Do Game Pre-Orders Take Money? A Comprehensive Guide
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The question of whether or not game pre-orders take money is a common one, especially given the varying policies across different platforms and retailers. The short answer is yes, eventually, but the when and how much depends significantly on where you are pre-ordering from and what payment method you use. Let’s dive into the specifics to clear up any confusion.
How Pre-Order Charges Work
The fundamental concept of a pre-order is to reserve a copy of a game before its official release. This process typically involves a few stages, which can differ by platform and payment method:
Initial Authorization
When you place a pre-order, most retailers, such as Amazon and GameStop, will initiate a pre-authorization on your chosen payment method. This is not a charge but rather a temporary hold on funds to verify that the payment method is valid and has sufficient funds. Think of it as a “heads-up” to your bank. The actual amount is not deducted at this stage.
Charge Timing
The critical part of a pre-order is when your account will be charged. This varies widely:
- Credit/Debit Cards: Typically, retailers will charge your credit or debit card only when the game is ready to ship or a certain number of days before the release. This delay allows for pre-order cancellations if needed. For instance, Amazon generally charges a few days before shipment, while others may charge up to 10 days before release for digital or physical copies.
- Digital Pre-Orders (PlayStation Store, etc.): Digital storefronts often charge closer to the release date, usually around 7-14 days before. These systems often initiate the payment process, including preloading of the game onto your device before the official launch. This preloading allows you to begin playing as soon as the game releases. However, if payment fails, your pre-order will be cancelled.
- Account Balances: If you use an account balance or gift card balance, the funds are often deducted immediately upon placing the pre-order. This is different from credit/debit card pre-orders.
- Split Payments: If you use a split payment (a combination of account balance and credit card), the account balance will likely be deducted immediately, and the remaining amount will be charged to your card as usual when the game is ready to ship or near the release date.
Price Guarantees and Lower Prices
Some retailers offer price guarantees. For example, some stores will charge the lower price between the time you pre-order and the time the item is shipped. This means if a game you pre-ordered goes on sale before release, you’ll be charged the sale price, which is a great advantage of pre-ordering.
Understanding the Fine Print
It’s crucial to carefully read the terms and conditions when placing a pre-order. Each retailer or digital platform has its own specific policies regarding when charges are processed and whether price guarantees exist. This due diligence can prevent surprises on your bank statement.
Why Do People Pre-Order Games?
Despite some potential drawbacks, people pre-order games for several reasons:
- Guaranteed Copy: Pre-ordering often guarantees that you’ll receive a copy of the game upon release, avoiding potential shortages.
- Pre-Order Bonuses: Many games come with pre-order incentives, like exclusive in-game items, early access, or special editions.
- Convenience: Pre-ordering ensures that the game is ready to play on release day without the need to purchase it then.
- Early Access: Sometimes pre-ordering grants early access to games, allowing you to start playing before the general public.
The Downside of Pre-Ordering
While there are advantages, pre-ordering does come with some potential disadvantages:
- Unfinished Games: Pre-ordering can lead to getting games that are still buggy or not entirely polished on release, as developers are still working to fix issues.
- Reviews: Pre-ordering before the release means you’re purchasing without the benefit of reviews, potentially investing in a game that doesn’t live up to expectations.
- Price Drops: Pre-ordered games may become cheaper soon after release, resulting in overpayment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Game Pre-Orders
Here are some common questions about game pre-orders to further help clarify the process:
1. Do all pre-orders require immediate payment?
No, most retailers and digital storefronts do not charge immediately for pre-orders with a credit or debit card. They typically place a pre-authorization to verify funds and then charge when the item ships or closer to release. Account balances are often charged immediately though.
2. Can I cancel my pre-order?
Yes, generally you can cancel a pre-order before it is charged. The cancellation window typically closes 7-10 days before the release date depending on the retailer and the product.
3. Does Amazon charge for pre-orders immediately?
No, Amazon doesn’t charge immediately. Amazon will pre-authorize your card when you pre-order but will only charge your credit card a few days before the item ships.
4. What if I use a gift card or account balance?
If you use a gift card or account balance, the funds are usually deducted immediately upon pre-ordering the game.
5. What happens if the game price drops after I pre-order?
Some retailers offer a price guarantee, which ensures you will be charged the lower price if the game’s price decreases before release.
6. When am I charged for digital pre-orders on PlayStation Store or Xbox?
Digital storefronts like PlayStation Store and Xbox will usually charge around 7-14 days before the game’s release date, initiating the download process and readying it to be played at launch.
7. What is a pre-authorization?
A pre-authorization is a temporary hold on funds to verify the payment method and ensure sufficient balance. It’s not an actual charge, but it will reduce your available balance until the charge is processed or the hold is released.
8. Can I use a split payment method for pre-orders?
Yes, many retailers allow you to use a combination of account balance and credit card. The account balance is typically taken immediately, and the remaining amount is charged closer to the release date.
9. What if my payment fails for a digital pre-order?
If your payment fails for a digital pre-order, it will likely be cancelled. Ensure that the payment method on file is up-to-date with sufficient funds.
10. Can I play the game immediately after pre-ordering?
No, you can’t play a pre-ordered game until its official release date. Physical copies are usually shipped on or around the release date, and digital preloads will not be playable until the official release time.
11. Are pre-order bonuses worth it?
Whether or not pre-order bonuses are worth it depends on individual preferences. They are usually exclusive to pre-orders, but if they are in-game cosmetic items they might not be valuable for everyone.
12. Is pre-ordering a good idea?
Pre-ordering can be convenient if you want to secure a copy on release. However, it’s better to wait for reviews if you are unsure about a game’s quality, to avoid purchasing something that may be buggy or disappointing.
13. What happens when you pre-order a game physically?
If you pre-order a physical copy of the game, it will be shipped to you around the release date. If you do get it early, you still won’t be able to play until the game’s release date.
14. Why do stores offer pre-orders?
Stores offer pre-orders to gauge demand, secure sales, and ensure customers receive products promptly on release.
15. What if I cancel an Amazon pre-order?
If you cancel an Amazon pre-order, you won’t be charged for the item and any pre-authorization hold will be released by your bank. If you were already charged you should receive a refund.
Conclusion
In summary, game pre-orders generally do not take money immediately if you use a credit or debit card, instead charging you closer to the release or shipping date. However, there are exceptions, particularly with account balances. To be safe, always confirm the terms of the specific retailer or platform to avoid misunderstandings. Understanding these rules will empower you to pre-order with confidence and ensure you get your desired games as intended.