The removal of the PlayStation 4 camera from the PlayStation 4 SKU no doubt helped Sony lower the price of their console and compete with Microsoft, but it appears that the camera's availability as an optional accessory is quite limited and has caused some problems for those looking to purchase the device. CVG is reporting that the camera's short supply has prompted a video game retailer to seize the opportunity and mark up the price of the camera.
With an official MSRP of $59.99, short supply and "high demand" have raised the price of the device on Ebay and Amazon's third party sellers, and even GameStop. That's right; GameStop is currently listing the PlayStation 4 Camera at an increased price of $69.99. The listing has been at that price for some time now. Other retailers such as Best Buy and Target, despite being out of stock, still list the camera at its MSRP price.
When asked by Polygon about the camera's short supply, Sony replied with the following statement, "While we do not comment on the sales figures, shipment or monthly production quantity, PlayStation Camera remains in high demand, and we've been pleased with the camera's popularity among PlayStation 4 owners."
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Polygon reached out to Gamestop over the price increase but did not receive a reply.
The PlayStation 4 Camera allows for users to take to Twitch to stream their games along with a camera feed of themselves. The PS4 has a few toys that work with the camera, but its usage has been primarily optional.
Gamestop's price hike is a bit low and does no favors to the company's image, but they're in the business of making money and that's what they're hoping to do. Power to the players, indeed.
