Sony introduces a 60-hour gameplay requirement to purchase the PS5 Pro in Japan, aiming to curb scalping.
Today’s PlayStation news is headlined by Sony’s effort to combat PS5 Pro scalping in Japan. According to Push Square, Sony has introduced a requirement that fans must have logged over 60 hours of gameplay over the past two years to be eligible to purchase the revamped console. This move appears to be an innovative approach to ensuring that the PS5 Pro reaches genuine gamers rather than resellers trying to profit from its high demand. The new system involves gamers applying for a ticket to purchase the console, priced at ¥137,980 (~$877), through the Sony Store.
Game Releases & Pre-Orders
In game release news, pre-orders are opening tomorrow for God of War Laufey. Scheduled for full release on February 16, 2027, the long-awaited addition to the franchise has introduced new in-game bonuses. These include unique armor sets and a new weapon for the protagonist, Faye, as reported by PlayStation Lifestyle and echoed in PlayStation Blog’s coverage (source).
Another notable entry is Suri: The Seventh Note, a new title set against an Indian-inspired fantasy world, launching on PS5 on October 30, 2026. The game’s developers are promising a richly detailed environment and wide-ranging influences from Indian culture.
Game Reviews
The review scene brings good news for Bandai Namco’s Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, which has achieved an impressive Metacritic score of 87/100 on PS5. The game is lauded for its thrilling dogfighting mechanics, as noted by PlayStation Lifestyle. The anticipation for its official release on October 2, 2026, rises with positive feedback across the board.
In another corner, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Remastered is getting a progressive review process. Despite already having a strong showing on PS5 with the Complete Edition, this free upgrade is earning attention again, though some question the necessity of this remaster. Details can be found on Push Square.
Finally, the sequel Toem 2 continues the charming adventure of its predecessor, with an emphasis on photography and exploration. This new installment adds platforming to its game mechanics, enhancing its puzzle-solving roots, as highlighted in the PlayStation Lifestyle review.
Other Developments
In North America, Insomniac’s Wolverine stands out as a rare single-player title breaking the top engagements on the PS5. According to Push Square, it holds a unique position in the market saturated by live-service games, showing there’s still an appetite for traditional gaming experiences.
