The month of August is nearing its end but gamers still don’t have exact launch dates for both next-gen consoles – PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Also, the prices for both consoles have yet to be announced.
The good news is Microsoft already confirmed that they are looking to release the Xbox Series X in November. On the other hand, Sony still intends to stick to a release date closer to the holiday season. According to VideoGamesChronicle, this might be because Microsoft plans to launch first.
VGC mentions that several development and retail sources revealed to them that the Xbox Series X will be released by the first week of November. On the other hand, Sony has reportedly booked marketing spend in the United Kingdom for seven days starting November 13, 2020. This means the PlayStation 5 is set to be released anytime from November 13 to 20, 2020.
Report suggests PS5 will launch November 13
The Xbox Series X might have a two week head start on the PS5
via @GamesRadar
_#PS5 #XboxSeriesXhttps://t.co/JbyVaelU2E pic.twitter.com/iNuSNrNRVd— Roberto Serrano' (@geronimo_73) August 28, 2020
VGC also pointed out that it is still unsure if the PlayStation 5 will be released on the same day worldwide or follow a staggered release like its predecessor. The latter option is improbable but complications in logistics brought by the global pandemic may force Sony to do this. During the PlayStation 4’s launch, European countries waited at least two weeks after the consoles had been released in North America.
Even though the manufacturing of both next-gen consoles is still on schedule, both Microsoft and Sony are doubtful that shipping methods could still be interrupted which may result in limited supplies in the first weeks of release. They always have the option to ship the units by air which will be much faster but would obviously increase their expenses.
Whatever the case is, both Microsoft and Sony are being really cautious which is why details about the consoles’ releases are scarce.