PS5 Pro Preorder Survival

Scalper bots are the bane of every gamer's existence, but you can beat them.

A person wearing a VR headset sits on a couch.
Photography by Ivan Samkov on Pexels
Published: Thursday, 03 October 2024 09:21 (EDT)
By Dylan Cooper

So, you’re ready to preorder the PS5 Pro, huh? Well, brace yourself. It’s not just you against other gamers; it’s you against an army of scalper bots. These sneaky little programs are designed to scoop up consoles faster than you can say “add to cart.” If you’ve tried to preorder a console in the past few years, you probably know the pain. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. Let’s dive into how you can outsmart these bots and secure your PS5 Pro before they do.

First off, let’s talk about why this is such a problem. Scalper bots are automated programs that can buy up stock in milliseconds. They’re faster than any human, and they’re relentless. Once they grab the consoles, they’re flipped for insane prices on resale sites. It’s a nightmare for regular gamers who just want to enjoy the latest tech without paying double or triple the retail price.

Step 1: Set Up Alerts and Accounts

Before you even think about hitting that preorder button, make sure you’re prepared. Create accounts on all the major retailer sites that are likely to carry the PS5 Pro. We’re talking Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and GameStop. Have your payment info saved and ready to go. The last thing you want is to be fumbling with your credit card while bots are snatching up all the stock.

Next, set up alerts. Many retailers allow you to sign up for notifications when a product is back in stock. You can also use third-party services like NowInStock or StockInformer to get real-time alerts. These services can be a lifesaver when stock drops unexpectedly.

Step 2: Use Multiple Devices

When it comes to preordering, speed is everything. One way to increase your chances is by using multiple devices. Have your phone, laptop, and even your tablet ready to go. Open different retailer sites on each device and be prepared to refresh like your life depends on it. The more screens you have, the better your odds of beating the bots.

Step 3: Timing Is Everything

Retailers usually announce when preorders will go live, but sometimes they drop stock without warning. According to Wired, keeping an eye on social media can give you a heads-up. Follow accounts like @Wario64 or @PS5StockAlerts on Twitter for real-time updates. These accounts often tweet the moment stock becomes available, giving you a slight edge over the bots.

Step 4: Consider Using a Bot (Yes, Really)

Okay, this one’s a bit controversial, but hear me out. If you can’t beat them, join them. There are bots available that regular consumers can use to help secure a preorder. Now, I’m not saying you should go full scalper mode, but if you’re desperate, this could be an option. Just be careful—using bots can sometimes violate a retailer’s terms of service, so proceed with caution.

Step 5: Don’t Give Up

If you don’t get a PS5 Pro on your first try, don’t lose hope. Retailers often restock in waves, so keep checking back. And remember, patience is key. The PS5 Pro will eventually be available without the need to battle bots, but if you’re determined to get one on launch day, persistence is your best friend.

In the end, it’s all about preparation and speed. The bots may be fast, but with the right strategy, you can still come out on top. As the saying goes, “Fortune favors the prepared.” So, get your accounts ready, set up those alerts, and may the odds be ever in your favor.

Gaming