Beyond game rentals, Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has teamed up with UK leasing company Raylo to launch a new hardware rental service for PlayStation. Through the "Flex" program, gamers can now rent a PS5 console and other related gear on a monthly subscription basis. This initiative offers flexible monthly options and longer-term contracts, perfect for players looking to spread out their costs rather than making a hefty upfront purchase.
According to Gamespot, the "Flex" program in the UK allows players to rent a standard PS5, a PS5 Digital Edition, a PS5 Pro, a PlayStation Portal handheld, and even the PlayStation VR2 headset. Gamers can choose between a flexible monthly plan or commit to 12, 24, or 36-month contracts for a lower monthly fee.
When it comes to pricing, the flexible monthly rental for a PS5 Digital Edition starts at £21.95, while the standard PS5 is £23.59. However, opting for a 36-month contract significantly drops the price: the PS5 Digital Edition goes down to £10.99 per month, the standard PS5 to £11.99, and the PS5 Pro for 36 months comes in at £18.95.
While the total cost of a long-term rental might slightly exceed a direct purchase, it offers a much more accessible option for players who can't pay the full price upfront. Plus, with the highly flexible monthly plan, players can cancel their subscription at any time.
It's crucial to note that equipment rented through Raylo does not become the player's property. According to Raylo's FAQ, once a rental contract ends, players can choose to return the device, continue paying the monthly fee, or discuss a buy-out option with Raylo. However, Sony Interactive Entertainment has yet to disclose the buy-out prices or terms.
Japan Follows Suit with Short-Term PS5 Rentals
Beyond the UK, Sony has also rolled out a different PS5 rental model in Japan. Reports indicate that Japanese game retailer GEO launched a short-term PS5 rental service last month. Players can rent a PS5 console for 8 days for just 80 JPY, or for 15 days for 1,780 JPY. This service quickly became fully booked after its launch across 400 stores in Japan, especially following the release of "Monster Hunter Wilds," highlighting the strong market demand for short-term rentals.
via： VGC