Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin w/FREE 25th Anniversary GIFT PACK at EB/GS - Now w/Pics

[FFBlitzace]

Same here, 37.09. Now to hope it arrives in good shape.

[fuchikoma]

Just picked mine up instore.

The case is a really really really thin cardboard. All the ones my local store received were bent.

[dracula]

i got the call yesterday that the preorder was in, but i got there andthey said that i would have to pick all of it up on the 6th, but that i would indeed be getting the preorder bonus. That is totally fine with me.

where are you people getting the 8,000 number from? unless it is coming from gamestop or konami, i think it is BS.

[wbc1228]

I got my bonus today. I was amazed at how systematic the process with this time. This is shocking since I got screwed in the past for the Xenosaga I bonus artbook/shiny card bonus from way back (got a bunch of excues such as I'll get it when the games out, ups is late, they're out, some employee stole all of them etc. ). This time, my ebgames actually taped the preorder receipt to each of the bonuses!
WOW!

PS: I'm only preordered from that B&M store bc it was the closest location and I had store credit left over from trading in all my crappy cool games.

[soonerdoc]

at least one Gamestop here in OKC has the bonuses in. I picked it up yesterday (Friday) morning. Haven't opened it up yet, but it is much smaller than I thought it would be. It is about the size of 2 dvd cases, black package with red seal. Factory sealed in plastic. Perfect condition. Just had to show them my preorder receipt. Didn't mark anything down, just handed it to me. I am so glad I ordered this instore and didn't have to mess with online, shipping, extra shipping charge BS.

[rarebucky]

My GS got 5 packs in for 9 pre-orders. I'm number 6 on the list and praying that someone doesn't come in to pick up their game.

[Hollow Man]

Processing as well (ebgames.com). Since I'm paying that extra $ for the handling of this thing, it better come well packaged.

-HM

[MSI Magus]

Processing as well (ebgames.com). Since I'm paying that extra $ for the handling of this thing, it better come well packaged.

-HM

Ya I didnt pay extra for shipping, but im still going to pitch a fit if this comes in beat up condition. Honestly if you advertise something with a bonus then it better come with said bonus in good shape.

[b3b0p]

I can't remember since I preorded this in September, but didn't Gamestop and EB tack on an additional $5.00 Handling fee? I would assume this upgrades the shipping to something other than a bubble envelope.

[addicted2games]

My GS gave me my preorder bonus today. I have been shopping there over 10 years and know everyone of them. I was suprised at the flimsyness of the box but overall its really nice bonus.

[spincut]

Cancel you Konami order once you obtained it in store, thats what I did with my gamestop order. Saved me shipping charges.

honestly i think it's already paid for (it says paid in the status).

Yeah Konami.com seems a little shady, especially with no customer service number present.

[oni-link]

I got my preorder bonus today and I tell you it's immaculate!!!

[utopianmachine]

Stopped by my GameStop to see if they had it. When my fav rep saw me, he said, "You know we got it, don't you?" And I'm like, "Oh yeah."

The lack of nouns is awesome. As is this preorder bundle. I will whore myself to Konami, if they like.

[spincut]

maybe if i have time i'll head over on the 4th, as it would still be a day before, and see if they would give me one. I really dont want 2 though and althoug Konami.com is actinb very shady i'm betting they will ship it out mid this week and everything will be fine.

[1modernboy]

Great pre-order bonus… aside from the horribly, dreadfully translated art-book/timeline text. I am well pleased with mine overall.

[Arkay Firestar]

Someone listen to the soundtrack and tell me how it is PLEASE! I am still torn as to whether its worth the extra soundtrack when I can get this and a 15 dollar DVD from buy.com and use the 20 dollars off with google checkout to make it a 30 dollar order.

[trunks982]

the soundtrack is AWEsome

[chuNla]

I went to 3 Gamestop/EB and got no bonus.

[SDC]

Someone listen to the soundtrack and tell me how it is PLEASE! I am still torn as to whether its worth the extra soundtrack when I can get this and a 15 dollar DVD from buy.com and use the 20 dollars off with google checkout to make it a 30 dollar order.

If all you are interested in is the soundtrack, it'll probably be rapidshared or available on the internet pretty soon. Heck, you could cobble it together yourself if you wanted (all the tracks except the PoR ones are from already-released games which already have soundtracks).

[eldad9]

If by "pretty soon" you mean "three days ago", you're right. Thanks, Godai!

I don't see anything wrong with people previewing a disc they've already paid for.

