Sony is introducing an anti-scalping lottery system for PS5 Pros in Japan as supply shortages persist
Sony has introduced a lottery system for PlayStation 5 Pro console purchases on its Japanese online store to combat scalping and address ongoing supply shortages. The system requires applicants to have a PlayStation Network account registered in Japan and demonstrate at least 60 hours of gameplay time accumulated between September 2024 and September 2026—time that can be split between PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles.
Applications are being accepted through October 7th, 2026. If demand exceeds available inventory, a random draw will determine which applicants receive purchase opportunities.
The 60-hour gameplay requirement functions as an anti-scalping measure, verifying that applicants are genuine gamers rather than resellers attempting to acquire consoles for profit. While dedicated players can accumulate this playtime relatively quickly, the threshold creates a meaningful barrier for scalpers lacking legitimate gaming histories on their accounts.
This approach reflects Sony’s effort to ensure PS5 Pro units reach actual consumers rather than being resold at inflated prices, a persistent problem that has plagued high-demand console launches. The lottery system represents broader industry efforts to combat scalping through eligibility requirements and restricted distribution channels in response to memory chip shortages continuing to constrain supply.