Ahead of the upcoming PS4 release date, Sony has suggested that the next-gen console “could be in short supply for up to four months after launch.”

Hinting that PS4 stock shortages could well be on the horizon, Sony has claimed that demand will outstrip supply, with many eager gamers now expected to miss out on being able to snap up the Xbox One rival ahead of the Christmas period.

With a UK PS4 release date set for November 22, two weeks after the console is set to touch down in the US, Sony’s comments have suggested that the PS3 follow-on might be hard to come by until Easter 2014 . PS4 pre-orders have already sold out, with Sony having revealed that more than 1 million consoles were reserved within weeks of advanced orders opening.

Although PS4 pre-orders can still be placed, Sony has informed retailers that new orders are not guaranteed to arrive in time for the console’s in-store launch.

Citing “sources close to the platform holder,” gaming publication MCV has suggest that “the current number of units expected in the UK is unlikely to satisfy demand,” adding “The machine could be in short supply for up to four months after launch.”

Sony is said to have stressed that it is already looking to quell potential PS4 stock shortages. The latest reports stated: “The PlayStation UK team is in crucial talks to secure more PS4 consoles, after admitting it had underestimated how popular it would be.”

Demand for the PS4 is higher than that for the Xbox One, a selection of retailers have suggested recently, with the new Sony costing £80 less than its Microsoft branded rival.

While the PS4 price tag has been set at £349, the Xbox One, which is bundled with the mandatory Kinect sensor will set wannabe owners back £429.

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