Can You Buy a Game on Amazon Then Return It? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is: it depends. While Amazon offers a fairly robust return policy, the specifics around video games, both physical and digital, can be nuanced. Returning a game bought on Amazon is not always straightforward, and understanding the conditions is crucial to avoid disappointment and potential fees. This article will break down Amazon’s game return policies, explore various scenarios, and provide clarity on what you can expect when trying to return a game.
Physical Games: The Sealed vs. Opened Dilemma
Sealed Games
Generally, physical video games purchased from Amazon can be returned within 30 days of purchase for a full refund, provided they remain unopened and in their original packaging. This aligns with standard return policies for most new, sealed products. It’s essential that the game is still in saleable condition, meaning no damage to the packaging and the original seals are intact.
Opened Games
Things get more complicated when you open a video game. Once a physical game’s packaging has been opened, a full refund is not guaranteed. You may still be eligible for a refund or replacement, but this depends largely on the reason for the return and the discretion of the seller.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Defective Games: If the game is defective or doesn’t work properly, you are generally eligible for a replacement or refund. Amazon typically prioritizes resolving issues with faulty products.
- Changed Your Mind: If you simply changed your mind about a game and opened it, you are unlikely to receive a full refund. In some rare cases, a seller may charge a 100% restocking fee, particularly if the game is not returned in its original, pristine condition. The crucial point here is that you must be returning the game simply because you have changed your mind, not because it is defective.
- Seller Discretion: The specific terms of the return often depend on the individual seller if the item was not sold directly by Amazon. Always review the seller’s return policy before purchasing, especially from third-party sellers.
Digital Games: A Different Ballgame
No Returns Typically
The landscape of digital game returns is very different from physical copies. Unless otherwise specified, games, software downloads, and purchases from the Amazon Appstore, the Amazon Digital Music store, the Amazon Luna store, or the Amazon Video store are generally not returnable after purchase. This policy is standard for digital content across many online platforms.
Exceptions
- Amazon Games: After release, all games developed and/or published by Amazon Games and purchased from Amazon are non-returnable and non-refundable. This includes digital items purchased or unlocked through in-game stores.
- Steam Games: If you purchased a Steam game through Amazon, the game is subject to Steam’s Refund Policy, not Amazon’s. This policy usually requires that the game has been played for less than two hours, and it has been purchased within the last 14 days. This can be a complex process, and you will often have to request the refund through the Steam platform itself, rather than through Amazon.
Accidental Purchases
If you’ve made an accidental digital purchase, there is a process:
- Amazon Prime Video: For accidental or unwanted Prime Video purchases, go to “Your Orders,” locate the purchase, and select “Cancel Your Order.” You’ll be asked to provide a reason, and if the purchase has not been used, you are typically refunded.
- In-App Purchases: To request a refund for an in-app purchase on Android devices, you need to go through the Google Play Store app, select the relevant purchase, and use the “Refund” button.
How To Avoid Restocking Fees and Return Hassles
30-Day Rule for Original Condition
The best way to avoid restocking fees is to ensure the game is returned within 30 days of purchase and in its original, saleable condition. For physical games, this means unopened and with all seals intact.
Check Return Policies
Always check the specific return policy before making a purchase, especially when buying from third-party sellers on Amazon. This will help you understand the conditions for return and if any fees will be applicable.
Understand Return Reasons
Be clear and accurate when specifying the reason for return. Return reasons such as “defective” are processed differently than “changed my mind.”
Digital Purchases: Double Check Before Committing
With digital games typically not returnable, it’s essential to double-check your selections before clicking the purchase button. If in doubt, review gameplay trailers or demos where available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I return a game if I don’t like it?
If the game is unopened and in its original packaging, you can likely return it within 30 days for a full refund. However, if the game has been opened, you may not get a full refund and could potentially be subject to a restocking fee. If you are returning a game simply because you have changed your mind, and it has been opened, it is possible for the retailer to charge a 100% restocking fee.
2. What if my game is defective?
If your game is defective, you should be able to return it for a replacement or full refund. This typically applies regardless of whether the game packaging has been opened.
3. Can I return a digital game I bought on Amazon?
Generally, no. Digital games purchased from the Amazon Appstore, Digital Music Store, Luna Store, and Video Store are usually not returnable once purchased. There are some exceptions with video content from Amazon.
4. How do I cancel an accidental Prime Video purchase?
Go to “Your Orders,” find the purchase, and select “Cancel Your Order.” You will need to select the reason for the cancellation and ensure the content has not been used.
5. What happens if I return a game and it’s not in perfect condition?
If the returned game is damaged or not in its original condition, the seller might charge a restocking fee, or potentially refuse the return altogether.
6. How long do I have to return an Amazon purchase?
The standard return window for most items on Amazon is 30 days from the date of purchase.
7. Can I return something I bought from a third-party seller?
Yes, but policies may differ. Always review the third-party seller’s return policy before buying.
8. What is a restocking fee?
A restocking fee is a charge to cover the cost of processing returned items. If a customer opens the packaging on a game and then tries to return it simply because they have changed their mind, then a 100% restocking fee can be charged.
9. How do I avoid restocking fees on Amazon?
Ensure that the item is returned in the original condition and within the 30-day return window.
10. If I use a Prime Gaming game, can I return it?
No, you can’t return claimed Prime Gaming games. They are yours to keep. However, if you cancel your Amazon Prime subscription, you will not be able to claim new games.
11. Can I return a Steam game bought on Amazon?
You would need to refer to the Steam refund policy. Amazon is not able to refund you for Steam purchases. The usual Steam refund policy is a full refund within 14 days and less than 2 hours of playtime.
12. What happens if I return the wrong item on Amazon?
Amazon may investigate the return. If it’s deemed a mistake, you might receive a refund or replacement. However, intentionally returning the wrong item can have serious consequences, including account suspension.
13. Can Amazon refuse returns?
Yes, Amazon can refuse returns if they believe a customer is abusing the return policy, for example, a consistently high rate of returns. Amazon has begun putting “frequently returned item” badges on certain products with high rates of return, encouraging shoppers to check product details.
14. Can I cancel an Amazon order after it has been made?
You can cancel an order if it has not yet entered the shipping process.
15. What happens to my game library if I cancel my Prime membership?
You will be able to play any games you have previously claimed through your Prime Gaming membership. You will not be able to claim new games without an active subscription.
Conclusion
Returning a game on Amazon isn’t always black and white. Understanding the difference between physical and digital games, unopened versus opened packaging, and the reasons for return is crucial. Always check specific return policies, act within the 30-day window, and take care when making a purchase. By following these guidelines, you can navigate the complexities of Amazon’s return process with ease.