Gamestop Can Go Shaq-Fu Themselves

[Pootie Thang]

I've had it with them. So I bought the last "NEW" copy of Kameo. Anyways, they gave me a open copy and I decided that I'd rather get another game because I would never play this. I didn't even put it in my Xbox once. So I tried to exchange it since I bought it new, and they said they can't since it was USED. So instead of getting $29.99 credit that I paid for it, I can only take $12 store credit.

[pimp tyranny]

nah dude, tell 'em they gave it to you open. be resolute man, they know what they do with display copies. no way you should've taken credit.

[Pootie Thang]

Well I didn't take the credit. I even told them they gave it to me that way. Because the gamestop stickers are on the box and they still say NEW. Anyways, I contacted corporate and they're having the district manager call me by Friday. I mean how can you sell me a game that you essentially consider USED as NEW, then now allow me to exchange it because it's "USED". If they consider it USED then why sell it to me in the first place as NEW?

[maddfrog]

That's actually why I stopped buying "new" stuff from them. I don't see why I have to pay for something new when the game has been taken out of it already. If it doesn't have plastic around it, then its not new. Even if its just a display copy and hasn't been played.

[Roufuss]

Well I didn't take the credit. I even told them they gave it to me that way. Because the gamestop stickers are on the box and they still say NEW. Anyways, I contacted corporate and they're having the district manager call me by Friday. I mean how can you sell me a game that you essentially consider USED as NEW, then now allow me to exchange it because it's "USED". If they consider it USED then why sell it to me in the first place as NEW?

I would love to see the GS employees on this forum try to explain this one.

[RandyTsai]

Next time you return something, just say it didn't work. It makes everything a lot easier.

[WAJedi]

Next time you return something, just say it didn't work. It makes everything a lot easier.

Except that they will just give you another copy of the same game.

[jimbodan]

There's a real simple solution to have this never happen to anyone.

DON'T BUY THEIR GUTTED COPIES

There.

Next time they try to sell you a used gutted copy as new, just don't buy it. If everyone followed that principle Gamestop would have to change their policy and no one would get stuck in a situation similar to the OP's. Sadly people won't stop buying these gutted copies :(

[TheBlueWizard]

That's actually why I stopped buying "new" stuff from them. I don't see why I have to pay for something new when the game has been taken out of it already. If it doesn't have plastic around it, then its not new. Even if its just a display copy and hasn't been played.

I've had this happen to me several times. I go to pick up a game, they want to pawn the last "new" one on me and I refuse. They get annoyed, but the "I'll just pick it up at Wal-mart usually works pretty good. Not that I shop at Wal-mart, but you get the point.

The worst was last summer, they had a sale on Bard's Tale for XBox. My store didn't have it, but they got it sent from another store. They called when it came in and everything. I went the same day to pick it up and they had already gutted it and put it on the shelf. I was pretty annoyed.

TBW

[RedComet]

Wouldn't the receipt show it as a new game?

[RandyTsai]

Except that they will just give you another copy of the same game.

It was their last copy so there are no more copies. This works better with used games. Play it for a week and return it and say it doesn't work. You can do it 3 times with one receipt.

[Pancake Rabbit]

Business as usual.

[botticus]

I would love to see the GS employees on this forum try to explain this one.
Yeah, that's always been my problem with this tactic that no one has ever been able to explain to my satisfaction. Because clearly we know that buyer's remorse never occurs, requiring someone to return a game. :roll:

[anotherpoorgamer]

I've never seen a situation like this before with the whole concept of not allowing someone to get a full credit refund since it was an unsealed new game. I guess now I must never buy a new game and change my mind when I go to Gamestop/EBgames. OP you should have kept that game instead of taking the loss, but I guess we will see what the outcome will be soon. Now I have another reason not to buy new copies of games from GS/EB!

[dastly75]

Wouldn't the receipt show it as a new game?

yeah but it wouldnt have the plastic wrap on it anymore making it appear used although the "it didn't work" excuse could probably fly in this case

[CocheseUGA]

Tagged to see the 'explanations.'

[arthurRWD]

You've got the upper hand in this one I think. Raise immortal death with the DM, and tell him if he wants this to never be a problem again, stop selling gutted copies.

And from now on, get your new stuff at Rhino or CC

[GizmoGC]

Since I have never worked for GS, I'm sure the rules are different.
The OP is omitting some details regarding the transaction.

When you bought the 'new' game, was it shrinkwrapped?
Did they shrinkwrap it for you?
Did they put a sticker over the case so you would have to 'break it' to get the disc out?
Did you present them with the reciept?
When did you buy the game and then decide to return it?

By not giving us these details its hard to judge anything. Just because the case says 'New' does not mean it wasn't a previous 'new' copy that you decided to return 3 months after playing it.

[GizmoGC]

Tagged to see the 'explanations.'

You're not going to get any. Its simply gonna be another 'they sell used copies as new!!!!! omg!!!!!'

[schuerm26]

Yeah don't they put that little plastic baggie around it? Therefore if it is still in that it hasn't been opened. I thought i had seen them do that before.

[CocheseUGA]

Yeah don't they put that little plastic baggie around it? Therefore if it is still in that it hasn't been opened. I thought i had seen them do that before.

Wha??

If it's a gutted display copy, it doesn't need to be retail. Period. Every other store gives you an open box item discount where the manuf's warranty is usually still in effect. If EB/GS did this, I think the complaints would stop. If it's new, it needs to be in the same condition that it came from the factory. Period. Otherwise, it's not 'new.'

[zebbers]

If you know how to read you can probably infer that:
"Open" meant unshrinkwrapped.
And "never put in xbox" meant never opened.

I may be wrong but then again I prolly have a higher percentage of being more right than your You're not going to get any. Its simply gonna be another 'they sell used copies as new!!!!! omg!!!!!'

As that is a fact: They sell opened copies as new. I don't think there is any way to skirt around that issue? Whether or not they are "used" is debatable, but I believe the OP that he got sold an opened copy from the drawer and I believe that they wouldn't take it back.

[Z-Saber]

Yeah don't they put that little plastic baggie around it? Therefore if it is still in that it hasn't been opened. I thought i had seen them do that before.I just bought a gutted Super Mario Sunshine last week (yes, I know the used ones were on sale, don't ask) and they did no sort of wrapping, stickering, plastic bagging ('cept for the normal bag stuff) that I know of. Plain ol' gutted goodness.

[GizmoGC]

If you know how to read you can probably infer that:
"Open" meant unshrinkwrapped.
And "never put in xbox" meant never opened.

I may be wrong but then again I prolly have a higher percentage of being more right than your

As that is a fact: They sell opened copies as new. I don't think there is any way to skirt around that issue? Whether or not they are "used" is debatable, but I believe the OP that he got sold an opened copy from the drawer and I believe that they wouldn't take it back.

Ok. AGAIN

Open does not always mean 'no shrinkwrap'. Atleast not in the GS/EB world (New is either shrinkwrapped or a gutted new copy), so don't assume so here either.

'Never put in Xbox' does not mean he did not break the seal/take off the shrinkwrap, and then decide to return it.

You are already siding with him with no further information then what he is providing (Which is minimal, and if I don't ask the questions someone else will)?

Wait till he responds.

[Quackzilla]

I've had it with them. So I bought the last "NEW" copy of Kameo. Anyways, they gave me a open copy and I decided that I'd rather get another game because I would never play this. I didn't even put it in my Xbox once. So I tried to exchange it since I bought it new, and they said they can't since it was USED. So instead of getting $29.99 credit that I paid for it, I can only take $12 store credit.
So you just gave them $18 for nothing?

At least you could have sold it on ebay instead of rolling over like a little bitch!

[Z-Saber]

Open does not always mean 'no shrinkwrap'. Atleast not in the GS/EB world (New is either shrinkwrapped or a gutted new copy), so don't assume so here either.

'Never put in Xbox' does not mean he did not break the seal/take off the shrinkwrap, and then decide to return it.

You are already siding with him with no further information then what he is providing (Which is minimal, and if I don't ask the questions someone else will)?

Wait till he responds.I have a quick question then. If open doesn't always mean no shrinkwrap, what does it mean. If it has shrinkwrapped, it's new. If it doesn't have shrinkwrapped, but it's not open... how is that so? The little sticker things? Not all games have those and the employees (as far as I know) don't put those on new games, just used ones.

EDIT: I'm not correcting my mistakes, but dang, there are tons!

[GizmoGC]

I have a quick question then. If open doesn't always mean no shrinkwrap, what does it mean. If it has shrinkwrapped, it's new. If it doesn't have shrinkwrapped, but it's not open... how is that so? The little sticker things? Not all games have those and the employees (as far as I know) don't put those on new games, just used ones.

With the 'new' gutted copies...its a hit and miss between stores and employees.

Some will sell you a 'new' copy as-is. Meaning the disc goes in the case and out you go.

Some will shrinkwrap it for you. Sometimes this is done right away (without you asking), sometimes they ask. This is what normally happens to me if I buy a 'new' game from them. I say no as I know that when I am buying something I plan on playing it. I don't contemplate the decision of whether or not I plan on playing it.

Some will put a big sticker over the side of the case so if you break that seal, it acts as if you just took the shrinkwrap off of it.

You mentioned them putting stickers over the used games well...I think they stopped that practice a few years ago when they stopped there 'Return a used game within 7 days for any reason' policy. I'm sure some stores still do it, but I havn't had it done to me in 2-3 years of buying at both stores.

