The PS5 Pro is so scarce in Japan that Sony is now holding a lottery. A lottery is running via the Japanese Sony Store to protect buyers from scalpers. Not everyone can participate – clear conditions apply.
Who can participate in the PS5 Pro lottery in Japan?
Users with a PlayStation Network account registered in Japan are eligible to participate. They must have accumulated at least 60 hours of playtime on PS5, PS4, or both consoles combined, between September 27, 2024, and September 27, 2026. Sony apparently aims to favor genuine players and curb resellers with this measure.
How does the lottery work and how much does the console cost?
- Applications are open until October 7, 2026, 23:59 Japan time.
- Results will be sent out starting around October 26, 2026.
- Winners must complete their purchase in the online Sony Store by November 2, 2026.
- If winners do not complete their purchase in time, another draw will be held among previously unsuccessful applicants.
- The price is 137,980 Yen, roughly equivalent to 880 US dollars.
The lottery only applies if more eligible individuals apply than units are planned. Otherwise, sales will proceed normally.
Does the scarcity also affect Germany?
As of now, there are no reports that this promotion is taking place outside of Japan – it explicitly applies only to the Japanese Sony Store. We also have no reliable information regarding shortages in Europe. Those who wish to buy a PS5 Pro in their region should still keep an eye on the situation at usual retailers and on the official PlayStation website. From our perspective, this measure is a clear sign of how strong the demand for Sony's premium console still is. A lottery process with a playtime hurdle is also unusual and reminiscent of the times when the regular PS5 was almost impossible to get for months.
Source: Eurogamer
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