- Pre-orders for Sony’s Astro Bot DualSense controller went live recently and instantly sold out.
- Unfortunately, scalpers are already reselling the limited edition controller for more than twice the original price.
- The scalping has reminded everyone of a few years ago when the PS5 was being sold for twice its price.
Sony recently announced its adorable Astro Bot controller, and pre-orders for the DualSense controller went live yesterday. However, with the limited stock available, scalping issues were inevitable.
Scalpers who quickly secured pre-orders are now reselling the controllers at much higher prices than the original $79.99 MSRP. One scalper is even selling the Astro Bot controller for a staggering $198.99. This is more than twice the original price.
Why it matters: Scalping was a major problem a few years back. The high demand for this controller has reminded everyone of the events from 2021, a time when the PS5 saw similar scalping across the globe.
The Astro Bot controller is flooding eBay, with the average listing price hovering around $150, nearly 2x the price originally set by Sony.
Sony released the Astro Bot controller primarily as a marketing tool and a collectible for fans, coinciding with Asobi Studio’s upcoming release of “Astro Bot,” set to launch on September 4 this year, which is heavily anticipated worldwide.
However, it’s unfortunate that many fans who genuinely wanted the limited edition controller now either have to miss out on it or pay a significantly higher price due to scalping.
It goes without saying that scalping is a major problem and should be strongly discouraged.
Many of these purchases are automated by bots, making it difficult for genuine fans to buy the products they want. This practice not only inflates prices but also creates an unfair buying experience.
While many major companies struggle to combat scalping, Nintendo has taken a firm stance, stating that they will ensure adequate supply for the Nintendo Switch 2 and won’t let scalpers get away easily this time.
Nonetheless, Astro Bot arrives on September 6. Sony has also launched a PlayStation Direct queue for those looking to buy the controller, giving fans some hope as they wait for an attempt to buy this DualSense controller.
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[News Reporter]
Avinash is currently pursuing a Business degree in Australia. For more than three years, he has been working as a gaming journalist, utilizing his writing skills and love for gaming to report on the latest updates in the industry. Avinash loves to play action games like Devil May Cry and has also been mentioned on highly regarded websites, such as IGN, GamesRadar, GameRant, Dualshockers, CBR, and Gamespot.