[Z-Saber]

With the 'new' gutted copies...its a hit and miss between stores and employees.

Some will sell you a 'new' copy as-is. Meaning the disc goes in the case and out you go.

Some will shrinkwrap it for you. Sometimes this is done right away (without you asking), sometimes they ask. This is what normally happens to me if I buy a 'new' game from them. I say no as I know that when I am buying something I plan on playing it. I don't contemplate the decision of whether or not I plan on playing it.

Some will put a big sticker over the side of the case so if you break that seal, it acts as if you just took the shrinkwrap off of it.

You mentioned them putting stickers over the used games well...I think they stopped that practice a few years ago when they stopped there 'Return a used game within 7 days for any reason' policy. I'm sure some stores still do it, but I havn't had it done to me in 2-3 years of buying at both stores.None of the GS/EB stores in my area (or in Tallahassee 'cuz I went to some stores there) have EVER shrinkwrapped anything. I don't recall stickers on new games either. They do, however, still put stickers on used games and they only started doing that in the last couple years.

[zebbers]

Open does not always mean 'no shrinkwrap'. Atleast not in the GS/EB world (New is either shrinkwrapped or a gutted new copy), so don't assume so here either.

'Never put in Xbox' does not mean he did not break the seal/take off the shrinkwrap, and then decide to return it.



AGAIN. In this context, it is more likely that OPEN means just that, not shrinkwraped. And not put in xbox means not opened a shrinkwrap. OP doesn't sound like he is a moron, just someone that wants to return a product that is in the same condition he bought it in.

You MAY be right. I just said it is MORE LIKELY I am right.

[GizmoGC]

AGAIN. In this context, it is more likely that OPEN means just that, not shrinkwraped. And not put in xbox means not opened a shrinkwrap. OP doesn't sound like he is a moron, just someone that wants to return a product that is in the same condition he bought it in.

You MAY be right. I just said it is MORE LIKELY I am right.

Agreed. The OP left out way to many details to even try to start a discussion on this. Unfortunatly this thread will turn into another 'they sell used games as new' discussion, which we already have had to many of.

Just because you may be right in what he was trying to say, he hasn't said it. If he said exactly what he typed here to the DM, the DM will ask him some of the questions I posed above.

[anubis20]

When i bought need for speed most wanted black edition. He grabs the game from a drawer looks for the case then walks off and seals the damn thing right in front of me. He has the nerve to tell me its brand new. I opened it in front of him and what do you know??? It had scratches on it!!! They gave a me a discount. Took it back to a different store claiming it didnt work. Got a real BRAND NEW one.

[eau]

Did the OP buy it online? If it arrived "gutted", pretty much you have no ground to get a full refund. The most you can do is to walk into a GS B&M, say it didn't work and exchange it - they break out a factory sealed copy and open it in front of you - in which case you get a freshly opened copy (ie., never played before) but you're still stuck with the same game.

[Pootie Thang]

Since I have never worked for GS, I'm sure the rules are different.
The OP is omitting some details regarding the transaction.

When you bought the 'new' game, was it shrinkwrapped?
Did they shrinkwrap it for you?
Did they put a sticker over the case so you would have to 'break it' to get the disc out?
Did you present them with the reciept?
When did you buy the game and then decide to return it?

By not giving us these details its hard to judge anything. Just because the case says 'New' does not mean it wasn't a previous 'new' copy that you decided to return 3 months after playing it.

Bought it at the Gamestop across the street from my neighborhood. Anyways, there was no plastic wrap, shrinkwrap, or anything like that at all. It was open, no stickers closing the case. It was just like a used game with a "NEW" Price Sticker on the case. I bought the games on the 7th and tried to exchange it for another today since I have been busy all weekend long.

[GizmoGC]

Bought it at the Gamestop across the street from my neighborhood. Anyways, there was no plastic wrap, shrinkwrap, or anything like that at all. It was open, no stickers closing the case. It was just like a used game with a "NEW" Price Sticker on the case. I bought the games on the 7th and tried to exchange it for another today since I have been busy all weekend long.

Did you have the receipt? Did you try to return it to the same clerk that you bought it from? Unfortunatley, even if it has a NEW stickers on the case, it could have still be shrinkwrapped over by another clerk (Which you confirmed is not the case, however another employee may not know that). Since its been 4 days...its kinda iffy. I know I'd be pissed too if they wouldn't take it back...but I'm sure the DM will allow you too.

[RedvsBlue]

Did you have the receipt? Did you try to return it to the same clerk that you bought it from? Unfortunatley, even if it has a NEW stickers on the case, it could have still be shrinkwrapped over by another clerk (Which you confirmed is not the case, however another employee may not know that). Since its been 4 days...its kinda iffy. I know I'd be pissed too if they wouldn't take it back...but I'm sure the DM will allow you too.

Their return policy for new items is 7 days. He was still within their return period.

[GizmoGC]

Their return policy for new items is 7 days. He was still within their return period.

I'm not debating that at all. It was a game that was not sealed however, so if he wants to return it he will run into trouble, unfortunatly. Another reason to just say no to 'new' games.

[Z-Saber]

I think the whole discussion of it being shrinkwrapped and not shrinkwrapped and stickered or not stickered and getting the same clerk and having the receipt and going to the same store is all pretty retarded.

Basically, he paid money for their game and all of the rights to return it and be dissatisfied. They did not honor their part of the deal.

I can't imagine working there. If someone came to me with a receipt and a game they bought a few days earlier wanting to return it, I'd let them do it. I wouldn't ask if it was shrinkwrapped or stickered or which employee was it bought from and from what store.

I know we constantly bash EB/GS, but that merger was the absolutely worst thing that's happened to video game consumers as far as retail chains are concerned.

[kjauburn]

You've got the upper hand in this one I think. Raise immortal death with the DM, and tell him if he wants this to never be a problem again, stop selling gutted copies.

And from now on, get your new stuff at Rhino or CC

Are you kidding me Rhino normally has a single copy of every game and its a display copy. Don't get me wrong I love Rhino next to GS/EB, but I always seem to get a display copy there. Of course I use the trade 2 get 1 free and never actually but the game so I don't care. But if I am buying a new game Rhino/GS/EB etc. it should be sealed. Otherwise no thanks there is always a place across the street...

[RedvsBlue]

I'm not debating that at all. It was a game that was not sealed however, so if he wants to return it he will run into trouble, unfortunatly. Another reason to just say no to 'new' games.

You said it was "iffy" though. What's iffy about wanting to return an item well within the established and accepted return period?

Returning opened copies is the biggest flaw of the gutted games idea. There's no way to prove it either way. The stickers are a great idea but their use is VERY YMMV. Each store's use of them varies. Hell, I've had the same store use them one time and then not use them the next.

[GizmoGC]

I think the whole discussion of it being shrinkwrapped and not shrinkwrapped and stickered or not stickered and getting the same clerk and having the receipt and going to the same store is all pretty retarded.

Basically, he paid money for their game and all of the rights to return it and be dissatisfied. They did not honor their part of the deal.

I can't imagine working there. If someone came to me with a receipt and a game they bought a few days earlier wanting to return it, I'd let them do it. I wouldn't ask if it was shrinkwrapped or stickered or which employee was it bought from and from what store.

I know we constantly bash EB/GS, but that merger was the absolutely worst thing that's happened to video game consumers as far as retail chains are concerned.

So as an employee of a retail store you would not follow there rules?
If this had been a sealed BRAND NEW game that he wanted to return this wouldn't be an issue. However this is a 'new' game, and he IS having an issue. Regardless if he is in the right (which he is).

He wants to return a game.
No shrinkwrap on game.
Claims he bought it 'new'
No prood other then a 'NEW' sticker on the case (which could have been shrinkwrapped over)
He is having a problem.

Like I, and many others have said in everyone of these thread. DON'T BUY 'NEW' GAMES! Its that simple. Just say 'No Thanks' and buy it from Best Buy or Target. They are not twisting youre arms to make you buy it. We THINK if this happens enough, they might get the hint. However, since 9/10 customers could careless, it won't change.

[GizmoGC]

You said it was "iffy" though. What's iffy about wanting to return an item well within the established and accepted return period?

Returning opened copies is the biggest flaw of the gutted games idea. There's no way to prove it either way. The stickers are a great idea but their use is VERY YMMV. Each store's use of them varies. Hell, I've had the same store use them one time and then not use them the next.

I understand the return policy. Got it. 7 Days. Got it.
However he bought an 'new' game. Different employees/different stores have different meanings on what 'new' is. Like I said before, some stores shrinkwrap, some put a sticker on the case...etc. Its not uniformed, which is obviously a problem. But he was denied, and it sucks. He will have to either straighten it out with the manager, or with the DM. I am by no way defending EB/GS, but thats just how they work.

[Roufuss]

Their return policy for new items is 7 days. He was still within their return period.

When did it become 7 days? I could have sworn it was the standard 30.

Used games have a return policy of 7 days, no questions asked though.

[RedvsBlue]

When did it become 7 days? I could have sworn it was the standard 30.

Used games have a return policy of 7 days, no questions asked though.

Ha, your right. It is only 7 for used and 30 for new.

[Z-Saber]

So as an employee of a retail store you would not follow there rules?Hey, there's a reason I don't work at EB/GS. :lol:

[yukine]

This reminds me why I never buy "New" copies of games at EB/Gamestop, because most of the time, their used copies look new, and both don't have shrinkwrap. You really can't lose with used copies, used games FTW.

