Sony has introduced a new measure in Japan to restrict PS5 Pro purchases to users who have played on PlayStation consoles for at least 60 hours over the past two years. This policy aims to combat the high demand and scalping of the recently released PS5 Pro.
The Japanese Sony Store is now implementing a ticketing system for purchasing the PS5 Pro, priced at ¥137,980 (approximately $877). To be eligible for this system, applicants must meet the gameplay requirement as evidence of being an active player rather than a reseller.
This gameplay condition specifically targets console usage over the last 24 months, intending to prioritise genuine fans over scalpers. Buyers must apply for purchase tickets and Sony verifies their PSN playtime as part of the eligibility process.
The introduction of this requirement in Japan highlights Sony’s approach to protecting stock for actual players in a market where scalping has impacted availability. It is currently unclear if similar restrictions will be deployed in other regions.
The PS5 Pro’s limited availability and significant price point have contributed to intense demand, prompting Sony’s intervention through these eligibility controls. The company’s policy focuses on ensuring that consoles reach active community members rather than being bought in bulk for resale.
This confirmed restriction will affect PS5 owners looking to upgrade to the Pro model in Japan, as they must prove meaningful engagement with the platform to qualify for a unit under the ticket system. The requirement is set to remain tied to the official Sony Store’s purchasing process, reinforcing its role in regulating allocation during the product’s launch window.
