscription services of the above-mentioned retailers. These subscriptions are far cheaper than scalper prices and greatly increase one's chances of securing a console.