PS2 LAUNCHES
October 26, 2000

Sony's PlayStation 2 launched today to every bit as much commotion as the company was expecting. Lines started hours in advance (yesterday in instances where stores opened at midnight) as PS2 hopefuls waited to get their hands on the relatively limited number of systems that were shipped to retail.

Whether they were intentional or not, one thing's for sure: there was an abundance of shortages. This was noticed across the country. Many traditional retailers reported they were sold out by 9:00 this morning. Online retailer Toysrus.com/Amazon sold out in 30 seconds (yes, seconds).

For those who weren't satisfied with shopping at stores - because of shortages, lines, or for whatever reason - internet auction site eBay became a viable option. This is likely to be a very strong marketplace for the system based on the situation thus far. Many of the systems are selling for $400-500 there, though the amount of $1000+ systems, including one that went for $14,999.00, is climbing quickly since the system is now available.

There is no sales data yet for today, and none is likely to be available until some time next week, but Sony is projecting $400 million in sales revenue (500,000 systems at $300 each = $150 million; $250 million in peripherals and games), with most of it being today... despite shortages.

If you didn't manage to get your hands on one today (and that includes a lot of people), you'll have another shot at it late next week when an additional 100,000 units make their way to stores. (Note: in most places, those who pre-ordered will be given preferential treatment.)

Yeah, but what about the games?

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