Sony Is Making PS5 Pro Buyers Prove They’re Real Gamers in Japan

Sony is putting an unusual hurdle in front of Japanese gamers looking to buy a PlayStation 5 Pro: they will have to prove they have actually spent time playing on a PlayStation console.

Under Sony Japan’s latest purchase program, buyers need a Sony account registered in Japan and must have logged at least 60 hours of gameplay on a PS5 or PS4 during the two-year period ending September 27, 2026. The same account must also be used for the purchase.

The requirement is part of a new Sony Store application process for the PS5 Pro, which comes as the upgraded console continues to face supply pressure.

Sony says eligible customers can submit their purchase applications through October 7. If the number of qualifying applications exceeds the available inventory, Sony will select buyers through a lottery.

Those selected will be notified from around October 26 and will have until November 2 to complete their purchase online. Each Sony account can be used to purchase only one console, and Sony says the program is limited to people residing in Japan.

The PS5 Pro is listed in Japan at ¥137,980, including tax, for the 2TB model. The console features advanced ray tracing, higher frame-rate gaming and enhanced image quality on compatible 4K displays.

The unusual eligibility rules appear designed to make the limited supply available through Sony’s store to established PlayStation users rather than simply whoever can reach the checkout first. Sony also explicitly prohibits applications made for resale.

The move comes as availability of the PS5 Pro remains constrained in other markets as well. Supply limitations have made the console difficult to find at some major retailers, while Sony and other hardware companies continue to deal with component supply constraints.

There is also another barrier for international buyers. Sony says the program is restricted to people living in Japan, and products purchased through this particular offer will only be shipped within Japan.

For Sony, the approach represents a significant departure from the usual first-come, first-served hardware sale. Instead of simply having enough money to buy a PS5 Pro when stock appears, Japanese customers now need an established PlayStation history to even qualify for the opportunity.