PlayStation 5 stock shortage: Is the end in sight?
Getting your hands on PlayStation 5 stock continues to be exceptionally difficult, but will the situation change anytime soon?
Check cheapest PS5 price on eBay
While there are smatterings of good news, the PlayStation 5 remains in very short supply. Sony has released its 2021 earnings, and as you would expect, the lack of PlayStation 5 stock continues to hamstring the company.
It's a complicated situation, so let's take a look at the factors involved in the ongoing PlayStation 5 stock shortage. For more information, check out our complete guide to purchasing a PlayStation 5 in Australia.
Lockdowns in China
As the manufacturing capital of the world, the internal goings-on of China are a huge factor in the PS5 stock situation. The country is aggressively pursuing a "zero COVID" policy, and factories have seen collateral damage, with work grinding to a halt in Shanghai and other cities. Shanghai recently imposed its tightest restrictions yet.
The country's COVID policies are also wreaking havoc on its shipping ports. The lockdowns are expected to impact shipping of all kinds as freighters jam up the Chinese coastline. Considering the PlayStation 5 has already proven very sensitive to hiccups in the global supply chain, this suggests a poor outlook for the PlayStation 5 stock shortage.
In addition to the manufacturing of PS5s themselves, these lockdowns aren't doing any favours for the long-running global computer chip shortage. The pandemic has seen an increased demand in consumer tech, matched by a reduction in computer manufacturing capability around the world, and it's not getting any better. This too is taking a toll on the PlayStation 5.
Sony's current projections
Sony, meanwhile, is striking a somewhat optimistic tone. It plans to ship 18 million PS5s throughout the 2022-23 financial year. It's an ambitious goal, with just 11.5 million PS5s sold in 2021. And the head honchos of the company have acknowledged that lockdowns in China are a threat to its plans, with CFO Hiroki Totoki stating "A downside risk would be if there is a further worsening in the supply chain, including the potential widening of lockdowns in China."
Totoki also admits that 18 million may not even be enough to satiate consumers' desires. "We feel that there was a little bit higher demand than that... If the question is whether we can meet the demand, I think [we are] still short somewhat."
So, it's looking like the PlayStation 5 stock shortage isn't going to change anytime soon. COVID and other geopolitical factors continue to make it impossible for Sony to meet the massive demand for its console.
PlayStation 5 shopping tips
If the PS5 stock situation remains the same, consumers will need to keep pulling out all the stops to get their hands on the coveted console. Luckily, we've got some top tips to give you the best possible chance.
The PlayStation 5 recently came into stock at Amazon, but it's carrying an exorbitant price tag ($1,180 compared to the RRP of $749.95) and supply is limited. You can also check out this helpful eBay link showing you the cheapest price for which the PS5 is available on the website.
If you're a Twitter user, PS5 Stock Alerts Australia is a great follow. This account lets you know whenever PlayStation 5 stock becomes available at major Australian retailers. Daring consumers could also consider importing a PlayStation 5 from an overseas seller. But this comes with complications, like the need to purchase an adaptor plug, shipping costs and everyone's favourite pastime, international consumer law disputes.
Before buying a PlayStation 5 from any kind of reseller, be sure to do plenty of background research to ensure you don't get scammed.
PlayStation 5 consoles
When last checked, these links led to available PS5 stock. Just be aware that you may need to pay a premium.
Check price at eBay Australia
eBay Australia
Check price at Amazon
Amazon
Check price at The Good Guys
The Good Guys
Buy PS5 gear
If you do get your hands on a PlayStation 5 in Australia, here are some essential accessories and games you'll need to go with it.
10% off Wireless PlayStation 5 Controller on Amazon
Most PlayStation 5 purchases will include a controller, but some may not. If yours does not, be sure to grab this deal from Amazon.
Buy for $95 (was $109.95)
$10.07 off Pulse 3D Wireless Headset on Amazon
One of the most exciting features of the PlayStation 5 is its 3D audio system, immersing gamers in far-flung worlds like never before. With sounds flying in seemingly from every direction, this is a critical element of the next gen experience.
Buy for $144 (was $159.95)
21% off PlayStation 5 HD Camera on Amazon
The in-house production capabilities of the PlayStation 5 wouldn't be complete without this HD camera accessory. Whether streaming or playing with friends, this camera ensures the ultimate next gen experience.
Buy for $84 (was $99.95)
$100.95 off Battlefield 2042
This truly is a ridiculous discount on one of the best FPS games around.
Buy now for $9 (was $109.95)
68% off Assassin's Creed Valhalla
One of the most enduring franchises in the world of gaming returns. Exciting RPG mechanics throw players helplessly into the world of the Dark Age Viking.
Buy now for $32 (was $99.95)
60% off FIFA 2022
Live the life of a football superstar with the most lifelike simulation FIFA has produced yet.
Buy now for $44 (was $109.95)
Want even more info on the latest and greatest on gaming? Head over to Game Finder.