[-Never4ever-]

Someone listen to the soundtrack and tell me how it is PLEASE! I am still torn as to whether its worth the extra soundtrack when I can get this and a 15 dollar DVD from buy.com and use the 20 dollars off with google checkout to make it a 30 dollar order.

It's a bunch of tunes ripped straight from the games themselves, oh and a bitching (if not too short) remix of Bloody Tears.

Konami could have (and should have) bundled the Preorder with the game, called it an LE and charged more for it. It's that awesome.

[Masterkyo]

2 more days :)

[boozi]

Hey, any of you guys know how long does the economy shipping take?

[Downpresser]

Got mine in-store last night, looked like they had just unpacked them!

It's of a much higher quality that I would have thought. Good deal.

[spincut]

2 more days :)

according to Konami.com they ship orders out a couple days after release, so dec 6-7.

[gunm]

Shit. Better head to GS tomorrow to see if my pre-order bonus is in. Time just whizzes by these days....

[mrchainsaw]

For those who have gotten their bonus gift, what's the stylus like?

[Roufuss]

Got mine today. There looked to be at least 30 - 35 preorders in the system (saw the guy going through the computer for my name) and I'm pretty sure there isn't 35 bonuses in the back.

Moral of the story is to go now and don't wait.

[Ziv]

For those who have gotten their bonus gift, what's the stylus like?

It's one of these http://www.ncsxshop.com/cgi-bin/shop/HDL-15.html from Hori except it's white and it says Castlevania on the clear part. It's nice.

[eau]

It's one of these http://www.ncsxshop.com/cgi-bin/shop/HDL-15.html from Hori except it's white and it says Castlevania on the clear part. It's nice.
Darn it! I just ordered a black DS Lite. Wouldn't match very well, would it?

[MSI Magus]

Darn it! I just ordered a black DS Lite. Wouldn't match very well, would it?

*doesnt understand why people care so much if their DS accecories match*

I talked to a guy recently who said that he still owns an SP just because he wants his GBA games to match what hes playing. I mean seriously what the hell half the time the thing is in your pocket or on a shelf the other half your playing it....whats it matter.

[Kendro]

Delete.

[Number83]

W00t...My order now says processing. Both the game and the free stuff. Just in time for my vacation!

[BIG5]

Also processing. Total price - $37.09. See that? No additional $5 handling fee!

[Z-Saber]

Guess I'll call and see if the bonus is in, though I don't have time to pick it up today.

[SailorDaravon]

Mine's been processing since Saturday. I've doublechecked the card info and made sure there's money in the acct, I don't want anything to go wrong >_>

[Tricky]

They will most likely ship it out this afternoon or tomorrow.

[botticus]

Talked to the manager, picked up my bonus today. Figure I won't be able to get there till after work tomorrow, no way they'd have any left.

[Roufuss]

Botticus is showing me Ebay auctions were people have already sold this brand new for $99.99 already. Twice.

I'm sorry, but I don't think the contents of the package are $100 nice... considering selling mine now as well.

[spincut]

W00t...My order now says processing. Both the game and the free stuff. Just in time for my vacation!

still nothing from konami.com...(although they said they ship orders out a couple days after launch on the 6-7).

[io]

Got mine today. There looked to be at least 30 - 35 preorders in the system (saw the guy going through the computer for my name) and I'm pretty sure there isn't 35 bonuses in the back.

Moral of the story is to go now and don't wait.

Called my EB. He said I'd get one for sure when the game came out. He (the manager) is the only person who's even picked one up yet ;). I might go out there early but I'm not sure it is worth it to drive 20 miles each way for this (when I should get it Weds with the game anyway).

[mrx1]

I wish Konami sold the art work,cd,and the timeline seperately because the game wasnt very good.Compared to other Castlevania games,Portrait of Ruin falls short.Yes,it does have wifi and does the wifi thing well.I felt that much of the original game was sacrificed to make room for wifi.:cry:Ive canceled my preorder with gamestop.Kind of sucks they're not selling that cool stuff seperately.

[Vinny]

My order still says processing... usually they ship out the items the day before it's actual ship date but maybe they're a little late this time.

I'm wondering if I should keep the extras or not. I could sure use the cash.

[cognitive77]

Called mine today about 10 am, said they haven't received any pre-order bonuses yet. Said it'd probably come in on Wednesday.

