New Delhi: A noticeable absence of Sony’s PlayStation 5 (PS5) from the market has emerged across India and the Delhi-NCR over the past week, leaving gaming enthusiasts struggling to purchase the in-demand console and fuelling speculation that retailers and the Indian arm of the global company may be holding back units in anticipation of a price increase.
Several consumers told the publication that they have been unable to locate the PS5 at major retail outlets across the region. The console is also currently out of stock on leading e-commerce platforms, further deepening concerns over its availability.
To assess the situation, the publication contacted major electronics retailers, including Croma, Reliance Digital and Vijay Sales. All three outlets provided a similar response, citing constrained supply from Sony as the primary reason.
Store representatives said they have not received any fresh consignments from the company, due to which they are unable to meet customer demand. “We have been facing this issue for the past one month or so. We are not getting any fresh supplies. There is no clarity on when the company will resume deliveries,” a floor manager at an electronics retail chain outlet told this newspaper. Similar responses were received from other outlets.
Multiple shop owners running independent retail stores also said that they have been facing a shortage since the last one month.
However, market experts suggested that outlets have PS5 inventory but are allegedly withholding sales on the directions of the company. The reason, sources said, is an expectation that Sony may raise the console’s price in the coming days. If accurate, this would allow retailers to sell existing stock at higher margins later.
These conflicting claims have added to the uncertainty among buyers, many of whom continue to search for the console without success.
When approached for clarification, Sony India declined to comment on the matter. “We would like to refrain from making any comment,” the company said, leaving questions unanswered and adding to the ongoing speculation.
In the absence of any official update on supply timelines or pricing, uncertainty continues to cloud the availability of the PS5.
The PlayStation 5, Sony’s flagship gaming console, was launched globally in November 2020. It remains one of the most in-demand gaming devices, known for its powerful hardware and immersive gaming experience.
