NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Release Excitement Grows as Fans Camp Outside Retailers

Excitement is building around the impending launch of NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 5090, with enthusiastic fans establishing camps outside retailers in anticipation of securing a unit on the first day of availability.

Countdown to NVIDIA’s RTX Blackwell GPU Release: The Scalping Trend Returns

As the release approaches, it’s not surprising to see dedicated consumers lining up—many motivated by the potential to resell these highly sought-after graphics cards for a profit. Each year, we witness this surge, as individuals snatch up units at suggested retail prices (SRPs) only to list them at significantly inflated rates on resale platforms like eBay. Recent snapshots shared on Reddit depict eager campers positioning themselves outside a MicroCenter ahead of the launch of NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 50 series. The sight certainly adds a humorous twist to the frenzied atmosphere.

Campers already appeared by u/Temporary-Director46 in Microcenter

Interestingly, within the Reddit conversation, a participant claimed to be part of the camping crew, asserting that his motivation was a desire to avoid paying inflated prices. However, this may be an uphill battle, given the reported scarcity of inventory, which we will explore further.

NVIDIA’s RTX Blackwell launch is poised to differ from previous events. The company is expected to release a limited number of stock-keeping units (SKUs), meaning that avid gamers and collectors may face challenges in obtaining these cards. Reports also suggest that partner manufacturers (AIBs) have slim margins for the RTX 5000 series, making it exceedingly unlikely for custom models to be available at SRP. If rumors prove accurate, campers who secure the Founders Edition (FE) models may have a rare chance to purchase at the original price.

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Founders Edition — Image Credits: NVIDIA

With just four days remaining until the launch, these campers face uncertainty. While their dedication is commendable, the reality is that stock levels are expected to be minimal. NVIDIA appears committed to keeping these initial WeUs away from scalpers, raising questions about how MicroCenter permitted such camping activity in the first place. Regardless, the presence of these campers certainly amplifies the anticipation surrounding next-gen GPU launches.

As we approach launch day, potential buyers should brace for a competitive atmosphere—inventory is projected to be tight. For the best chance at obtaining a unit on release day, visiting physical retail locations like MicroCenter may prove advantageous, mirroring the strategy employed by the campers.

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