[Ikohn4ever]

I wish Konami sold the art work,cd,and the timeline seperately because the game wasnt very good.Compared to other Castlevania games,Portrait of Ruin falls short.Yes,it does have wifi and does the wifi thing well.I felt that much of the original game was sacrificed to make room for wifi.:cry:Ive canceled my preorder with gamestop.Kind of sucks they're not selling that cool stuff seperately.


Just kinda curious how u would know. You canceled your preorder and there arent any reviews yet, but you have already played through the whole game?

[io]

Just kinda curious how u would know. You canceled your preorder and there arent any reviews yet, but you have already played through the whole game?

Yeah, no kidding. 'cept there are some reviews:

http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ds/castlevaniaportraitofruin

It has a 90 average at Metacritic (only on 4 reviews so far though). If that holds up it will be tied for the second highest average score for all DS titles released so far ;) (and 1 point above Dawn of Sorrow BTW). Sounds good to me. (It also has a 90% on GameRankings, with 3 of the 4 reviews being the same sources).

Here's the Game Informer review:
http://www.gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/8E7DA239-668B-40E6-8510-4B9CA6F45050.htm

[Kendro]

Just kinda curious how u would know. You canceled your preorder and there arent any reviews yet, but you have already played through the whole game?

Probably pirated a ROM and played it off a flash cart. Lots of people played Final Fantasy III a month prior to release this way.

[dracula]

Botticus is showing me Ebay auctions were people have already sold this brand new for $99.99 already. Twice.

I'm sorry, but I don't think the contents of the package are $100 nice... considering selling mine now as well.

is this just for the bonus? or the whole game + bonus

edit just for the freaking bonus apparently

http://cgi.ebay.com/CASTLEVANIA-PORTRAIT-OF-RUIN-DS-LIMITED-EDITION-BUNDLE_W0QQitemZ160058851501QQihZ006QQcategoryZ140 088QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

http://cgi.ebay.com/Castlevania-Portrait-of-Ruin-20th-year-Anniversary-DS_W0QQitemZ190058886100QQihZ009QQcategoryZ62053QQ rdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[SDC]

eBay is fucking INSANE.

[Kendro]

I don't get it. The average Joe wouldn't spend $100 on a Castlevania bonus, only a big fan would. But a big fan would be on top of PoR's release and know that you can get it for free at GS. So how are they selling for a hundred?

[dracula]

ebay isnt insane, just some of the buyers out there. I guess some of the sellers can be a little wonky as well

[GizmoGC]

I played a few minutes of the Jap version...its pretty damn good. Can't wait to play this WEDNESDAY.

[eldad9]

And of course my local ebgames screwed up; they told me they'd have the bonus for me, but don't.

If only there was some mechanism to count people, and compare their number against the number of items available... I believe one day mankind is destined to achieve this pinnacle of existence.

[Kendro]

If only there was some mechanism to count people, and compare their number against the number of items available... I believe one day mankind is destined to achieve this pinnacle existence.

Your asking a lot for $6.25 an hour.

[Kendal]

I got the bonus on Sunday when I pre-ordered the game. I love capitalizing on miss organization.

[eldad9]

Your asking a lot for $6.25 an hour.

I envision a ... machine ... used for counting. Perhaps two machines, or even more, connected through... tubes... of some sort. Counting... together.

A series of counting tubes... so that no man need ever count again.

This shall come to pass. Perhaps not in your lifetime, perhaps not even in mine, but one day it shall be so. The age of counting will soon end.

[io]

I got the bonus on Sunday when I pre-ordered the game. I love capitalizing on miss organization.

I'd like to kindly ask you to lay off Miss Organization. She does not like to be taken advantage of!

I think we may have our answer though as to why they might sell for a bit - people with preorders getting shafted out of a copy ;).

[eau]

I just hope gamestop.com would ship them using boxes. Nothing pisses us more than receiving a crushed giftpack in the mail.

[GizmoGC]

I just hope gamestop.com would ship them using boxes. Nothing pisses us more than receiving a crushed giftpack in the mail.

Its just an envelope, right? Does not look like a box to me.

[dlian]

No, it's a pretty flimsy box.

[Zingela]

And of course my local ebgames screwed up; they told me they'd have the bonus for me, but don't.

If only there was some mechanism to count people, and compare their number against the number of items available... I believe one day mankind is destined to achieve this pinnacle of existence.

Fear not! I did just this at work.

However, they only sent us 6 of them, for 7 reserves. One guy said earlier he was thinking about cancelling, though, so we'll see how that turns out.

