Sony has removed text from promotional material in several Southeast Asia countries referencing a release date in 2020, possibly indicating that the PlayStation 5 console might have been delayed to 2021 in the region. The company has been ramping up marketing for the next-gen system in recent weeks and has released a series of PS5 commercials to help promote the console ahead of its November launch, but it's starting to become apparent that not everyone will get the opportunity to buy the new machine this year.
Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic engulfed the world at the start of the year, there have been fears that it could affect the release of the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. After all, the virus has already halted production on various movies, television series, and video games, suggesting that a delay could occur. Although Sony denied delay rumors claiming it would be forced to postpone the launch of the console, some analysts have suggested there could be limited numbers of the system available over the holiday season, which is an effective delay for those not lucky enough to secure a pre-order.
The PS5 might be delayed in some countries, with the next-gen system no longer slated to release during the holiday season in a series of Southeast Asian regions. A report by MP1st indicates that the message "launches holiday 2020" is no longer present on promotional material from Sony in Indonesia and other territories, with the sudden removal having occurred for Malaysia, Philippine, Thailand, and Vietnam, suggesting a delay in Southeast Asia as a whole. While Sony has not yet confirmed or denied the validity assumption that the console has been delayed at press time, it seems likely considering the recent changes.
Southeast Asia wouldn't be alone, as Sony's next-gen console has already been delayed in India due to a strange trademark case. A retailer that notoriously specializes in counterfeit PlayStation accessories submitted a trademark for the PlayStation 5 name earlier this year, beating Sony to the punch. This has led to a series of problems in the country as the manufacturer tries to gain the trademark back, meaning that it cannot release the console in the market until the matter is resolved. However, it is not clear exactly how long this process could, leaving Indian gamers in limbo.
It has seemed likely for months that the COVID-19 pandemic would likely lead to some delays for both the PS5 and the Xbox Series X/S. While the manufacturers denied this was the case, this alleged postponement in Southeast Asian countries seemingly contradicts what Sony has previously said. Players in other regions will also likely be getting nervous that the PS5 might face further delays. Of course, it could suggest that there will be a very limited supply of units outside of pre-orders until 2021.
The PlayStation 5 will be available on November 12, 2020 in select countries and on November 19 globally. Pre-orders are available now.
Source: MP1st