GameStop Customer’s Attempt to Order New Switch Games Ends in Disaster

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GameStop Customer's Attempt to Order New Switch Games Ends in Disaster

Highlights

  • GameStop‘s definition of “new” games may not match the expectations of every customer, leading to disappointment and confusion.
  • It’s common for the last copy of a game to be removed from its box for display, causing potential damage when repackaged.
  • Despite the damaged packaging, the games themselves should be brand new and playable, though the appearance may vary.

As a long-time gamer and someone who values the presentation of my games, I was truly disappointed when I received two “new” Nintendo Switch games from GameStop that came in damaged packaging. I had ordered Octopath Traveler and Shin Megami Tensei 5 with excitement, eager to add these titles to my collection. However, what arrived fell far short of my expectations.

A gamer expressed frustration and confusion after purchasing two new Nintendo Switch games from GameStop, only to receive damaged and faulty items. This unfortunate incident has sparked sympathy among the gaming community. However, there’s a reasonable explanation behind this occurrence at GameStop.

GameStop, similar to other physical game retailers, faces challenges as an increasing number of players opt for digital distribution channels to obtain their games, and consoles no longer come with disc drives. The excitement surrounding midnight game releases has waned, making it less frequent to observe dedicated fans rushing to local game stores. In response, GameStop must adapt and explore new avenues to survive, although its primary focus remains selling new and pre-owned games. However, this fan was disappointed by the definition of “new” presented by GameStop.

Reddit user VvSweetsvv recounted their recent purchase of two games, Octopath Traveler and Shin Megami Tensei 5, from GameStop online. They bought these items in supposedly new condition. However, upon receiving Octopath Traveler, they noticed a spot where a sticker had been taken off, raising concerns if it was originally sold as used but passed off as new. The fan was surprised by the poor condition of Shin Megami Tensei 5, which had a large tear in its box haphazardly repaired with clear tape. VvSweetsvv questioned whether this was GameStop’s usual practice or if they should reach out for a refund or replacement.

GameStop and its Definition of “New”

Some users expressed understanding but suggested an answer that might not please everyone. Those in the know about GameStop’s retail methods explained that it’s normal for the final copy of a game to be taken out of its original box to showcase it on store shelves. When such orders are placed, these games get repackaged and dispatched. At times, GameStop may not even include the initial case at all. Although the game itself remains untouched and unused, the state of the packaging can vary.

As a gamer, I can relate to the disappointment of receiving a damaged game in the mail. Recently, I ordered Shin Megami Tensei 5 from a local store, only to find out that the box it came in was badly damaged. An employee suggested that it might have been mishandled by a customer in the store. The store had three options: send a replacement in a completely different or unmarked box, ship it as is with the damage, or cancel the order altogether. They went with the second option and sent me the game in its damaged packaging. Luckily, the game itself was fine, but receiving a “new” product in such condition seemed ironic to me. I’ve heard stories of customers accidentally receiving expensive games instead of what they ordered, but this situation is still a letdown for me.

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2024-07-19 01:04