[CaoPi]

yea I bought something new but It was the last copy before. THey tend to shrink wrap it for me if I want to return it. But most of the times I say no and don't consider buying it since its a display copy.

[Kerig]

There is one very important issue that hasn't been brought up yet in this thread:

New Game Smell.

If EB/GS guts the game in advance, you will NOT get your New Game Smell that you paid for. I for one expect and enjoy my NGS on each and every new game I purchase. Even if it's a crappy $5 BB game that I may never play, I can at least have the satisfaction of NGS.

NGS = Pavlonian Consumer Satisfaction. If I buy new, it better smell.

(There is not a whiff of sarcasm or wit in the above post, I am dead serious about my NGS. If I don't get my fix, I consider the purchase a rip-off.)


(There is, however, a pun in the above notation about the above post)

[RedvsBlue]

There is one very important issue that hasn't been brought up yet in this thread:

New Game Smell.

If EB/GS guts the game in advance, you will NOT get your new game smell that you paid for. I for one expect and enjoy my NGS on each and every game I purchase. Even if it's a crappy $5 BB game that I may never play, I can at least have the satisfaction of NGS.

NGS = Pavlonian Consumer Satisfaction. If I buy new, it better smell.

(There is not a whiff of sarcasm or wit in the above post, I am dead serious about my NGS. If I don't get my fix, I consider the purchase a rip-off.)


(There is, however, a pun in the above notation about the above post)

I discovered today that there's no such thing as a new DVD+R smell... Wow, was that a whiff of something I'd never want to experience again.

New game smell is spectacular. Its one of the best reasons to keep a game sealed. Hell, having a bad day? Crack open one of your sealed games and sniff those problems away.

[Pootie Thang]

Did you have the receipt? Did you try to return it to the same clerk that you bought it from? Unfortunatley, even if it has a NEW stickers on the case, it could have still be shrinkwrapped over by another clerk (Which you confirmed is not the case, however another employee may not know that). Since its been 4 days...its kinda iffy. I know I'd be pissed too if they wouldn't take it back...but I'm sure the DM will allow you too.

I sure hope so, I always shop there. I always trade, buy, and pre-order from there. If this isn't resolved in the right manner, I won't shop there and that's just being honest. I live in too big a city, and I have many other options. I have never had anything like this happen before with them so that's why I am finally dissatisfied with them.

[Strell]

I discovered today that there's no such thing as a new DVD+R smell... Wow, was that a whiff of something I'd never want to experience again.

New game smell is spectacular. Its one of the best reasons to keep a game sealed. Hell, having a bad day? Crack open one of your sealed games and sniff those problems away.

I'm not the only one who does this. Thank God. Now the next time my gf calls me out on it, I'll point her to this thread.

Shit, for a while there I could different NGS based on what system you bought.

[Radioactive_Man]

I would love to see the GS employees on this forum try to explain this one.

When I sell a "gutted" copy I let people know that it's been opened. Put it into a bag that has a seal on it. If the person isn't a dick about it I give them a 10% off discount. Most people aren't dicks about it, it's just the ones who ask for a discount. If you ask me, you won't get it.

If I was the OP I wouldn't shop at GS again, that is some bullshit.

[Don Wuebos]

the only explanation i have, is that the employee you dealt with was a douche. I mean, when i sell a new game that's been gutted i always put that sticker on it and it's pretty easy to tell when it's been taken off. Personally, i hate buying games like that too.
If a customer brings a game back to me, to return or whatever im usually pretty cool about it, unless it's like...8 months past returning date or something along those lines.
Don't let them try to pull that though, most GM's are good people within the company, so you'll see the outcome will be to your liking.

[ig88vsbobafett]

Well were in the bashing EB/GS Mode i tryed buying Perfect Dark 0 when they had it on sale used for $19.99 and i pulled out my edge card that i F**** Paid for they wouldnt take the 10% off so i told them to stick it and left

We Should Start a Stick it to EB games and Game Stop Week where no one here buys any thing from them for an entire week

[Demolition Man]

I would love to see the GS employees on this forum try to explain this one.

I hope you aren't holding your breath in anticipation of an answer to that. :lol:

[Z-Saber]

We Should Start a Stick it to EB games and Game Stop Week where no one here buys any thing from them for an entire weekThat would interesting, though I think the only way to get the ball rolling would be involvement from Cheapy and a post on the main page. Thing is that's not a good way to rack up referals, now is it?

[CocheseUGA]

There is one very important issue that hasn't been brought up yet in this thread:

New Game Smell.



New Game Smell only ranks behind New Jeep Smell for me.

[yukine]

I'm not the only one who does this. Thank God. Now the next time my gf calls me out on it, I'll point her to this thread.

Shit, for a while there I could different NGS based on what system you bought.

Hmm... I've never smelled a new game, but it seems to be a popular thing to do. I feel so left out. :drool:

[friedram]

I'll only buy from them online- EB and GayStop stores them selves can go fuck themselves because of this shit. I'm with you man.

[yukine]

I'll only buy from them online- EB and GayStop stores them selves can go fuck themselves because of this shit. I'm with you man.

...GayStop? You're a clever one. ;)

[jkam]

There are so many problems with the way that Gamestops and EB games are run its crazy. I know how the converstation I'm going to have is going to go before I walk in. Do you want to pre-order this? Do you have a discount card? I really don't like going into their stores but sometimes they have some good deals so I put up with it. Luckily I have found a gamestop near my house that has some normal people working in it. As for the whole "NEW" game bullshit...if I see them grabbing a display copy I simply say OH its a display copy no thanks. I find that I'm giving it as a gift works well too.

[yukine]

There are so many problems with the way that Gamestops and EB games are run its crazy. I know how the converstation I'm going to have is going to go before I walk in. Do you want to pre-order this? Do you have a discount card? I really don't like going into their stores but sometimes they have some good deals so I put up with it. Luckily I have found a gamestop near my house that has some normal people working in it. As for the whole "NEW" game bullshit...if I see them grabbing a display copy I simply say OH its a display copy no thanks. I find that I'm giving it as a gift works well too.

Yeah, it can be like that at some stores. The GameStop stores that I go to have pretty cool employees, I haven't really ever been hassled. That's good you found a store that you like.

[CocheseUGA]

I find that I'm giving it as a gift works well too.

That's where the shrink wrapper comes in...'Hey, we can seal it up for you just like new. You lost the sale right there buddy. If it's 'just like new,' I won't be paying the 'actual new' price.

[eldad9]

So... OP, did you pay with a credit card?
If you did, your problem has a very simple solution. I'm not saying you have to call your CC company right away, but just mentioning to the store that it's the easiest thing in the world to contest the charge is likely to get them to do it themselves (if you do contest the charge, the store loses some money whether they're right or wrong).

[Vinny]

Email the district manager and mention the Better Business Bureau.

The same exact thing happened to me. I found a used copy of Ring of Red thinking it was rare for $17.99. So I take it up front and they tell me it was a new copy, and show me the sticker. I thought about it for a second and went ahead with it but asked if I could return it elsewhere (in case it wasn't rare). I take it home and find out it isn't worth crap so I take it back to my local GS where I'm told they can't accept it. But I explain to the manager there the story and he said he'd do it this one time.

I reported the store through gamestopfeedback.com and I get a call in 3 days and I tell the DM what happened and he said he'd take care of it personally.

I've complained using the Gamestop Feedback site before but never have I gotten a response until I mentioned the BBB.

[asianxcore]

you bought this game (Kameo) in person?

not to sound like a dick but if you noticed it wasn't shrinkwrapped when you bought it, why did you walk out with it? or even let them go through with the transaction. if you have the receipt though it should have the new price on there ($29.99), their used price I think is a couple dollars cheaper. I'm sure they can check their inventory to see if how many copies of the said game they have had in the last couple days.

also if the game was sealed/new, you'd have the price of the game on top of the shrinkwrap. the fact that the price is on the actual game, proves it was the last copy/display copy.

done done and done. :)

[Kuros]

I have a few simple words for you guys

If you don't like it... don't FUCKING shop there!

Christ, I'm glad I don't have you guys in my store. I'd go batshit insane.

[vietgurl]

Email the district manager and mention the Better Business Bureau.

The same exact thing happened to me. I found a used copy of Ring of Red thinking it was rare for $17.99. So I take it up front and they tell me it was a new copy, and show me the sticker. I thought about it for a second and went ahead with it but asked if I could return it elsewhere (in case it wasn't rare). I take it home and find out it isn't worth crap so I take it back to my local GS where I'm told they can't accept it. But I explain to the manager there the story and he said he'd do it this one time.

I reported the store through gamestopfeedback.com and I get a call in 3 days and I tell the DM what happened and he said he'd take care of it personally.

I've complained using the Gamestop Feedback site before but never have I gotten a response until I mentioned the BBB.


I'm sure he probably did nothing about it. It's not like the entire company as a whole is going to stop gutting games and selling them as new games. Calling the district manager does nothing; when I worked at EB, we used to get customer complaints all the time. We got them so much that once in awhile, the district manager actually checked up on them (most of the time he just ignored them) but as long as we had someone else verify that we didn't do anything wrong (we were all friends with each other at the store), he had no "proof" that we had broken the rules. As long as we didn't steal, we got away with so much... What are you going to expect from minimum wage employees?

