Xbox 25th Anniversary console is being scalped for $2000+ after pre-orders sell out

Some gamers scoffed at the $899 price of the Xbox Series X 25th Anniversary console. However, despite offering familiar specs, it’s become a popular target. After it sold out quickly at Microsoft’s store and other retailers, scalpers are now flipping pre-orders. eBay listings are closing in the $2000-2500 range, frustrating many fans.

Fortunate buyers received pre-order invitations, but that didn’t stop stock levels from evaporating almost instantly. Shoppers on the official marketplace and at storefronts like Amazon will find the limited-edition Xbox console unavailable. Their only option now may be sites like eBay, where sellers aim to make huge profits.

The auction house stipulates that all presale items must ship within 40 business days of a purchase. Since the Xbox Series X 25th Anniversary system has a November 13th release date, scalpers might have been out of luck. While some listings have been removed, others show successful sales of more than twice the hardware’s MSRP.

It’s unknown how many consoles Microsoft assembled to celebrate the occasion. Ideally, the translucent green machine would have surfaced before the latest Xbox price increase on August 1st. Still, the $100 upcharge hasn’t deterred many buyers. To ease the damage on wallets, besides the matching controller, gamers receive a download code for Halo: Campaign Evolved.

Other X25 gear

The separately available Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition is also being resold for more than its $79.99 MSRP. eBay’s Terapeak tracks the accessory routinely closing for $130-$150. Pre-order start times varied, but fans still were able to exhaust supplies nonetheless. The peripheral has a ship date of October 20th.

Followers may have better luck with third-party products. Microsoft has partnered with various manufacturers to expand the 25th anniversary lineup. Gear includes keyboards, mice, and earbuds from Razer, plus Backbone One and GameSir mobile controllers.