If you’ve been trying to find a new PlayStation 3 this past year at your local GameStop, chances are you’ve been told that the console is out of stock. According to a financial call today, conducted by GameStop COO Paul Raines, the company estimates that due to shortages, PS3 systems are sold out 80% of the time on a daily basis. Since last year’s holiday season, there has been an increased demand for the PS3; which is understandable considering that recent blockbuster releases like Uncharted 2: Among Thieves and God of War III are exclusive to the platform.
Unsurprisingly, the shortage has had a negative effect on PlayStation sales. Only 180,800 units were sold in the month of April, but the company hopes to have more systems readily available in the near future. Sony said the following in a brief conversation with IGN today:
"As we’ve said previously, consumer demand remains incredibly high, and PS3 supply will continue to be tight across our retail channels. Despite current shortages in the market, we expect to improve the situation shortly"
Just how much of an improvement Sony anticipates remains to be seen.
[IGN]