[botticus]

I'm sure he probably did nothing about it. It's not like the entire company as a whole is going to stop gutting games and selling them as new games. Calling the district manager does nothing; when I worked at EB, we used to get customer complaints all the time. We got them so much that once in awhile, the district manager actually checked up on them (most of the time he just ignored them) but as long as we had someone else verify that we didn't do anything wrong (we were all friends with each other at the store), he had no "proof" that we had broken the rules. As long as we didn't steal, we got away with so much... What are you going to expect from minimum wage employees?
Well, I would imagine if a DM kept getting complaints about the same stuff about the same store or employee from different customers, something would be done. If not, EB is an awesome company to work for.

[CocheseUGA]

I have a few simple words for you guys

If you don't like it... don't FUCKING shop there!

Christ, I'm glad I don't have you guys in my store. I'd go batshit insane.

Interesting the total lack of explanation or even...'hey, that sucks, here's what you should do about it.' I'm not surprised.

[Kuros]

Interesting the total lack of explanation or even...'hey, that sucks, here's what you should do about it.' I'm not surprised.

How about you look down a couple of topics to the 276 post topic where I answer people's questions about GS huh? I know how it is to be on both sides of the counter, but some of you guys lack so much common sense that it hurts.

:roll:

[Strell]

Here, I'll explain.

GS thinks we're all out to rob them of cash. So if you were to buy a new game, play it, decide it sucks or something and return it, they think you'll come back the next day and pick it up used and save yourself five bucks. This includes defective games, games with improper images burned on them, games you beat quickly and want to get rid of, games that might be inappropriate, etc etc. Whateva. All GS cares about is that you bought it from them and oh NO you want a refund for a product you bought.

I don't know how places that don't sell used games handle it (such as Target), but this is GS's own way of saving its corporate bottom line ass.

In a few years they'll probably do something even more asinine, like charging a restocking fee. That way you'll buy a game for X, return it, only get it's used value back AND pay five bucks.

Fuck. I shouldn't give them any ideas.

I mean, that's the deal. Until people as a whole get smart enough to stop buying new games there, policies won't change. This is why I advocate going elsewhere, as much as I despise all retail locations.

Between every last GS employee asking me if I want to do trade-ins and/or preorder some damn game I don't care about and/or sell me a protection plan and/or retarded bullshit, it's hard to imagine why it's even still operating. It's the eBay of game stores.

[-Never4ever-]

Sorry to sound cynical, but it sounds (and looks, according to your gamertag) that you bought the gutted game, played it, didn't like it and GS saw through your scheme.

On the flip side, maybe they didn't stick the plastic sticker (like they should have/always have) on it. If so then it's there fault. Unfortunately, there's no way to prove this, so all you can do is complain until they give in, or just not shopping there anymore.

[CocheseUGA]

How about you look down a couple of topics to the 276 post topic where I answer people's questions about GS huh? I know how it is to be on both sides of the counter, but some of you guys lack so much common sense that it hurts.

:roll:

Please, oh please tell us all, oh God of Games.

[CocheseUGA]

Between every last GS employee asking me if I want to do trade-ins and/or preorder some damn game I don't care about and/or sell me a protection plan and/or retarded bullshit, it's hard to imagine why it's even still operating. It's the eBay of game stores.

And that's about the croix of it.

You know, it might even be different if I could have a big banner on my forehead that says:
'Look at my hands. If they are empty, don't fucking ask me about trades.'

And I know what people are going to say: 'If you don't like it, blah blah blah.' Unfortunately, there are some people who don't have a better or equal choice. The big boxes only carry so many different titles. Sometimes GS is the only option, outside of the real ebay.

The other thing I love hearing is: 'We have to ask. It's part of our job.'

All I hear when I see that is, either 'I'm too lazy to find another job' or 'I completely agree with the policy.' If you don't agree with the policy, don't work there. Otherwise, you're complicit.

[Kuros]

Please, oh please tell us all, oh God of Games.

Your sarcastic post only proves that you are here only to whine along with the OP and with everyone else who whines about GS/EB and then continues to shop there.

*Slams his head on the desk*

[Zingela]

I, personally think the employee on duty at the time of the OP's mishap is in the wrong. If the OP was right and the label was still on the unshrinkwrapped-box, it should have been clear that the product was bought in that condition. Sure, they are correct that you *could* have played it, but honestly, they didn't go through one of the precautions they could have taken to ensure this didn't happen (re-shrink it, place a label on the opening, etc). Their fault.

Although, if you had any slight thought that you may have had a problem by purchasing a gutted copy of a new game, by all means pass on it.

The other thing I love hearing is: 'We have to ask. It's part of our job.'

All I hear when I see that is, either 'I'm too lazy to find another job' or 'I completely agree with the policy.' If you don't agree with the policy, don't work there. Otherwise, you're complicit.

You know what? I'd rather not lose my job over *possibly* annoying a couple of people (face it, that's a part of retail). As for looking for another, I am, aside from a couple of policies and dicking around from corporate, I enjoy working there. Pays for my hobbies and classes, it's all good.

[CocheseUGA]

Your sarcastic post only proves that you are here only to whine along with the OP and with everyone else who whines about GS/EB and then continues to shop there.

*Slams his head on the desk*

A couple of more times, and you might become enlightened. Or brain-damaged.

[Kuros]

A couple of more times, and you might become enlightened. Or brain-damaged.

Are you going to make more smartass remarks or try to prove me wrong?

Like I said, if more people used some common sense, then we wouldn't be having "OMG GAYSTOP SUCKS!" topics every other day.

[captainfrizo]

Are you going to make more smartass remarks or try to prove me wrong?

Like I said, if more people used some common sense, then we wouldn't be having "OMG GAYSTOP SUCKS!" topics every other day.

Or, if "Gaystop" changed their procedures over matters such as this we likely wouldn't have these topics either.

I understand your frustration as an employee, but you're fighting a battle you cannot win.

[CocheseUGA]

Are you going to make more smartass remarks or try to prove me wrong?

I didn't see anything to try to prove one way or the other. Are you going to enlighten us, or just continue to complain about how your customers don't get it?

[Kuros]

Or, if "Gaystop" changed their procedures over matters such as this we likely wouldn't have these topics either.

I understand your frustration as an employee, but you're fighting a battle you cannot win.

I'm not so frustrated as an employee, but the lack of common sense frustrates me.

It's simple, if you don't like gutted copies, then don't buy them. I'm sure another store somewhere will have a copy of that game sealed, it's not like that gutted copy is the last copy in the world and you have to deal with it.

I do agree with the OP on the point if they didn't put any wrapping or a sticker over the gutted copy, they should take it back. I know I have before, it was my mistake, I'll fix it.

[Strell]

Solution: No gutted copies to begin with.

Tragically hard, I know.

I think that's all we're saying.

I don't want already peeled bananas at the grocery store, for example.

[Chacrana]

Solution: No gutted copies to begin with.

Tragically hard, I know.

I think that's all we're saying.

I don't want already peeled bananas at the grocery store, for example.


Well that's an interesting analogy, but yeah, it works.

Why does Gamestop gut copies? To prevent stealing? Well that's fine. I'm sure a lot of people are out to steal those copies behind the locked display case so it's reasonable to assume that opening a sealed game will prevent such a thing from ever happening.... If somebody's stealing shit, I don't think they'll care much whether or not the game's even sealed. The whole gutting policy might prevent a few thefts, but it also prevents a few sales... so really, there are no winners. Only losers and tears.

Kuros, people are fucking stupid. That can't be changed. But Gamestop's policies are equally inane.

[Kuros]

Solution: No gutted copies to begin with.

Tragically hard, I know.

I think that's all we're saying.

I don't want already peeled bananas at the grocery store, for example.

Problem: The company isn't going to pay for lots of empty boxes with lots of artwork to go in them. To them it's cost effective to take one or two games and gut them. Prove to them otherwise and maybe they will change their ways.

Solution: Don't buy gutted copies of games if you don't like gutted copies of games. I'm sure someone else will come around and not worry about breaking the video game hymen and just wanna play the game.

Tragically hard, I know.

Chacrana:

Agreed on both points. I don't agree with some of the policies myself, that's why when I can, I'll help out a customer and bend rules. Someone bring in a game a day or two after the 7 day satisfactory warranty? No problem.

I could be a dick and tell them no, but why be a dick to your customers?

[pimpinc333]

I have a few simple words for you guys

If you don't like it... don't FUCKING shop there!

Christ, I'm glad I don't have you guys in my store. I'd go batshit insane.

This dude right here is GS for life $$$$a's. :) Here is a simple solutionfor these types of problems. Have the game companies send you empty box display cases? Not sure why they don;t do this if they are having so many problems with it.

[pimpinc333]

Solution: No gutted copies to begin with.

Tragically hard, I know.

I think that's all we're saying.

I don't want already peeled bananas at the grocery store, for example.
I like that analogy a lot. But then I thought some people do pay for peanuts out of a shell while others like to crack them open themselves ;)

[Kuros]

This dude right here is GS for life $$$$a's. :) Here is a simple solutionfor these types of problems. Have the game companies send you empty box display cases? Not sure why they don;t do this if they are having so many problems with it.

Check the post above yours.

[Strell]

Problem: The company isn't going to pay for lots of empty boxes with lots of artwork to go in them. To them it's cost effective to take one or two games and gut them. Prove to them otherwise and maybe they will change their ways.

