Sony Introduces Lottery System for PS5 Pro Sales in Japan
Company Mandates 60 Hours of Gameplay, Uses Lottery to Combat Chip Scarcity
The scarcity of DRAM memory has led to an abrupt drop in the production of the PS5 Pro, Sony's most powerful console. To prevent the limited available units from falling into the hands of resellers, Sony Interactive Entertainment has launched a lottery system in Japan.
How Sony's Lottery Works
Consumers wishing to purchase the PS5 Pro must register by October 7, 2026. Registration is only accepted for those who, between September 27, 2024, and September 27, 2026, have accumulated at least 60 hours of gameplay on either PS4 or PS5.
Selected names from the lottery will be notified starting October 26. Those chosen will have until November 2 to complete the purchase at the suggested retail price. If the purchase is not finalized, the unit will be reallocated in a subsequent draw.
Reason for the Measure: DRAM Shortage
Sony relies on three suppliers – Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron – for the memory that powers the PS5 Pro. The surging demand for DRAM in artificial intelligence data centers has led to a significant portion of units being sold to that sector, thereby reducing the number of chips available for console production.
With fewer chips, the company had to cut production of its most advanced model and seek alternatives to ensure that players who genuinely use the console gain access, rather than seeing it resold at inflated prices.
Additional Requirements for Buyers
Beyond the gameplay time requirement, Sony mandates that interested parties possess a Japanese PlayStation Network (PSN) account. This condition aims to ensure that inventory is allocated to local players, thereby reducing the likelihood of tourists or resellers purchasing in bulk.
Impact on the Brazilian Market
Although the measure has only been announced for Japan, the situation reflects a global issue: component scarcity is impacting console supply worldwide, including in Brazil. While Sony has not confirmed the adoption of a similar system in other countries, this initiative suggests the company is willing to experiment with new mechanisms to protect consumers.
Next Steps
Interested consumers should pay close attention to the registration schedule and ensure they meet the 60-hour gameplay requirement. Sony has not yet disclosed whether the lottery will be repeated in future cycles or if it will be extended to other markets.
With information from Canaltech, Terra, Tá Pipocando.
Source: Canaltech, Terra, Tá Pipocando