Global supply shortages and transportation issues are taking a toll on all industries, but the gaming industry is taking an unexpected blow. The holiday season is the peak of sales for all console producers, but it seems that many gamers won’t find a new console under the tree this year.
The raging chip shortage is endangering all branches of the tech industry, gaming being the most prominent. One after another, giants like Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo are reducing numbers of forecasted production by millions of consoles.
The issue gave rise to several vastly popular Facebook groups that offer tips to locals and information on restocks available in the area. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X are the most wanted but at the same time the hardest to find.
While companies keep promising to meet what they labeled as the ‘unprecedented demand,’ most experienced gamers and console shoppers recommend finding an alternative. However, the best alternative so far seems to be getting an annual subscription from Walmart or Best Buy.
Customers who subscribe to GameStop PowerUp Pro ($14.99), Best Buy Totaltech ($199.99), or Walmart + ($98) get exclusive information and access to their restocks. But, of course, due to the number of people who joined with this intention, it’s not guaranteed everyone will manage to get their hands on the desired console.
According to experts, supply chain issues will not disappear anytime soon. The earliest predicted date of the industry coming back to normal is late 2022.