Solution: Don't buy gutted copies of games if you don't like gutted copies of games. I'm sure someone else will come around and not worry about breaking the video game hymen and just wanna play the game.

Tragically hard, I know.

You have such terrible logic, it's amusing really.

What if you only have one GS near you and the other one is fifty miles away? Then you getting the "one or two" gutted copies is a bit more of a pain in the ass, as there's no replacement anywhere, no store to go to, you don't want to waste gas, etc.

I can throw out a million slippery slope arguments too. It's not hard.

How about they offer a gutted copy for 5 bucks less AND allow you the same elasticity in returning a used copy? That would make more sense than anything. That way if you have to return it for some reason, you can. If you don't, you get a slight discount. No more people complaining either. Also, the employee has to mention beforehand "this will be a gutted copy, which means ____, are you okay with this?"

None of this bullshit where they sort of secretly bag the game up and hope you won't notice.

I'd propose another solution that eliminates display boxes altogether and opts for some sort of cataloging computer system or putting EVERYTHING behind a counter and forcing people to ask for boxes to check (meaning they could be sealed completely), but I'm sure you'll call those asinine and such, so oh well.

All I know is that there are other stores where this sort of thing doesn't happen, and given the insane profit margins GS can and does make, I'd think they could treat their customers will a little more respect than they generally do.

[pimpinc333]

You have such terrible logic, it's amusing really.

What if you only have one GS near you and the other one is fifty miles away? Then you getting the "one or two" gutted copies is a bit more of a pain in the ass, as there's no replacement anywhere, no store to go to, you don't want to waste gas, etc.

How about they offer a gutted copy for 5 bucks less AND allow you the same elasticity in returning a used copy? That would make more sense than anything. That way if you have to return it for some reason, you can. If you don't, you get a slight discount. No more people complaining either. Also, the employee has to mention beforehand "this will be a gutted copy, which means ____, are you okay with this?"

None of this bullshit where they sort of secretly bag the game up and hope you won't notice.

I'd propose another solution that eliminates display boxes altogether and opts for some sort of cataloging computer system or putting EVERYTHING behind a counter and forcing people to ask for boxes to check (meaning they could be sealed completely), but I'm sure you'll call those asinine and such, so oh well.

All I know is that there are other stores where this sort of thing doesn't happen, and given the insane profit margins GS can and does make, I'd think they could treat their customers will a little more respect than they generally do.


When they try to sell me a gutted copy I say:

Me: Nah Dude FUCK that I don't want a used game.

GS Employee: It's not a used game it's never been played.

Me: I don't give a FUCK it's a used game since it's all stickered up and it's not factory sealed.

Personally I will never buy a used game from GS/EB since I hate getting the stickers off of the cases.

[Kuros]

You have such terrible logic, it's amusing really.

What if you only have one GS near you and the other one is fifty miles away? Then you getting the "one or two" gutted copies is a bit more of a pain in the ass, as there's no replacement anywhere, no store to go to, you don't want to waste gas, etc.

How about they offer a gutted copy for 5 bucks less AND allow you the same elasticity in returning a used copy? That would make more sense than anything. That way if you have to return it for some reason, you can. If you don't, you get a slight discount. No more people complaining either. Also, the employee has to mention beforehand "this will be a gutted copy, which means ____, are you okay with this?"

None of this bullshit where they sort of secretly bag the game up and hope you won't notice.

I'd propose another solution that eliminates display boxes altogether and opts for some sort of cataloging computer system or putting EVERYTHING behind a counter and forcing people to ask for boxes to check (meaning they could be sealed completely), but I'm sure you'll call those asinine and such, so oh well.

All I know is that there are other stores where this sort of thing doesn't happen, and given the insane profit margins GS can and does make, I'd think they could treat their customers will a little more respect than they generally do.

I don't know how it's not logical to not buy gutted games if you don't like gutted games, seems logical to me.

How about they offer a gutted copy for 5 bucks less AND allow you the same elasticity in returning a used copy?

I've mentioned before that GS does offer a shopworn/open copy discount. It's only 10% but it's better than nothing. $5 for an open game sounds good, but what about those $10 new games? Cutting the price in half is pretty dumb.

As for the returning part, GS used to allow that with new games until they got hit with a class action lawsuit about them selling new games that people returned as new. Yea, sounds bad, but you gotta think from their point of view, you just can't take that new game and make it used, it would screw up the inventory of that store. Therefore, if someone doesn't like the game and they bought it new, well they are out of luck. Makes sense on why GS pushes used sales.

Also, the employee has to mention beforehand "this will be a gutted copy, which means ____, are you okay with this?"

I agree with you there, that's why I do say that when selling a gutted copy. I don't know why it isn't standard practice.

I'd propose another solution that eliminates display boxes altogether and opts for some sort of cataloging computer system or putting EVERYTHING behind a counter and forcing people to ask for boxes to check (meaning they could be sealed completely), but I'm sure you'll call those asinine and such, so oh well.

Sounds good in a perfect world, but considering all of the extra work it would involve and the chance for theft, I wouldn't consider it on a large scale basis. I already have enough stuff to do between trying to keep the store clean, trying to process the 50 item trade in because some guy wanted a 360, trying to get trade in prices for a kid over the phone that stutters and also trying to ring up customers. Adding on the fact that people would have to ask me to check the boxes and prices for new games and it opens up the possiblity of someone running out of the store with a new game in hand, I'd rather take the gutted copy route.

Personally, I would love for GS to provide boxes and box art for new games instead of relying on gutted copies, but think about the costs for 300-500 game cases per store, 300-500 box arts per store and multiply that by roughly 3000. Then add on replacement box art and replacement cases.

I can see why they use gutted copies.

[CocheseUGA]

Problem: The company isn't going to pay for lots of empty boxes with lots of artwork to go in them. To them it's cost effective to take one or two games and gut them. Prove to them otherwise and maybe they will change their ways.

Hmm. $.15 for a insert, if the game company didn't give them to you for free. No reason for them not to, DVD companies do.

Let's say, for shits and giggles, $.50 for a case that's reusable? And those you could dig out of the Blockbuster dumpster (or hell, they'll just give them to you if you know when to go and ask nicely).

EB/GS comes off as an insanely cheap company from what you describe, if I didn't think a lackey DM fed you that crap. Hmm...let's handle the discs as many times as possible and put into paper envelopes so they scratch more just so we can save $5 per store per week. It's not like we're asking the company to purchase expensive locking EAS cases to put the games in (kinda like, oh, every other company does?)

But I can't say EB/GS comes off as an extremely cheap company. After all, they're only profitting about 60-75% on their used games (if industry trade-in prices across the board could be used).

Sounds to me more like a 'This is the way it's always been done, so why change it' type of policy.

[pimpinc333]

Hmm. $.15 for a insert, if the game company didn't give them to you for free. No reason for them not to, DVD companies do.

Let's say, for shits and giggles, $.50 for a case that's reusable? And those you could dig out of the Blockbuster dumpster (or hell, they'll just give them to you if you know when to go and ask nicely).

EB/GS comes off as an insanely cheap company from what you describe, if I didn't think a lackey DM fed you that crap. Hmm...let's handle the discs as many times as possible and put into paper envelopes so they scratch more just so we can save $5 per store per week. It's not like we're asking the company to purchase expensive locking EAS cases to put the games in (kinda like, oh, every other company does?)

But I can't say EB/GS comes off as an extremely cheap company. After all, they're only profitting about 60-75% on their used games (if industry trade-in prices across the board could be used).

Sounds to me more like a 'This is the way it's always been done, so why change it' type of policy.
Insert Clapping smiley here.

I have no idea how to do that one :)

[m0dem]

Problem: The company isn't going to pay for lots of empty boxes with lots of artwork to go in them. To them it's cost effective to take one or two games and gut them. Prove to them otherwise and maybe they will change their ways.

Solution: Don't buy gutted copies of games if you don't like gutted copies of games. I'm sure someone else will come around and not worry about breaking the video game hymen and just wanna play the game.

Tragically hard, I know.

Chacrana:

Agreed on both points. I don't agree with some of the policies myself, that's why when I can, I'll help out a customer and bend rules. Someone bring in a game a day or two after the 7 day satisfactory warranty? No problem.

I could be a dick and tell them no, but why be a dick to your customers?

Well if they wont pay for all those empty boxes with artworks why do they buy them for preorders to display. They can keep them out there when games come out and put an available now sticker on it.

[Kuros]

Hmm. $.15 for a insert, if the game company didn't give them to you for free. No reason for them not to, DVD companies do.

Let's say, for shits and giggles, $.50 for a case that's reusable? And those you could dig out of the Blockbuster dumpster (or hell, they'll just give them to you if you know when to go and ask nicely).

EB/GS comes off as an insanely cheap company from what you describe, if I didn't think a lackey DM fed you that crap. Hmm...let's handle the discs as many times as possible and put into paper envelopes so they scratch more just so we can save $5 per store per week. It's not like we're asking the company to purchase expensive locking EAS cases to put the games in (kinda like, oh, every other company does?)

But I can't say EB/GS comes off as an extremely cheap company. After all, they're only profitting about 60-75% on their used games (if industry trade-in prices across the board could be used).

Sounds to me more like a 'This is the way it's always been done, so why change it' type of policy.

EB/GS is a cheap company and as for the crack about the lackey DM feeding me crap, I hate my DM.

Hmm...let's handle the discs as many times as possible and put into paper envelopes so they scratch more just so we can save $5 per store per week.

