Sony Fighting PS5 Pro Scalpers in Japan with 60 Hour Gameplay Requirement
Sony has implemented a gameplay-based eligibility requirement to combat scalping of the PS5 Pro console in Japan. The company is restricting sales of the premium console to players who have accumulated at least 60 hours of gameplay on their PlayStation account within the past two years.
Gamers can apply for a purchase ticket through the Sony Store to buy the PS5 Pro, priced at ¥137,980 (approximately $877). This approach aims to ensure the high-end hardware reaches genuine players rather than resellers attempting to profit from the device’s limited supply and strong demand.
By establishing a gameplay verification threshold, Sony is attempting to filter out speculative purchases and scalping activity that has historically plagued major console releases. The 60-hour requirement over two years represents a meaningful engagement benchmark that discourages casual or automated resale attempts while still accommodating players with demonstrated, sustained interest in PlayStation gaming.
This region-specific measure reflects Sony’s effort to address distribution challenges unique to the Japanese market. The ticket-based application system combined with the gameplay verification requirement creates a multi-layered approach that prioritizes authentic consumers over opportunistic scalpers.