How Do GameStop Pre-Orders Work? A Comprehensive Guide

GameStop pre-orders offer a way for gamers and collectors to secure highly anticipated releases before they hit shelves. In essence, pre-ordering through GameStop is a commitment to purchase a product, typically a video game, movie, or piece of gaming hardware, before its official release date. This system benefits both the customer and the retailer: it guarantees the customer a copy of the item, often with exclusive bonuses, and allows GameStop to gauge demand and plan inventory accordingly. The process involves a small deposit, typically $5, to reserve the item, and the full payment is usually processed when the product ships or becomes available for pick-up. Let’s delve into the specifics of how GameStop pre-orders function and answer common queries surrounding the process.

Understanding the GameStop Pre-Order Process

Pre-ordering with GameStop, whether online or in-store, generally follows a similar structure. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Selecting Your Item: Choose the game, movie, or other product you wish to pre-order. GameStop provides information on release dates and any applicable bonuses or special editions.

2. Placing the Pre-Order: You can pre-order either in a physical GameStop store or through their online platform. If you are pre-ordering online, you often have the option of shipping to your home or picking up in-store. In either case, you must pay a minimum of a $5 deposit to secure your order.

3. Payment Authorization: When you place a pre-order, GameStop will authorize your card for the amount of your purchase, but you won’t be fully charged right away. This authorization ensures that your card is valid and that funds are available. The actual charge only occurs when the item ships or is processed for in-store pickup, generally around 5 days before release.

4. The Release Date: For physical games, GameStop aims to have your pre-order available as close to the release date as possible. If you pre-ordered for delivery, they’ll ship it out around the time they get it in from distributors and it should arrive on or close to release day. For in-store pick-ups, if the store has a midnight launch, you may be able to get your game earlier. Check with your local store as these are not available for every game.

5. Pick-up or Delivery: If you opted for in-store pickup, you’ll need to visit the location where you placed the order with a valid photo ID. If you chose shipping, your package will be sent to the delivery address you provided during the checkout.

6. Held for 48 Hours: GameStop will typically hold pre-ordered items for approximately 48 hours after release. After this period, the reserved copy may be placed on the shelf for general sale. However, if you contact the store, they might be able to hold it for a bit longer or allow someone else to pick it up for you.

7. Price Guarantee: GameStop offers a pre-order price guarantee. If the price of the item drops between the time you place your pre-order and the release date, you will be charged the lower price.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About GameStop Pre-Orders

Here are 15 common questions about GameStop pre-orders, designed to provide clarity and enhance your understanding of the process:

How Long Does GameStop Hold Pre-Orders?

GameStop usually holds pre-ordered items for 48 hours. After this period, the copy becomes available for other customers. It’s crucial to contact your store if you need to extend this timeframe or arrange for someone else to pick up your pre-order.

Does GameStop Charge Immediately for Pre-Orders?

No, GameStop does not charge you immediately for a pre-order. They authorize your card when you place the order to verify funds but the actual charge occurs when your order is processed, typically 5 days before the item ships or is available for pickup.

Do GameStop Pre-Orders Arrive on Release Day?

For physical games, the goal is for your pre-order to arrive on or very close to the release date. For in-store pickup, many times you can pick it up the day of release. For those who pre-ordered online for delivery, it will ship out around the time it gets sent to stores and should arrive around release day. Digital pre-orders generally are available to download on release day.

Can I Pick Up a GameStop Pre-Order a Day Early?

If your local GameStop is hosting a midnight launch for a particular game, you can pick it up at midnight the night before release, but this depends on the store and the game itself. Contact your local store to confirm if a midnight launch is planned. Otherwise, you can pick it up when the store opens on release day.

What Happens if I Don’t Pick Up My GameStop Pre-Order?

If you don’t pick up your pre-order within the 48-hour hold period, GameStop will sell the copy to another customer. However, the money you paid towards the purchase will be credited back to you, generally in the form of store credit.

How Can I Track My GameStop Pre-Order?

You can track your GameStop pre-order by logging into your account on their website. Look for the “Order History” section, where you can review order details, tracking numbers, and available self-service options.

Can I Cancel a GameStop Pre-Order?

Yes, you can cancel a GameStop pre-order as long as your card hasn’t been charged. Since your card is usually charged around 5 days before the item’s release, you should be able to cancel online before this point. If it has charged, you can always return the item according to GameStop’s return policy.

Does Pre-Ordering a Game Mean I Get it Early?

Not usually. Pre-ordering ensures you get the game on or around the release date. It does not guarantee early access unless specifically stated by GameStop or the game publisher. This is different from “early access” programs which provide access prior to the official release date.

Do Pre-Ordered Games Automatically Download?

For digital pre-orders, you often have the option to enable auto-download. This allows the game to be downloaded to your console before release, so it is ready to play on the day it becomes available. However, you can choose to not do so as well if you desire.

What is the Minimum Amount Needed for a GameStop Pre-Order?

The minimum amount required for a GameStop pre-order is $5. This amount secures your copy of the game.

How Long Does It Take for a GameStop Order to Appear in My Account?

It may take up to 24 hours for a GameStop order to appear in your account order history. If you have not seen it after 24 hours, contact customer service for assistance.

Can I Pick Up Someone Else’s GameStop Pre-Order?

No, only the person who placed the pre-order can pick it up at the store. A valid photo ID is required as proof of identification.

What Does It Mean to Pre-Order a Game?

Pre-ordering a game means placing an order for a product that has not yet been released. It essentially secures your copy and often comes with special bonuses, ensuring that you receive it shortly after it is available to purchase.

Does Pre-Ordering Mean the Game is Sold Out?

No, pre-ordering means that the product is not yet released, it doesn’t mean that it is sold out. It’s simply a way to reserve a copy ahead of time.

Can I Pick Up My GameStop Pre-Order at Any Location?

No, when you pre-order from a specific GameStop, you must pick it up at the same store you made the pre-order at. Funds are exclusive to that location. You cannot transfer pre-orders to different GameStop locations.

By understanding how GameStop pre-orders function, you can navigate the process with confidence, ensuring you secure the products you want without any surprises. The system is designed to be user-friendly, and with these guidelines, you’re now ready to make informed pre-order decisions.