If you think of it on a larger scale, you would see that it adds up pretty quickly. Also, I really don't think that Blockbuster will help out EB/GS since they own GameRush, which is a competitor.

Well if they wont pay for all those empty boxes with artworks why do they buy them for preorders to display. They can keep them out there when games come out and put an available now sticker on it.

It's a much larger scale, that's why they won't do it. 40-50 boxes per store doesn't compare to 300-500.

Anyway CAG chaps, for me this discussion will have to continue later, I have to go to work. ;)

[Strell]

Whoa there Kuros.

Did you work in like....the busiest GS ever?

'Cuz in every last GS I've gone into - every last one - it's never a tenth as busy as you are claiming. Ever. In fact, the only thing holding up lines most of the time is incompetent employees who are standing around doing nothing but busy work so it looks like they are busy - like dusting the inside of the goddamn display case. That or they are hanging out in the back just hiding. OR the line is getting progressively longer because they have to answer the phone with a thirty second introduction about how great a day GS is having and how you give the most for trade-ins AND you can reserve a copy of Dark Nutz 4 - The Revenge of Dark Nutz. Or they just don't know wtf they are doing.

I mean, is like...everyone in the world coming to this GS of yours? Do they ALL need to know the trade-in prices of 10 games (ranging from "crap" to "not so crap") AND want to test drive the latest Call of Duty? And their shoes are all caked with mud so the floor gets incredibly dirty? And they have ice cream all over their hands and make the controllers filthy? And on the way out, they sprig glitter all over the place and kick over the magazine rack?

I'm sorry but I don't buy your story about how busy GS is. I've seen it have a few people in there at times during the holidays and maybe at the start of significant sales, but nothing that 5 minutes of waiting wouldn't cure. And beyond that, whenever I've been in there a long time, it's because the employees either don't know how to do their job OR, as I pointed out before, try to shovel down whatever phrase-of-the-day their boss told them to say. Now I won't call them out on that too much since it's in their job description, but I will say they'd be more efficient without them.

And if it's that busy, you need another damn person working for/with you. I'm sure there's tons of high school kids that would jump at the offer to make minimum wage just to get high on new cardboard smell.

Further, I thought you couldn't give our prices over the phone. I know there's been tons of threads on here about how it pisses people off to find out what games are or aren't there at the store, and are told that trade-ins can't be given out over the phone (which is a clever marketing tactic to get people physically in the store). In fact, I've seen it first hand.

Beyond all of that, I'd wager it takes 5 minutes to vacuum, another 5 to clean off counters and demo units, and maybe 15-20 to size up the shelves and cases, and I'm willing to bet that's all closing duties except in extreme cases (read: baby throws up on God of War 2 promotional box).

I'm with Cochese and m0dem - if they pay so much for 5-6 display boxes for one game (50 Cent's Assbullets Brigade), which they just throw away (as I've fished them out of dumpsters before), I guess I'd think they could do the smart thing and just get 1 for every game.

It probably costs them more money to have someone get a piece of paper and sharpie on "Yu-Gi-Oh's Bass Fishing Xtreme 2k4+3: Axloth Squad" than to just keep a small binder full of demo sheets to slip into reusable cases.

But hey. I don't work there. So I guess I have no room to stand on.

And with that, I'll stop buying new games there, with the small exception of niche titles I know won't appear at other retailers.

[CocheseUGA]

EB/GS is a cheap company and as for the crack about the lackey DM feeding me crap, I hate my DM.

Hmm...let's handle the discs as many times as possible and put into paper envelopes so they scratch more just so we can save $5 per store per week.

If you think of it on a larger scale, you would see that it adds up pretty quickly. Also, I really don't think that Blockbuster will help out EB/GS since they own GameRush, which is a competitor.



You missed the point completely. EB/GS should be able to get these inserts thrown in free. Someone there either hasn't thought about this (Dee dee dee), or just hasn't looked into it. As for the cases, the company must be able to get them from somewhere, because they accept disc only trades and provide cases for their MovieStop subsidary. A large company like that could get them for next to nothing.

And speaking of which, they could learn something from their own company. MovieStop only has locks around their box sets, and I haven't heard any tell from the employees about theft concerns. And since they are ordering those locks anyways, there would be minimal cost in ordering enough to cover the display copies of their, say, $40 and up games (picking a random price point). They would probably get a price break on ordering more, and the additional cost would be further offset by an increased write-off amount.

The company could probably even break even by closing down some of the unneccesary stores they have now. Four within a mile of each other? It's those $40K signs they have that's fucking them over though.

[CocheseUGA]

Here's to follow up with Strell:

I worked at two different Blockbusters for about 18 months. I was an ASM (and had I stuck around, would have had my choice of stores - fuck that I said).

When closing, it sucked, especially on a Friday or Saturday night at 1AM. We'd be there until probably about 1:45 or so straightening shelves and closing down the store. It sucked, I hated it. Even when I had other people doing the work and I was filing papers and counting funds. Took forever. This was with 4-5 people there with me, too.

But that was BB. We had probably a thousand + people come in on any given weekend day. Had about 15-18 employees working during said days. Lines could get pretty long telling people about promotions, that we didn't rent 'flicks' (people who worked there will get that one), and generally dealing with all sorts of twachos who didn't know that widescreen>fullscreen.

EB/GS, however, is not BB. The most people I've ever seen in line at my closest store was 6. Unfortunately, that's the number I see most frequently. Usually because there is only one guy working the floor (hey, it's Tuesday, let's let one guy run the floor AND receive and put out all the new releases) or there are three employees behind the register discussing how they only play import titles, because the US gets 'kiddie titles.' And generally trying to spend as much time as fucking possible trying to add on or explain how they can bring back their game even if it's broken in two with their replacement program. I won't get into that mess again, though.

Unfortunately, customer service at all businesses are no longer about helping the customer, but about getting the customer to fork over as much cash as possible, or sign up for enough programs to get the SM a fat bonus while the regular employees get the 'benefit' of being able to hold stuff for three months and not be able to combine their discount and whatever promotion is going on at the time. (I'm talking to you, you Blockbuster fucks)

Unfortunately, the only way to change these things is to force their hand. Don't shop new games at EB/GS until they change. They won't change, though, unless we tell them why we aren't using them. Just as companies like BB won't change until we tell them we aren't shopping there until they ease up from their pushy programs (the customer has to say no at least three times - to hell with that).

You're right. It only takes about 10 minutes (tops) to vaccum a store the size of most EB/GS I've seen. It can't take that long to straighten the shelves, they are single depth. As far as taking in trade-ins taking up most of the day, then there is a fatal flaw in the process if it takes that long.

[pimpinc333]

The only time I see more then 4 or 5 "customers" at my local EB or GS is when they have 9 or midnight releases of pre oredered hot games.

[kjauburn]

I have to agree with Kuros on 1 main point. If you don't like them don't shop there. I don't go in there for a reason. Same with the gutted copies don't buy them, if it pisses you off. I avoid EB/Gamestop mainly because there is enough choice in the ATL market and I always refuse to pay money for a gutted copy.

[Kerig]

If you don't like them don't shop there...I avoid EB/Gamestop mainly because there is enough choice in the ATL market...

Bad timing on this one. Most everyone here just got an arseload of credit w/the 3/$10 bonus at EB/GS. So I guess we'll just have to buy used, with the exception of Pimpin', since he don't like no stickers...:lol:

BTW Pimp, the newer stickers come off quicker than cheap hubcaps, just look for boxes with rectangular stickers and stay far away from the square stickers.)

EB TRICKERY: putting new easy-stick stickers over the old stickin' for life stickers.

[yukine]

Bad timing on this one. Most everyone here just got an arseload of credit w/the 3/$10 bonus at EB/GS. So I guess we'll just have to buy used, with the exception of Pimpin', since he don't like no stickers...:lol:

BTW Pimp, the newer stickers come off quicker than cheap hubcaps, just look for boxes with rectangular stickers and stay far away from the square stickers.)

EB TRICKERY: putting new easy-stick stickers over the old stickin' for life stickers.

I hate when they do that...

[GizmoGC]

Why is there a Kameo picture in your 360 game list? As in the game you want to return. So now you have played it...still want to return it though, right? The principal of the matter, eh?

[Kuros]

Why is there a Kameo picture in your 360 game list? As in the game you want to return. So now you have played it...still want to return it though, right? The principal of the matter, eh?

ROFL!

I didn't even notice that.

[Pootie Thang]

Why is there a Kameo picture in your 360 game list? As in the game you want to return. So now you have played it...still want to return it though, right? The principal of the matter, eh?

Haha well they're making me wait till Friday to get a word on it. So I put it in the system. Then I noticed that NCAA Football 07 demo after looking at these forums. So still, regardless of me putting it in the system, I didn't even get past the intro.

[RedvsBlue]

Why is there a Kameo picture in your 360 game list? As in the game you want to return. So now you have played it...still want to return it though, right? The principal of the matter, eh?

Boy, you're really invested in this thing aren't you.

[Pootie Thang]

Let me ask you guys a question. Even though you have no interest in the game whatsoever, wouldn't you put it in your Xbox just to see what it's like even if it's for like a minute? Especially since they're making me wait up to 3 days to get a response about the situation? And even then I may not recieve word about the situation.

