Pre-orders for the limited-edition Grand Theft Auto 6 DualSense controllers have become the latest target for scalpers, with listings already appearing on eBay for twice the retail price. The specialized controllers, created in collaboration between Rockstar Games and Sony to celebrate the upcoming launch of GTA 6, feature a design incorporating the game's logo, the Roman numerals "VI," and palm tree motifs in a color palette reminiscent of the game's art style, primarily pink, purple, and blue hues.
Despite pre-orders still being available and stock not yet depleted, scalpers have quickly acquired and relisted the controllers at inflated prices. The official retail price for these limited-edition controllers is $84.99, but resale listings have already doubled this amount. Given that pre-orders are ongoing, it is anticipated that these prices may escalate further.
The issue of scalpers acquiring limited-edition hardware at retail value and reselling them at significant markups is a persistent problem in the gaming community and beyond. Recent examples include high demand for special editions of Nintendo Switch consoles and accessories, as well as sold-out limited editions of Xbox Series X consoles. These items frequently surface on resale platforms like eBay at considerably higher prices.
Sony has implemented measures such as limiting orders to one DualSense controller per account in an attempt to curb scalping. However, these efforts have not entirely prevented the issue. In some physical retail environments, particularly in Japan, stores have begun using technology like facial recognition to prevent scalpers from acquiring excessive stock. These types of preventative measures are more difficult to enforce for online sales, which continue to be a lucrative avenue for scalpers.