Demand for the PS5 Pro is rising in Japan as players prepare for the November release of Grand Theft Auto 6. Standard PS5 consoles remain available, but the premium model is proving harder to secure, prompting Sony Japan to introduce purchase limits and a lottery through its own online store.
The situation comes as supply chains face wider pressure, including demand created by the global AI hardware race. Players who have not yet moved to current-generation hardware appear to be upgrading ahead of GTA 6, with the PS5 Pro receiving particular attention because Sony has promoted game optimisations designed specifically for the console.
Who can enter the PS5 Pro lottery?
The offer applies only to purchases made through the Japanese Sony Store. Applicants must use a Sony account with at least 60 hours of verified playtime on PS4 or PS5 between 27 September 2024 and 27 September 2026.
Eligible players can apply for one console per customer until 7 October. Sony is scheduled to confirm successful applicants by 26 October, with deliveries planned for the first half of November—timed to arrive before the new GTA release.
Japan has used gaming lotteries before
Console lotteries are familiar to Japanese players. Nintendo used similar eligibility requirements and pre-order lotteries around the launch of Switch 2, including draws held both before and after the system reached stores.
The PS5 Pro restriction is notable because PlayStation hardware sales in Japan have generally trailed Nintendo’s in recent years. The higher cost of PlayStation consoles has been a factor, even after Sony released a lower-priced, Japan-only model with regional restrictions intended to encourage local adoption.
GTA 6 drives interest in Sony’s premium console
The upcoming game appears to have created a fresh burst of interest in the PS5 Pro, while regular PS5 models remain in stock. Limiting the draw to active PlayStation users may also be viewed as a fairer approach than allowing stock to go to whoever reaches an online queue first.
If demand continues, the attention surrounding GTA 6 could benefit the wider PlayStation range and help revive console sales in Japan. It also demonstrates why lotteries may be worth considering in other markets when popular gaming hardware and accessories become difficult to obtain.
For readers comparing dedicated gaming setups, RETROCADE’s arcade news covers developments across the industry. Those planning a separate home setup can also browse arcade machines, explore compact bartop arcades, or use the arcade machine buying guide before choosing a cabinet.
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