[Friend of Sonic]

Let me ask you guys a question. Even though you have no interest in the game whatsoever, wouldn't you put it in your Xbox just to see what it's like even if it's for like a minute? Especially since they're making me wait up to 3 days to get a response about the situation? And even then I may not recieve word about the situation.
So, you used the game and now am wondering why they wouldn't accept the return? Suppose if the game was sealed and you had put it in your Xbox for just a minute. It becomes used at that very point.

[Mr. Anderson]

Let me ask you guys a question. Even though you have no interest in the game whatsoever, wouldn't you put it in your Xbox just to see what it's like even if it's for like a minute? Especially since they're making me wait up to 3 days to get a response about the situation? And even then I may not recieve word about the situation.

Curiosity would get the best of me personally, but I'd say it becomes used at that point.

[Z-Saber]

Curiosity would get the best of me personally, but I'd say it becomes used at that point.Yup. Everything we've said about EB/GS taking it back should still apply, but dang son. That's a nice little deception there.

[Chacrana]

Curiosity would get the best of me personally, but I'd say it becomes used at that point.


It wasn't really new anymore when Gamestop opened the game. They don't have a problem selling a used game as new either so this is fine (though deceptive.) And everyone loses when you shop at Gamestop and buy a "new" game.

Eh, at this point I really don't care that much.

[6669]

Moral of the story: Never buy a "new" game that's already been opened.

[CYRiX]

/thread

[GizmoGC]

Boy, you're really invested in this thing aren't you.

No, I really couldnt careless. Dosnt effect me at all. However when he comes here and starts a thread about GS selling 'new' games as used, and then PLAYS said game.....Cmon. Now he wants to return the now USED game as NEW.

Whatever. We can talk more about this in 2-3 days when another topic of the same arises.

[Z-Saber]

Gamestop should take it back, BUT the OP shouldn't take it back. If he hadn't played it, they should take it back. Since there is no proof he played it (aside from the gamertag and the confession) they should take it back. He should not take it back though because it is absolutely used at this point.

And now the lines blur. Should we side with Gamestop, who is technically correct in denying the return, though they should still allow because they don't know it is used? Or should we side with a liar who wants to return a game that is technically used with no indication of its usage?

[CocheseUGA]

No, I really couldnt careless. Dosnt effect me at all. However when he comes here and starts a thread about GS selling 'new' games as used, and then PLAYS said game.....Cmon. Now he wants to return the now USED game as NEW.

Whatever. We can talk more about this in 2-3 days when another topic of the same arises.

Why is it an issue? It's not like GS can tell if a disc has been played or not. They've already denied him of what he wants, who could blame him for playing it while GS gets their shit together?

[FREAKMIKE3]

And that's about the croix of it.

You know, it might even be different if I could have a big banner on my forehead that says:
'Look at my hands. If they are empty, don't fucking ask me about trades.'

And I know what people are going to say: 'If you don't like it, blah blah blah.' Unfortunately, there are some people who don't have a better or equal choice. The big boxes only carry so many different titles. Sometimes GS is the only option, outside of the real ebay.

The other thing I love hearing is: 'We have to ask. It's part of our job.'

All I hear when I see that is, either 'I'm too lazy to find another job' or 'I completely agree with the policy.' If you don't agree with the policy, don't work there. Otherwise, you're complicit.


You know, some people actually do like working there. What kills me is that you guys just bitch about anything. I hate being asked to open a Banana Repulic or GAP or SEARS card every time I buy something there, but I dont go screaming to the internet to rally the troops in my hatred.

Lets try something...

I hate being asked to get the Large popcorn when I asked for the medium. Screw the theaters!

I hate being asked to supersize my meal, fuck McDonalds

I hate being asked to buy socks when I buy sneakers, screw FootLocker!

I hate being asked to open a savings account when I deposit a check, screw banks!

I hate being asked if I want the clear coat when I buy a car, screw car dealerships!

Hmm, I still dont feel cool.

Anyways, I will say that the OP is in the right. If it was sold open, then they should return it. Someone else said the right thing, and that either call the customer service number or go to the internet site. Its employees like that who make everyone look stoopid.

[CocheseUGA]

You know, some people actually do like working there. What kills me is that you guys just bitch about anything. I hate being asked to open a Banana Repulic or GAP or SEARS card every time I buy something there, but I dont go screaming to the internet to rally the troops in my hatred.
.

You know, if I hadn't been in situations where I had to ask those things, I might even have found the post amusing.

[Z-Saber]

I hate being asked to supersize my meal, fuck McDonaldsWhere have you been for the last year and a half?

[FREAKMIKE3]

[QUOTE=CocheseUGA;2033352]You missed the point completely. EB/GS should be able to get these inserts thrown in free. Someone there either hasn't thought about this (Dee dee dee), or just hasn't looked into it. As for the cases, the company must be able to get them from somewhere, because they accept disc only trades and provide cases for their MovieStop subsidary. A large company like that could get them for next to nothing.

And speaking of which, they could learn something from their own company. MovieStop only has locks around their box sets, and I haven't heard any tell from the employees about theft concerns. And since they are ordering those locks anyways, there would be minimal cost in ordering enough to cover the display copies of their, say, $40 and up games (picking a random price point). They would probably get a price break on ordering more, and the additional cost would be further offset by an increased write-off amount.

-----------------------------------------------

Putting out games live is a baaaaaaaaad idea. Ask target and walmart and bb how many copies they really lose. Its big. The Target manager told me a few months back they lost 150 of the $20 games that month alone. Walmart gets raped on DVDs. Where do you think they great used box sets come from? I mean cripes, people still steal n64 games like they have fucking crack in em.

[FREAKMIKE3]

Where have you been for the last year and a half?

Heh, I dunno. I dont eat hamburgers anymore. Steak is the only red meat I eat anymore and thats occasionally. Did I miss something at McDonalds?

[CocheseUGA]

Ask target and walmart ....

I don't have to. Been there, worked that. I know how it works. You lock them in cases with EAS tags, they generally don't get stolen. It's pretty simple.

[Z-Saber]

Heh, I dunno. I dont eat hamburgers anymore. Steak is the only red meat I eat anymore and thats occasionally. Did I miss something at McDonalds?Supersizing is gone.

[CocheseUGA]

Supersizing is gone.

Yeah. God forbid we get to eat what we want...or buy sealed games.

[FREAKMIKE3]

Yeah. God forbid we get to eat what we want...or buy sealed games.


So... they dont even offer Supersize? Lame... I at least liked eating the XXX fries...

[CocheseUGA]

Where we run into the problem is the one day where game publishers start to choose outlets that either get to have their titles all to themselves, or get to have a certain amount of lead time. To some extent, that's already started to happen to titles with low print runs. One day the retailers are going to catch on, and if they offer enough money, the publishers will bite. You may only be able to get a certain title at Best Buy, another at Wal-Mart, and another at EB/GS. It's going to suck for the consumers when this happens, but we all know how much BB and EB/GS seem to love us customers, and are so happy to give us breaks whenever possible. It hurts us in every conceivable way possible. And we're not getting into what EB/GS is currently doing yet. What happens when EB/GS gets the exclusive rights to sell Halo 3, or FFXIII, or Z:TP? It's not going to happen for these titles, but who's to say for future ones? Even worse, what happens if EB/GS gets exclusive rights to the next next generation console? They make you buy it with an outrageous warranty, or make you trade in your entire collection to get it, are you just going to say Fuck it, I won't have one? Yeah, you'll say it. Then I'll see you in there six weeks later sweating like a crackhead trading in every rare game you own to get the Playstation 6 with playable EB/GS characters and $800 seven day warranty that becomes void in states where the sun shines more than five hours a day (due to the virtual ass-raper, standard and in stock if you don't bring your trades or reserve something!)

Am I being extreme? Damn straight. Yet we all cried bloody murder when it was announced 360 games were going to be $60. I don't see massive copies of said titles sitting gathering dust on the shelves. I also don't see the so-called boycott of EA buying the NFL license hurting their sales. We all just rolled over and took it like good little bitches because we all said Fuck it, I just won't buy XXX. Your plan on lulling EA and Microsoft into comfortable profits and waiting until they aren't looking is working brilliantly.

Money talks, bullshit sits here and tells me I don't have the right to complain about a company's policy because I have other choices. I'll remind you of that when the next merger or exclusive rights deal gets announced.

If retail establishments do things that hurt us, we need to speak up, not just ignore it and shop elsewhere. We may not have that option one day. EB/GS hurts us, selling open copies as new, by not following their own policies. Not sealing the game with a 'warranty-style' sticker. As if we would even buy that copy if we were giving it as a gift. Your brother opens the game up a month later at Xmas and it has scratches on it, you really think they are going to replace it unless you bought their warranty? That's wishful thinking even when the game is sealed. At least with a non-fucked with copy, there is less of a chance a counter monkey didn't run a Hot Wheels over it on the way to it's paper sleeve.

In a world where the consumer is supposed to have it's most power in human history, why are we so willing to say Fuck it and take our business elsewhere? The people who care aren't enough of a motivating force in lost business alone to elicit change. A vocal minority is an oxymoron. When one person speaks, it's an annoyance. When ten thousand (or sixty, as this website now has) speak up, you start breaking eardrums. Look at what's happened with Lucas. When he first started rolling out the updated films on VHS and theater, we were all FUCK YEAH, watching Luke blow up shit on the big screen again bitch! Then Greedo shot first. A few people complained. We got Jar-Jar. More people spoke up. We got Hayden (I'm a little bitch) Christiansen inserted into a movie that was made before he was born. Shock. Outrage. It wasn't enough though. Not enough people spoke up and didn't use their economic power to tell him where to stick it. The masses kept buying new version after new version. Now the original originals have 'magically' resurfaced and we get a shitty LD 2 channel transfer. And next comes the BR/HD versions...and then the big box set...and then the TV series. And then hopefully he'll die and his kids will sell the company to someone who actually gives a fuck about the fans. Sorry...that was a little tangent I had to go on to illustrate how no one companies don't listen until you put a Franklin-lined boot in their ass.

