The global Coronavirus pandemic takes another hit as Sony reveals that its next-gen system, the PlayStation 5, will only be sold online on launch day. The undoubtedly difficult decision aims to prevent mass gatherings of people inside and outside of stores.
Seeing that reasoning, it’s hard to be angry at Sony. Quite the opposite. The company should be lauded for choosing the difficult option. That’s because the launch day is traditionally a huge occasion for new game systems.
The mere excitement of being one of the first persons to get their hands on a PlayStation 5 would usually lead to packed stores on launch day. We all know how past console launches went and saw hordes of people storming store gates.
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. – Sid Shuman, Sony
Not only that, but camping outside said stores is very common as well. But 2020 is anything but common, now is it. The entire world suffers under lockdowns and constant fears of infection.
So many games were delayed already. Thus, it’s only understandable that the PlayStation 5 launch will go different than expected as well. Sony urges prospective buyers to use online stores to receive a PlayStation 5. Of course, pre-orders in local stores still are viable and you will be able to pick up your new console that way.
Furthermore, these drastic rules only count for launch day. Meaning, you’ll still be able to buy a PlayStation 5 in the following days. To be honest, many already transitioned to online shopping throughout the year. Hence, the PS5 situation ought to affect a limited number of buyers.
