In the latest episode of "next-generation gaming issues", the Xbox Series X console pre-order has also seen its stock depleted from all online merchants. Following issues with both the RTX 3080 and PS5 supplies, now it's the time for Microsoft to be in the spotlight, as the question of low stock or fundamentally impressive demand arises once again. This is likely an answer we won't ever have; however, it also has to be said that there is plenty of time for stocks to be replenished for both Microsoft's Xbox Series X and Sony's PlayStation 5 before their respective launches. I wouldn't worry too much for now.

At the same time as Xbox Series X pre-orders made stock go the way of the dodo, the usual scalpers have already surfaced on the common secondhand marketplaces, looking to sell their "pre-order" confirmed consoles for prices that usually sit around at double the MSRP (set at $499 by Microsoft). Remember to not let yourself be a part of this chain; save yourself money, and be part of the solution to scalpers by not engaging with their offerings. You still have time to secure your console.in related news, another warning: be careful with what you're ordering. The Amazon page for the Xbox One X (Microsoft's previous generation flagship console, not to be confused with the next-gen Xbox Series X) has seen an uptick in popularity in the order of 747%. One can hope this is the work of bots misordering consoles due to their similar names and the fact that both consoles tend to come up in searches for Xbox Series X. However, some of these could be the result of less knowledgeable (or less attentive) users (or parents of users) thinking they're purchasing the upcoming console. Unless interest has just exploded two months before the next-gen launch, which is doubtful, to say the least. Always double-check your order before committing.