All launch-day sales of the PS5 will be online only, Sony has announced.
Yes, you can put that one-person tent away, because you won’t be able to queue up for a day one PS5 console this month. According to a blog post by senior director of SIE Content Communications, Sid Shuman, the decision was taken based on safety concerns regarding the ongoing coronavirus pandemic
© Sony
“In the interest of keeping our gamers, retailers, and staff safe amidst COVID-19,” the post reads, “today we are confirming that all day-of launch sales will be conducted through the online stores of our retail partners.”
“No units will be available in-store for purchase on launch day (November 12 or November 19, depending on your region) – please don’t plan on camping out or lining up at your local retailer on launch day in hopes of finding a PS5 console for purchase. Be safe, stay home, and place your order online.
“Gamers who have pre-ordered for pick-up at their local retailer should still be able to do so at their designated appointment time, under the retailer’s safety protocols. Please confirm the details with your local retailer.
“A special thank you to our entire community for your continued support this year. Here’s to the next generation of gaming!”
The decision follows Sony’s previous announcement that the PlayStation 5 would not be sold in physical stores in Japan. The global approach doesn’t rule out units shipping to stores eventually, but for the launch at least you’ll need to head online. If you've preorderd a console to collect, be sure to get in touch with the supplier soon so that you can confirm when you'll be able to collect your PS5.
The PlayStation 5 launches November 12 in the United States, and November 19 in the UK and Europe.