[spincut]

well konami.com has changed the button from pre-order to buy, but my order still has not shipped. Since i've emailed them plenty and they already said they ship 1-2 days after the release i'll wait until thursday to check up on that.

[Hollow Man]

Well ebgames.com (thus I assume gamestop.com) still hasn't shipped 'em out yet. They're apparently a little slow on the uptake.

-HM

[Eggplant_Wizard]

I'm waiting for my GS to get them in. I'll call back in a few hours and hopefully be on my way to get it.

[Mr Durand Pierre]

Is it too late to get these? I didn't preorder before because I was worried that I wouldn't get the bonus and didn't want to spend full retail. I figured I'd wait and play it by ear. Or maybe I'll order it for under $30 with google checkout from somewhere

[Hollow Man]

Well EBgames.com's product page for the game now says it Usually Ships In 24 Hours, but my status is still Processing.

-HM

[catapult37]

Went to pick mine up at GS this morning. They won't have the game til tomorrow but they gave me the pre-order bonus. Note to all of you who are worried about these: they didn't ask me to confirm that I preordered it... they just handed it to me! My store doesn't get tons of traffic, but other people might not be as lucky. Go early! :-)

[dragonjud]

Went to pick mine up at GS this morning. They won't have the game til tomorrow but they gave me the pre-order bonus. Note to all of you who are worried about these: they didn't ask me to confirm that I preordered it... they just handed it to me! My store doesn't get tons of traffic, but other people might not be as lucky. Go early! :-)

I wonder why they just lied to me. Tons of other CAGs have gone to their stores, and were either told 'yes, you can have it', or 'we'll give to you when the game comes'. The store I ordered from, just says it will come with the game. Somehow, I don't believe them.

[Eggplant_Wizard]

Mine won't have it until tomorrow.

[tonkotsu]

my order also still says processing

[MasterSun1]

GameStop in Eugene, Oregon receives the game tomorrow. The pre-order bonuses already came in, and they are holding them only for the people that pre-ordered! They said you could come and get it early if you wanted to, but there will be no problem getting them with the game tomorrow if you pre-ordered. Awesomeness!

[Killa0793]

I went to my Local Gamestop were I pre ordered and they looked me up to make sure I was one of the first to preorder because they received 14 bonuses but they have 18 pre orders so some of the people are going to be SOL:bomb:

[Masterkyo]

Yeah, It's time to head out to pickup my BONUS disc today ;)

[boozi]

So? So? So???? Aside from the bonus, how's the game?

[SailorDaravon]

Supposedly the game's been pushed back 1 day in the US and next week in Canada. Normally I'd be skeptical, but that WOULD explain why everyone's order still shows as processing, when it should be shipped by this point.

[VidgamesgivemeA_D_D]

I walked into Gamestop Monday and asked if they had more preorder bonuses, they did. Got one, sold it on Ebay already for $49.99. (bonus only, not the game) So free game + more cash.

[defiance_17]

I'll hit my local Gamestops today and see if they got any bonuses in. If my online preorder comes through, I'll try and hook somebody else up.

[Egg_Shen]

they just looked at my reciept and gave me the bonuses. im not gonna pick up the game and just fleabay the bonuses -_-.

[CloakBass]

If anyone has a bonus they wouldn't mind selling to a fellow CAG, I'm willing to buy it for 20 + shipping.

[spincut]

even though it sounds like i'm the only one that used konami.com:

Dear Sir,

Thank you for contacting Konami.com Store Support. Your order is currently being processed and should be shipping shortly. It will include the 20th Anniversary Bonus.

Sincerely,

Konami.com Store Support

[roymustang]

I'll hit my local Gamestops today and see if they got any bonuses in. If my online preorder comes through, I'll try and hook somebody else up.

I would sure appreciate the hookup. I just got off the phone with my GameCrazy and those fuckers just told me they only got 3 bonuses in for 16 preorders and when I preordered mine over a month ago the manager assured me I would be guaranteed to get one. Those fuckers will say anything to get you to pre-order stuff. This is the 2nd time I get screwed there in 2 pre-orders, now I can definitely say I'll never pre-order anything at Game Crazy ever again.

