PS5 Disc Drive Shortage Persists, Frustrating Gamers
The ongoing shortage of standalone PlayStation 5 disc drives continues to plague gamers, particularly those who've purchased the disc-less PS5 Pro. Since the PS5 Pro's November 2024 launch, demand for the add-on drive has far outstripped supply.
Sony's own PS Direct online stores in both the US and UK remain consistently out of stock, with any available units vanishing rapidly. While some third-party retailers like Best Buy and Target occasionally receive shipments, these are quickly snapped up, leaving many empty-handed.
This situation mirrors the initial PS5 launch in 2020, with scalpers aggressively acquiring drives and reselling them at significantly inflated prices. This adds considerable expense to the already premium cost of the PS5 Pro, creating further frustration for consumers.
The silence from Sony regarding this shortage is notable, especially considering the company's proactive approach to PS5 production during the pandemic. The PS5 Pro's omission of a built-in disc drive has been a contentious issue since its September unveiling, adding approximately $80 to the console's price when purchasing the drive directly from Sony. Coupled with scalping activities, this leaves many PlayStation fans with little option but to wait for improved supply.
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The lack of readily available PS5 disc drives presents a significant challenge for those wanting to enjoy physical games on their PS5 Pro. The outlook remains uncertain, with no indication of when the shortage might ease.
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