Sony uses playtime lottery for PlayStation 5 Pro sales in Japan

Sony is using a lottery system in Japan to manage limited PlayStation 5 Pro availability amid a global DRAM shortage affecting console production. The program gives players with 60 hours of playtime a chance to purchase the console at MSRP, with qualifying hours required to fall between September 27, 2024, and September 27, 2026.

The September 27, 2026 cutoff will be tracked by Sony to prevent players from artificially raising their playtime after the eligibility window closes. Applications are open until October 7, and winners will be notified on October 26. Selected buyers must complete their purchase by November 2, or their spot will be returned for another drawing scheduled later this year.