UK retailer Argos is receiving a lot of negative feedback online after the stock launch at 2am for the PlayStation 5. The console has been almost impossible to find since its launch in November, thanks in large part to distributors using robots. Unfortunately, it is not much easier to secure a system when a retailer releases its stock, because most people are still asleep, which is what happened this time. According to the retailer, the stock was simply made available when the site was updated, which happens in the early hours of the morning. Unfortunately, this is just another hurdle for potential PS5 owners!
A Tweet from Argos explaining the launch can be found embedded below.
These are released at that time due to the fact that when our site is updated, Ian. Sorry for the inconvenience. – Nick
– Argos (@Argos_Online) February 17, 2021
This answer probably won’t make customers happier about the late release and could even mean that more PS5 drops will happen at similar times! To complicate matters, a number of customers cited problems with the site, claiming that the system is in stock, but did not allow it to be added to their cart. Others were able to add the system, but were unable to verify. The whole situation seems like a big mess, leaving many disappointed.
The situation around PS5 resellers in the UK has become so bad that Parliament is considering banning the resale of consoles in the region. Meanwhile, Argos is currently looking to find ways to reduce the use of robots. In another Tweet, the retailer told a frustrated PlayStation fan that Argos “is working to implement scalper shutdown measures to ensure everyone has a fair chance.” It remains to be seen what those measures might be, but they may not be coming soon enough for some players!
For now, PlayStation fans will have to keep trying and hoping that Sony will be able to increase supply to meet current demand. Of course, retailers like Argos will also need to find ways to ensure that robots are not able to gather that supply as well.
Having trouble purchasing a PlayStation 5 console? What do you think about the launch systems of Argos in the first hours? Tell us in the comments or share your opinions directly on Twitter at @Marcdachamp let’s talk about all the games!