Will GameStop Give You Games Early? Unveiling the Truth About Early Access
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The burning question on every gamer’s mind: Can you snag a highly anticipated title before its official release date through GameStop? The short answer is: sometimes, but it’s not guaranteed. While GameStop doesn’t routinely break street dates, there are specific scenarios where you might get your hands on a game a little earlier than the masses. This article will explore those possibilities, dive into the intricacies of GameStop pre-orders, and answer your frequently asked questions about early access.
Understanding Midnight Launches and Early Pick-ups
The Midnight Launch Exception
One of the most common ways to potentially get a game early from GameStop is through a midnight launch. These aren’t standard practice for every title, but for major releases, GameStop stores often host special events that allow customers to pick up their pre-ordered games right at midnight.
- Confirmation is Key: GameStop usually contacts pre-order customers a day or two before release to confirm if a midnight launch will take place. It’s crucial to be aware that not every game will have this option.
- Early Check-in Required: Even with a midnight launch, you can’t just waltz in at 11:59 PM. You typically need to check in at the store earlier in the day to secure your place in line. Often, the doors will be locked, and customers will form a line outside in the hours leading up to midnight.
- Midnight Is Not Early Morning: Remember, a midnight release means you can pick up your game the night before the official release date, not on the morning of release.
What if there’s no Midnight Launch?
If a midnight launch isn’t on the cards, then unfortunately, you’ll need to wait until the store opens on the official release date to pick up your pre-ordered copy. It’s best to check the store’s hours of operation for the specific location you’ll be visiting.
The Pre-Order Process: What You Need to Know
Pre-ordering: Securing Your Copy
GameStop allows customers to pre-order games weeks or even months in advance of their release. This ensures you get a copy on the day of launch, especially for highly anticipated titles where stock may be limited. You can pre-order online or in-store, with a minimum deposit of $5 required to secure your reservation.
Pre-Orders and Early Shipping
The general consensus is that pre-ordering does not guarantee early delivery of games from GameStop. Although they process orders and can authorize credit cards up to 10 days prior to the release, this is to ensure a smooth transaction and delivery process on the official launch date, not to provide games early.
While some companies may ship pre-orders a little ahead of time, GameStop doesn’t follow that method. The goal is to have the games ready for you to pick up on, or sometimes slightly before with a midnight release, the release date.
In-Store Pick-Up vs. Shipping
- In-Store Pick-up: Choosing this option usually means you collect your game in person on or after release day. It’s the most popular method for gamers eager to play immediately, and allows for early access opportunities if a midnight launch is planned.
- Shipping: If you opt to have your pre-ordered game shipped, keep in mind that standard shipping usually involves a processing time of 1 business day and 2 business days for delivery after that. To guarantee your game arrives on launch day through delivery, you’ll likely need to pay extra for 1-day shipping, if it is an option.
Pre-Order Holds and Availability
How Long Does GameStop Hold Pre-Orders?
GameStop typically holds pre-ordered games for only 48 hours after the release date. After this period, the game will usually be put on the shelf for general sale. However, some stores may be lenient, especially if you have fully paid for your order. It’s always best to contact the specific store if you anticipate needing a longer holding period.
What if you don’t pick up your pre-order?
If you don’t pick up your pre-ordered game within the given hold time, the reserved copy will be released to other customers. Your deposit will stay on your account and can be used towards another preorder. You can usually get a refund using the original method of payment as well.
Pre-Order Cancellation
GameStop doesn’t charge your credit card until roughly 5 days before release. Until that point, you can usually cancel your pre-order online with no issues.
Additional Points to Consider
- Early Game Availability to GameStop: GameStop often receives new game releases a week or two before the official release date. This is done to ensure they are prepared for launch day. However, this doesn’t mean the games are for sale at this time. They’re merely in the warehouse.
- New Games are Sealed: Games from GameStop are brand new and should arrive sealed. If you receive an unsealed game, contact the store for assistance.
- Pricing: Pre-ordering usually does not result in price differences. The pre-order price is almost always the same price upon release. However, deals and promotions can still occur on either end. Waiting for a sale after release is always an option if you’re willing to be patient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does pre-ordering guarantee I’ll get the game early?
No, pre-ordering does not guarantee early access to a game. It mainly ensures you’ll have a copy on or after the official release date and may provide early access opportunities if midnight launches are held.
2. Do all GameStop locations do midnight releases?
No, midnight launches are not standard for all game releases. GameStop typically only hosts midnight launches for big, highly anticipated games. They will contact customers a day or two in advance if one will be held.
3. What do I need to do to attend a midnight launch?
You need to check in at the store earlier in the day of the launch. The exact time to check-in varies, but showing up a few hours before midnight is usually a safe bet.
4. If I choose to have my game shipped, when will I receive it?
Shipping usually takes around 2 business days after the order is processed, which can take 1 business day. For release date delivery, you will likely need to pay extra for one day shipping, if that is an available option.
5. How early can I pre-order a game?
Most games can be pre-ordered weeks, and sometimes months, in advance of their expected release date.
6. What is the minimum I need to pay for a pre-order?
The minimum you need to pay for a pre-order at GameStop is $5.
7. How long will GameStop hold my pre-ordered game?
GameStop usually holds a pre-ordered game for 48 hours after its release date, though stores may be more flexible if you have fully paid.
8. Can I pick up my pre-ordered game early if I fully pay it off?
While paying in full can give you some flexibility for pickup time, it does not usually allow you to get your game before the official release day, unless there is a midnight launch.
9. Can I cancel a pre-order at GameStop?
Yes, you can cancel your pre-order up until about 5 days before the game’s release, before your credit card is charged.
10. What if I don’t pick up my pre-ordered game?
The money paid toward the pre-order will remain as a credit on your account, and the copy of the game will be made available for sale.
11. Is it cheaper to pre-order a game?
In most cases, the pre-order price and the release day price will be the same. Sales will not typically affect pre-order prices.
12. Does GameStop price match on pre-orders?
GameStop’s policies on price matching pre-orders can vary, so it’s always best to check with your local store.
13. Can I have someone else pick up my pre-order for me?
GameStop’s policies on third-party pick-ups vary, so it’s best to ask the store directly.
14. How do I know if my local GameStop is doing a midnight release?
GameStop typically contacts you directly a day or two before release if they are planning a midnight launch. You can also call your local store.
15. Is it better to pre-order a game or wait for it to be released?
Pre-ordering guarantees a copy on release and potentially early access via midnight launches. Waiting for reviews and post-release patches is beneficial, but you might face initial stock issues. It really depends on your priorities.
Conclusion
While GameStop doesn’t offer guaranteed early access to games, midnight launches are the most common way to play a game slightly ahead of release day. If you’re keen on potentially getting a new game a little early, keep an eye out for announcements of midnight launches and always confirm with your local GameStop store about the specifics. Otherwise, you can expect to pick up your game on the official release day during regular store hours. In the end, pre-ordering guarantees you’ll have a copy of the game you want and gives you a head start on day-one play.