It's an internet message board. Bitching on them is why they were invented. It's a lot easier for you to pass it to go on to the next thread then to come in here and tell me why I'm wrong when it's your apathy over the matter that exacerbates it.

[Friend of Sonic]

Where we run into the problem is the one day where game publishers start to choose outlets that either get to have their titles all to themselves, or get to have a certain amount of lead time. To some extent, that's already started to happen to titles with low print runs. One day the retailers are going to catch on, and if they offer enough money, the publishers will bite. You may only be able to get a certain title at Best Buy, another at Wal-Mart, and another at EB/GS. It's going to suck for the consumers when this happens, but we all know how much BB and EB/GS seem to love us customers, and are so happy to give us breaks whenever possible. It hurts us in every conceivable way possible. And we're not getting into what EB/GS is currently doing yet. What happens when EB/GS gets the exclusive rights to sell Halo 3, or FFXIII, or Z:TP? It's not going to happen for these titles, but who's to say for future ones? Even worse, what happens if EB/GS gets exclusive rights to the next next generation console? They make you buy it with an outrageous warranty, or make you trade in your entire collection to get it, are you just going to say Fuck it, I won't have one? Yeah, you'll say it. Then I'll see you in there six weeks later sweating like a crackhead trading in every rare game you own to get the Playstation 6 with playable EB/GS characters and $800 seven day warranty that becomes void in states where the sun shines more than five hours a day (due to the virtual ass-raper, standard and in stock if you don't bring your trades or reserve something!)

Am I being extreme? Damn straight. Yet we all cried bloody murder when it was announced 360 games were going to be $60. I don't see massive copies of said titles sitting gathering dust on the shelves. I also don't see the so-called boycott of EA buying the NFL license hurting their sales. We all just rolled over and took it like good little bitches because we all said Fuck it, I just won't buy XXX. Your plan on lulling EA and Microsoft into comfortable profits and waiting until they aren't looking is working brilliantly.

Money talks, bullshit sits here and tells me I don't have the right to complain about a company's policy because I have other choices. I'll remind you of that when the next merger or exclusive rights deal gets announced.

If retail establishments do things that hurt us, we need to speak up, not just ignore it and shop elsewhere. We may not have that option one day. EB/GS hurts us, selling open copies as new, by not following their own policies. Not sealing the game with a 'warranty-style' sticker. As if we would even buy that copy if we were giving it as a gift. Your brother opens the game up a month later at Xmas and it has scratches on it, you really think they are going to replace it unless you bought their warranty? That's wishful thinking even when the game is sealed. At least with a non-fucked with copy, there is less of a chance a counter monkey didn't run a Hot Wheels over it on the way to it's paper sleeve.

In a world where the consumer is supposed to have it's most power in human history, why are we so willing to say Fuck it and take our business elsewhere? The people who care aren't enough of a motivating force in lost business alone to elicit change. A vocal minority is an oxymoron. When one person speaks, it's an annoyance. When ten thousand (or sixty, as this website now has) speak up, you start breaking eardrums. Look at what's happened with Lucas. When he first started rolling out the updated films on VHS and theater, we were all FUCK YEAH, watching Luke blow up shit on the big screen again bitch! Then Greedo shot first. A few people complained. We got Jar-Jar. More people spoke up. We got Hayden (I'm a little bitch) Christiansen inserted into a movie that was made before he was born. Shock. Outrage. It wasn't enough though. Not enough people spoke up and didn't use their economic power to tell him where to stick it. The masses kept buying new version after new version. Now the original originals have 'magically' resurfaced and we get a shitty LD 2 channel transfer. And next comes the BR/HD versions...and then the big box set...and then the TV series. And then hopefully he'll die and his kids will sell the company to someone who actually gives a fuck about the fans. Sorry...that was a little tangent I had to go on to illustrate how no one companies don't listen until you put a Franklin-lined boot in their ass.

It's an internet message board. Bitching on them is why they were invented. It's a lot easier for you to pass it to go on to the next thread then to come in here and tell me why I'm wrong when it's your apathy over the matter that exacerbates it.
Damn. Here's a kitten.
http://www.babyanimalz.com/Images/cute_kitten.p.jpg

[DuelLadyS]

Moral of the story: Never buy a "new" game that's already been opened.

Moral of the story: Don't part with your money unless you know you want the crap you're buying. (*Absolutely hates doing returns where she works*)

[CocheseUGA]

Moral of the story: Don't part with your money unless you know you want the crap you're buying. (*Absolutely hates doing returns where she works*)

That's a good topic to address. Last store I worked at, returns were off the wall wacko excessive. Not much you can do about it unless you only sell as-is. So, if you can't change your return policy, let the customer know what it is before they leave, so they don't get pissed and in return piss you off. We sold softball and baseball bats. You couldn't return those once they left the store (for safety reasons). I made sure to explain it to them when they/before they bought it, because I knew they would be coming back to me when they decided they didn't want it. Then I could tell them tough, I told you before you bought it, and stapled the warranty information to your receipt (where there is magically a staple hole in the receipt, hmmm).

Problem is, I'm a rare case. Most counter monkeys are so quick to get the customer done and out the store (or to bump whatever numbers they need) that they don't take the time and explain these things to people like the OP. Unfortunately, that's something that's never going to change in retail.

But hey, if the game is still new, has the seal on it (Xbox) and in the plastic shrinkwrap, then you don't have to train you employees on how to put stickers on or deal with angry customers. Hmm...

[strayfoxx]

...GayStop? You're a clever one. ;)

Don't forget Erotically Bisexual Games...Oh that was terrible....I'll go make myself feel better with some New Game Smell.

[yukine]

[Bunch of stuff here.]


I don't think that could really ever happen, video game publishers are too greedy to limit themselves to one retail chain. And if we were going to see that kind of exclusivity that you mentioned, it wouldn't be for GameStop Corp, it would most likely be for Wal-Mart.

There is nothing to fear about EB Games/GameStop screwing you over, I'm personally more afraid of video game companies. We're already seeing it happen from them. Once Digital Distribution becomes the norm, no more physical game, and no other place to buy it besides from the company that made it. They could charge whatever the hell they wanted then.

[ejgarc]

[quote=yukine;2038974]I don't think that could really ever happen, video game publishers are too greedy to limit themselves to one retail chain. And if we were going to see that kind of exclusivity that you mentioned, it wouldn't be for GameStop Corp, it would most likely be for Wal-Mart.
quote]
Isn't the final fantasy special edition a gamestop/eb exclusive?

[Chacrana]

[quote=yukine;2038974]I don't think that could really ever happen, video game publishers are too greedy to limit themselves to one retail chain. And if we were going to see that kind of exclusivity that you mentioned, it wouldn't be for GameStop Corp, it would most likely be for Wal-Mart.
quote]
Isn't the final fantasy special edition a gamestop/eb exclusive?

That's different. The situation in question is if Gamestop was the only store selling FFXII period. Not just the SE.

[CocheseUGA]

[QUOTE=ejgarc;2039084]

That's different. The situation in question is if Gamestop was the only store selling FFXII period. Not just the SE.

Not really. A lot more people are buying LE versions these days for whatever reasons. I know if I were buying it at launch, there's no reason for me not to pay the minimal amount more. They are going to gut at least one of those, too.

[ejgarc]

Give them some time . . . also, there is nothing from having a game store do a time delayed release on something. How much more business would a place like gamestop do if they got a big hit a week before everyone else?

[6669]

Damn. Here's a kitten.
http://www.babyanimalz.com/Images/cute_kitten.p.jpg
Awwwww, how cute. I dont know about CocheseUGA, but I feel better already :)

[DuelLadyS]

Awwwww, how cute. I dont know about CocheseUGA, but I feel better already :)

I don't- that kitty looks so sad! Who upset the poor kitty? :cry:

[yukine]

[quote=Chacrana;2039102]

Not really. A lot more people are buying LE versions these days for whatever reasons. I know if I were buying it at launch, there's no reason for me not to pay the minimal amount more. They are going to gut at least one of those, too.
Well, of course. There is going to at least be SE/LE copies of games, or other extras that are exclusive to one (or a couple) retail stores. It's been that way for a long time, and not just with video games.

I personally don't see that as a problem, if you really want that exclusive extra or special edition of a game, you'll buy it, regardless of how much you hate said company. If not, well.... there is always going to be an alternative way to obtaining those... eBay, CAG, what have you.

[Friend of Sonic]

I don't- that kitty looks so sad! Who upset the poor kitty? :cry:
I did! :twisted:

[Pootie Thang]

Anyways I forgot to update you guys. Dude that works there called me back finally. Anyways he offered to give me discounts adding up to $30. So far, I've gotten 20% off of both NCAA Football 2006 and Prey Collector's Edition on the 360. And to be honest I think they will keep on giving me that discount. I am very satisfied with what they have done for me. Anyways, if any of you have problems I would reccomend that you give customer service a call.