As the calendar edges closer to January 30, the gaming community’s excitement is palpable, with the launch of Nvidia’s latest powerhouse, the RTX 5090, fast approaching. Described as “the fastest graphics card on the consumer market,” the anticipation surrounding Nvidia’s newest addition isn’t just hype—it’s backed by phenomenal processing power and promises significant advancements in gaming technology.
Despite clear advisories from retailers about the biting cold, enthusiastic gamers have taken to camping outside Micro Center’s Tustin location in California. Armed with tents and a resilient spirit, these fans are determined to secure their own RTX 5090. Images and conversations from these campsites have surfaced on platforms like Reddit and the Unofficial Micro Center Discord channel, painting a picture of a community united by a shared passion for cutting-edge technology.
One camper, sharing insights directly from the grey tent hub, voiced their strategy on Reddit: “Hello everyone, I’m the guy that you guys are talking about in the second tent. And yes, we are buying it for our own use, no trades and no sells. We just don’t want to pay for that extra $ for a gaming card and yes we do have some times on our hands because we run a business. Good luck to everyone who are trying to get one.”
The communal atmosphere is reportedly positive, with current estimates suggesting up to 24 people have set up about 10 tents, braving the January chill for a chance to own the much-anticipated GPU.
Retailer Response to the Campout Craze
Micro Center has not turned a blind eye to these hardy souls. In a recent YouTube announcement, the company acknowledged the enthusiasm but discouraged overnight vigils due to safety concerns amidst the cold weather. This isn’t the first time Micro Center has seen such fervor; YouTuber Austin Evans documented similar scenes during the RTX 3070 launch back in 2020.
To manage expectations and ensure fairness, Micro Center will employ a voucher system on the launch day, allowing purchases on a first-come, first-serve basis. However, buyers won’t have the luxury of choosing specific models—they get what they get when their turn comes.
A Glimpse into the Future of Gaming
The RTX 5090 isn’t just another GPU; it represents a leap into the future of gaming with its price reflecting its premium status—standing at a steep $2,000. Its sibling, the RTX 5080, is also making waves with a more accessible price tag of $1,000. Despite these prices, the stock remains tight, especially for the RTX 5090, with some UK retailers reporting alarmingly low availability.