Pre-orders for Grand Theft Auto 6's exclusive PlayStation 5 controllers went live this morning, resulting in a chaotic online experience for many eager consumers. The immense demand for any merchandise tied to the highly anticipated title quickly overloaded Sony's PlayStation Direct store.
Those attempting to secure a controller faced significant wait times. Some users reported being placed in queues with over an hour of estimated wait time, which fluctuated as the system struggled to manage the influx of traffic. The process was further complicated by website errors that required users to try alternative browsers or devices to complete their purchase.
While the limited edition controllers are experiencing rapid sell-outs at various retailers, some availability may still exist. GameStop and Best Buy have sold out of the white variant, though Target and Amazon are reported to still have stock. The black controller, exclusive to PlayStation Direct, appears to remain available.
PlayStation has implemented a limit of one controller per account in an effort to curb scalping. Despite this measure, the controllers are already appearing on eBay with resale prices nearly double the retail cost. It remains to be seen if these inflated prices will be met with actual purchases.
Details on how long these controllers will remain in stock and whether a restock will occur if they sell out completely have not yet been announced.
With the release of these controllers, Grand Theft Auto 6 is now just over two months away from its launch on November 19 for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. Marketing efforts for the game are intensifying, though specific details regarding future trailers or information about GTA Online prior to release have not been disclosed.