Yesterday, thousands of gamers across the US snapped up the PS3 pre-orders being offered at Gamestop/EB. Soon thereafter, thousands of pre-orders were going up on eBay and Craigslist. Today, eBay has taken down those listings due to a policy that doesn't allow pre-orders of a product more than 30 days from the launch of said product. That means that on October 18, gamers can once again place their receipts up for sale.

Although eBay is currently cracking down, Craigslist still has a lot of listings. Take a look at the listings for Craigslist NYC. In addition to the $2,000 pre-orders being offered, there are many warnings of scams taking place. It seems opportunistic scammers are recreating pre-order receipts and selling them. One guy claims he is out $800.

If you are planning on selling or buying a pre-order, I'd recommend against it. From the seller's standpoint, it'd be hard to convince somebody that you aren't a scammer. What's more, what if your Gamestop/EB doesn't get as many PS3s are they are supposed to? You'll be left without a system for your buyer.

From the buyer's standpoint, it'd be foolish to buy something that isn't yet in the hands of the seller. I'd recommend that if you want to buy a PS3 from eBay or Craigslist that you wait until the seller has the PS3, has taken pictures of it, and assures you that he/she is selling the unopened system, not just the box. I say this because during last year's Xbox 360 eBay sell off many sellers took pictures of the actual box the system came in and then deceptively worded their listing so that unwary buyers purchased just the box itself, not the system inside.

If you really want a PS3 and don't want to stand in line, then yes, eBay or Craigslist is a good way to get one (if you have the money). However, be wary and make sure you read the listing carefully, look at the buyer's rating, make sure that the seller will ship with tracking and insurance, and use PayPal.

If you're using Craigslist, you'll be local, so it'd be worth the drive to go see the system that you're buying.

Good luck you non-preordered, unwashed masses!