Next Thursday, November 12, Sony will finally launch its next-generation console, the PlayStation 5. Thanks to retailers bungling the PS5 pre-order date, many fans who want one of the consoles on day one will be missing out, but perhaps planned on camping outside one of their local stores to try to get their hands on the console. However, anyone hoping to do so should know that their efforts will likely be in vain.

Sony has confirmed that anyone who didn't pre-order the PlayStation can indeed still get one on launch day, but they will have to order the console through their local retailer's online stores. No one will be able to just walk into a Best Buy, Target, Walmart, or any other retailer and walk out with a PS5 console, they will only be available online. While some may find this frustrating, it is an effort on Sony's part to keep people safe amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

RELATED: PS5 Will Not Natively Support 1440p

On one hand, this should go a long way in keeping people safe on the PS5's launch day, and should help ensure that stores don't become overcrowded with people trying to get the console. On the other hand, it's easy to see how this may upset some people who were counting on camping out as their last resort to get a PS5 console. The mad rush to get online to purchase a PS5 may also result in some technical issues, like website crashes, which could lead to even more consumer frustration come launch day.

ps5 ssd storage space size

Even if everything works as intended, though, some people who really want a PS5 this year will simply not be able to get one. Sony has already warned that the PS5 will be in short supply this year, especially with the world still grappling with the coronavirus. Throw scalpers into the mix and it's easy to see how it's going to be very difficult for consumers to get their PlayStation 5 consoles this holiday season.

Eventually, PS5 supply will normalize and it should no longer be an issue for consumers to casually walk into a store and walk out with their console. But like with all new video game console launches, things will likely be a little chaotic for the first few months on sale. Those who miss out can check in with their local retailers regularly so they can try to get a PS5 the next time a shipment comes in.

It seems as though the next PS5 shipment will likely be around Black Friday this year, so a couple of weeks after the console launches on November 12. While other retailers have yet to confirm their plans, Best Buy has said that both the PS5 and Xbox Series X will be in stock on Black Friday, November 27.

MORE: PS5 Shopping Check List for November 2020

Source: PlayStation Blog