What Does Pre-Ordering a Game Do? A Gamer’s Guide
Pre-ordering a game is essentially a reservation you make with a retailer or digital storefront to guarantee you’ll receive a copy of the game when it’s released. It’s a way of saying, “I’m definitely buying this, put my name on one!” Beyond that simple concept, pre-ordering impacts consumers, retailers, and publishers in various ways, with a mix of potential benefits and drawbacks that every gamer should understand before clicking that “pre-order” button.
The Core Benefits and Motivations Behind Pre-Ordering
For the consumer, pre-ordering provides assurance. In the age of digital downloads, this might seem less critical, but for collectors or those with slower internet connections who prefer a physical copy, it ensures they aren’t left scrambling on launch day. Pre-ordering also often unlocks exclusive content, such as in-game items, early access to beta versions, or even discounts on the game itself. These bonuses are a significant driver for many gamers.
For retailers, pre-orders are a valuable tool for forecasting demand and securing a guaranteed revenue stream. They provide insight into how much stock to order, minimizing the risk of overstocking or missing out on potential sales.
Publishers benefit from pre-orders by gauging overall interest in their game. This helps them refine marketing strategies, optimize server infrastructure (for online games), and manage their inventory costs more efficiently. A strong pre-order showing can also generate hype and positive press, further boosting sales.
However, it is important to remember that pre-ordering doesn’t always translate to guaranteed quality, and there are risks involved. Let’s delve deeper with some frequently asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pre-Ordering Games
1. When do I get charged for a pre-ordered game?
Typically, you won’t be charged immediately. Many digital storefronts, like PlayStation Network or Xbox Marketplace, place an authorization hold on your account shortly before the game’s release. This hold ensures you have sufficient funds, but the actual charge usually occurs a few days before or on the release date. Physical retailers might have different policies, some requiring a deposit upfront and the balance upon release. Always check the specific store’s policy before pre-ordering.
2. Can I cancel a pre-order?
Yes, in most cases, you can cancel a pre-order. The specific policies vary depending on the retailer or platform, but generally, you can cancel anytime before the game is released and your payment is processed. Digital storefronts usually allow cancellations even after the game is downloaded (but not played) within a certain timeframe. Always review the cancellation policy before pre-ordering.
3. Is it cheaper to pre-order a game, or buy it after release?
There’s no hard and fast rule. Sometimes, pre-order bonuses effectively make the game cheaper in the long run, especially if you value the included in-game content or discounts. However, it’s also common for games to drop in price a few weeks or months after release, especially if they receive mixed reviews or sales are slow. It’s a gamble; pre-ordering is about guaranteed access and potential bonuses, while waiting might save you money.
4. Do pre-ordered games automatically download?
On most digital platforms, yes, you can enable automatic downloads for pre-ordered games. This means the game will download to your console or PC in the days leading up to release, so you can start playing as soon as it unlocks. Make sure you have enough storage space!
5. What happens if I pre-order a game and then it gets delayed?
If a pre-ordered game gets delayed, you’ll typically receive a notification from the retailer or platform. You’ll usually have the option to keep your pre-order, which will be automatically updated with the new release date, or cancel it for a full refund.
6. Does pre-ordering a game give me early access?
Sometimes, but not always. Early access is a specific pre-order bonus offered by some publishers. If early access is included, it will be clearly advertised as part of the pre-order package. Don’t assume you’ll get early access just because you pre-order; always check the details.
7. What’s the difference between pre-ordering and Early Access?
Pre-ordering is paying for a game before it’s released to guarantee a copy and potentially receive bonuses. Early Access is buying and playing a game that is still in development, often an alpha or beta version. With Early Access, you’re essentially a paid tester, providing feedback to the developers. Pre-ordering typically doesn’t involve playing an unfinished version of the game.
8. Do pre-orders guarantee a physical copy of the game?
If you pre-order a physical copy from a retailer, it guarantees that they will have a copy reserved for you when the game is released, assuming they haven’t oversold their allocation. However, issues can still arise, such as shipping delays or stock shortages. Pre-ordering far in advance is generally safer.
9. What are the disadvantages of pre-ordering a game?
The biggest disadvantage is the risk of disappointment. You’re buying a product based on marketing materials and trailers, and the final game might not live up to your expectations. You also risk paying full price for a game that might be cheaper later on. Finally, there are rare instances where pre-order bonuses end up being widely available after release, diminishing their value.
10. What happens if the game I pre-ordered is out of stock on release day?
This is rare, especially with digital pre-orders. However, if you pre-ordered a physical copy, there’s a slight chance the retailer could oversell their allocation. In this case, they’ll usually offer a refund or try to fulfill your order as soon as possible. Pre-ordering well in advance minimizes this risk.
11. Is it worth pre-ordering a game for the bonus content?
Whether the bonus content is worth it is a matter of personal preference. Consider if you genuinely value the included in-game items, skins, or other perks. If you wouldn’t normally pay extra for these items, pre-ordering solely for the bonuses might not be worthwhile. Look up reviews of the bonus content to decide whether it is for you or not.
12. Can I return a pre-ordered game if I don’t like it?
Return policies vary depending on whether you bought a physical or digital copy. Physical copies can usually be returned to the retailer within a certain timeframe, provided they’re in good condition. Digital copies are generally non-refundable once downloaded, unless there are specific issues with the game itself.
13. How do I find out about pre-order bonuses?
Retailers and digital storefronts usually prominently display pre-order bonuses on the game’s product page. You can also find information on gaming news websites, forums, and social media. Always compare pre-order bonuses across different retailers to find the best deal.
14. What does “Day One Edition” or “Special Edition” mean when pre-ordering?
These editions often include exclusive content or physical items, such as art books, soundtracks, or collectible figurines, in addition to the base game. They’re typically more expensive than the standard edition and are aimed at hardcore fans and collectors.
15. How can I make a more informed decision about pre-ordering?
Do your research! Watch gameplay videos, read previews and reviews from trusted sources, and consider the developer’s track record. Don’t be swayed solely by marketing hype. If you’re unsure, consider waiting for the game to release and reading reviews from players before making a purchase. Many organizations, such as the Games Learning Society, are studying the engagement and learning opportunities in games. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about the educational aspects of gaming and make informed decisions about the games you play.
The Bottom Line
Pre-ordering a game is a personal decision. It offers convenience, guaranteed access, and potential bonuses, but it also carries the risk of disappointment. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, do your research, and choose wisely. Happy gaming!