The release of the PS5 is just a week (or two) away, depending on your region. Sony has now confirmed that launch-day sales will be conducted online only, so no consoles will be available to purchase on the day in stores.
The reason for no new physical console sales is due to protecting staff during the COVID-19 pandemic:
In the interest of keeping our gamers, retailers, and staff safe amidst COVID-19, today we are confirming that all day-of launch sales will be conducted through the online stores of our retail partners.
No units will be available in-store for purchase on launch day (November 12 or November 19, depending on your region) – please don’t plan on camping out or lining up at your local retailer on launch day in hopes of finding a PS5 console for purchase. Be safe, stay home, and place your order online.
Source: PlayStation Blog
Those who have already pre-ordered the console for in-store pick-up will be able to pick up their console on launch day as planned, but there will be no new in-store sales.
GAME recently informed customers that PS5 and Xbox Series X|S can be picked up in-store, providing the consoles were paid for in full earlier this week.