Ever since the launch of the PlayStation 5 several weeks ago, the next-generation console has been flying off shelves faster than Sony can produce it. Of course, given that the PS5 will transition players to the next-generation of console gaming, its commercial success is hardly surprising. However, with so many players unable to secure one at launch, many are questioning whether scalpers had any great impact on the console's stocks.
As it turns out, it appears that several scalpers, some of them part of larger groups, were able to stockpile consoles and sell them to players at a higher price. One particular scalping group called CrepChiefNotify, which is based in the UK, even bragged about their PS5 stocks, which are reportedly in the thousands, on social media. According to the group's post on Twitter, it has secured over 2,500 consoles as of November 20 and even proclaimed that "reselling isn't going away."
Of course, this post angered many players around the world who have been tirelessly looking to purchase a PS5 from retail. One user expressed their disappointment saying, "Scalpers are scum, but they wouldn't exist without people being all too willing to pay their marked-up prices on in-demand goods." Most of the post's comments reflected the same sentiment, with some calling to unite all players to refrain from buying the PS5 from scalpers to rob them out of profits that they expect to make by reselling the PS5 at a much higher price.
It appears that inventory of the PS5 are still low not only in North America but also in Europe and Asia, where PlayStation fans are facing similar problems. In a statement released by Jim Ryan, the President and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, it has been revealed that "absolutely everything is sold." Of course, this may be disappointing to most players who could not secure a PS5 during its launch in select territories.
However, players in the US still has another chance to grab the PS5 this year, given that several retailers such as Walmart, Best Buy, and GameStop have all confirmed that they will be offering the PS5 on Black Friday. Players should note that all the aforementioned retailers will only offer the console online, given that the PS5 won't arrive in physical stores until 2021. At the moment, it is unknown how much stock of the console will be available on Black Friday, but players should expect that it will be minimal.
The PS5 is available now in select countries.