STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — It’s been nearly two years since Sony released the PS5 in fall 2020, but limited inventory and fast-selling restocks have made it difficult for many gamers to secure the next-generation Sony gaming console.
Thankfully, the upcoming release of one of Sony’s biggest exclusive titles will give shoppers the chance to get their hands on the new system.
Last Thursday, Sony announced that it will release a PS5 bundle that includes the highly-coveted console and the new God of War Ragnarök, the latest installment in the critically acclaimed action-adventure series.
The bundle will be released on Wednesday, Nov. 9, the same date as the new game, giving shoppers the opportunity to secure the system in time for the upcoming holiday season.
The PlayStation Store has not yet listed the bundle on its website, and the price has not been announced, though it will likely exceed the $499.99 price tag that the console carries on its own.
God of War Ragnarök will be the fifth mainline game and 11th overall game released in the God of War franchise, which follows protagonist Kratos on his quest for vengeance against the gods of Greek and Norse mythology.
PS5 RESTOCKS
Supply chain issues and the ongoing microchip shortage have severely limited inventory levels of the PS5 since its release, with most retailers selling out of the console within minutes of each restock.
It can be difficult to keep track of all the different retailers that are selling the console, but frequently checking online PS5 restock trackers can help prospective buyers know when the system is in stock or expected to return to stores.
One way to increase the chances of scoring a PS5 is to register for invite-only restocks on Amazon. Not everyone who registers will be accepted, but those who do will receive an email with a unique link to purchase the console that will be valid for 72 hours.
Shoppers can also register for invite-only restocks from the Sony online store, though just like with Amazon, registering does not guarantee an invitation during the next restock.
SUBSCRIBE TO MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMS
Some retailers, like Walmart, GameStop and Best Buy, are now offering exclusive early access to console restocks to members of the companies’ subscription-based membership programs.
Members of these programs are being granted access to PS5 consoles hours before they’re made available to the general public, meaning those willing to sign up have much better odds of securing a new system.
On the flip side, non-members may find it even harder than before to purchase the new consoles, with most of the available inventory being bought up by members before others even have the chance to add one to their cart.
Walmart is giving exclusive early access to the PS5 and Xbox Series X to members of the company’s Walmart+ program, which costs $13 per month, or $98 per year.
Walmart+ members are granted access to the company’s console restocks four hours before non-members.
While Walmart is currently offering a 15-day free trial for the Walmart+ program, only paying subscribers are eligible for early access restocks.
Click here for more information on Walmart+.
GameStop is offering early access to PS5 and Xbox Series X consoles to members of the company’s PowerUp Rewards Pro program, which costs $14.99 for a full year.
PowerUp Rewards Pro members are advised to keep an eye out for emails and social media posts regarding upcoming restocks for the best chance to snag a console.
While GameStop also offers an unpaid PowerUp Rewards program, only paid members of PowerUp Rewards Pro are eligible for early access.
Click here for more information on PowerUp Rewards Pro.
Best Buy is also offering early access to PS5 and Xbox Series X to members of the company’s Totaltech program, which costs $199.99 per year.
While the Totaltech program is a bit more expensive than the other membership programs, it also includes a wide range of other perks, like unlimited Geek Squad tech support, free delivery and installation, extended 60-day return windows, up to two years of protection on most Best Buy purchases and more.
Click here for more information on Best Buy’s Totaltech program.
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