📰 New article from Retro Handhelds
PlayStation Flex: Pay More, Own Nothing
https://retrohandhelds.gg/playstation-flex-pay-more-own-nothing/
PlayStation Flex: The “Rent-to-Own” Trap That’s Not Even Close
Sony and UK rental firm Raylo have launched PlayStation Flex—a PS5 leasing program that sounds like a deal until you do the math. At £9.95/month for 36 months, you’ll shell out £417.24 for the 825GB digital PS5—almost as much as buying new (£479.99)—but walk away with nothing at the end.
Worse? The “cheap” rate only applies if you lock in for three years. Go month-to-month? £24.49/month—that’s nearly £883 over three years… still no console ownership. And cancel early? You’re on the hook for at least 20 months of payments, even if you bail.
The approval process? 60 seconds, soft credit check only. No income proof, no questions asked—just easy access to debt for people already stretching their budget.
This isn’t convenience—it’s a modern rent-to-own scam, dressed up with greenwashing about “circular economies.” Raylo’s already loaded up on £180M in debt to scale this model, and it’s heading to the U.S. soon.
Bottom line: If you can afford it, buy used. If not, wait for a sale—or just save up. At least then, it’ll be yours.