[Kendro]

I would sure appreciate the hookup. I just got off the phone with my GameCrazy and those fuckers just told me they only got 3 bonuses in for 16 preorders and when I preordered mine over a month ago the manager assured me I would be guaranteed to get one. Those fuckers will say anything to get you to pre-order stuff. This is the 2nd time I get screwed there in 2 pre-orders, now I can definitely say I'll never pre-order anything at Game Crazy ever again.
Oh they definately got more than 3. I'm sure you'll be able to find the pre-order bonus that was promised to you right here (http://search.ebay.com/search/search.dll?from=R40&satitle=castlevania+anniversary).

I didn't fuck around and ordered straight from the website. I don't trust the employees. Bad pay and a shit job means they will get whatever freebies they can get their hands on.

[drawingboard]

I managed to grab the last one at my EB today. Its a lot smaller than I thought it'd be, like the size of a DVD case.

[guinaevere]

After ages of annoying my local EB assistant manager about these preorder specials, I walk in today and wave to the third key and start browsing. Then I hear a voice from behind the counter, "just don't let gwen know I'm here." The AM is on the floor behind the counter shrink wrapping a ps2. So I immediately walk over wondering first of all how he even saw me, and asked, "so ya get the Castlevania pre-order bonuses yet?"

"Naw. We didnt get any."

Third key chimes in, "yes we did, it's right next to you."

"oh is that it?"

Third key then lets me know that as no one pre-ordered PoR in the store I could have it. :bouncy:

[spincut]

After ages of annoying my local EB assistant manager about these preorder specials, I walk in today and wave to the third key and start browsing. Then I hear a voice from behind the counter, "just don't let gwen know I'm here." The AM is on the floor behind the counter shrink wrapping a ps2. So I immediately walk over wondering first of all how he even saw me, and asked, "so ya get the Castlevania pre-order bonuses yet?"

"Naw. We didnt get any."

Third key chimes in, "yes we did, it's right next to you."

"oh is that it?"

Third key then lets me know that as no one pre-ordered PoR in the store I could have it. :bouncy:

that's the part when you should have taken out the pistola and said "yeah....i'll be taking ALL of them then....", hehe

anyway, i thought this was another one of those GS exlusives (well, and Konami.com obviously), i didnt realize gamecrazy was getting them, i didnt think gamecrazy even had preorder bonuses.

[hhhdx4]

My Gamestop has it, but I dont know, ive never played (gasp!) a Castlevania game, it looks interesting, but I hear theres alot of backtracking...I hate backtracking.


So yeah undecided :p

[Chacrana]

My Gamestop has it, but I dont know, ive never played (gasp!) a Castlevania game, it looks interesting, but I hear theres alot of backtracking...I hate backtracking.


So yeah undecided :p

The thing about backtracking in Castlevania -- it's not bad. At all. Because when you're backtracking, you're inevitably going to find new areas to access as a result of the new abilities that you gain throughout the game. It's more exploration than backtracking.

[Ikohn4ever]

got my call from them, it will be in tomorrow

[Frank784]

got my call from them, it will be in tomorrow

I just received my call my automated call as well. I asked about the Bonus and was told that "We should probably be able to cover pre-orders, just come in the morning or early-afternoon".

[defiance_17]

I managed to get another pre-order bonus this afternoon, so it's available to a lucky CAG (assuming I get mine in the mail from GameStop). I don't want much for it, so I'm looking to do a small trade to cover the $5 deposit and shipping. Interested persons, feel free to PM me, but please, only respond if you want this to keep and were unable to get one yourself. I don't want to trade this to you just so you can throw it on eBay, I'm looking to help someone out here.

EDIT: If someone could track me down a Nintendo Wii at cost + shipping, you can have this and my unending gratitude.

[xghostsniperx]

Has anyone who ordered from gamestop.com/ebgames.com got their pre-order yet? I picked economy shipping and am wondering when it might get here.

[psincubus]

ghost, in the same boat as you -- still hasn't shipped.

Usually, gamestop.com would ship ups ground if you did value shipping on a preorder. However with FF12, they didn't. So here's hoping that they ship the game and bonus via ups ground.

[Tricky]

Has anyone who ordered from gamestop.com/ebgames.com got their pre-order yet? I picked economy shipping and am wondering when it might get here.


My order from gamestop.com is still Processing.

[hhhdx4]

I went in to pre-order, they had 4 copies guy said if I pre-ordered the bonuses would be FCFS, so I was like eff that.


Ill stop by tomorrow to see if theyll sell it to me anyway.

[utopianmachine]

"Hi, this is Erin, at GameStop, calling to let you know that" (change voice tone) "Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin" (back to monotone) will be available tomorrow..." Etc etc. I have her in my cell phonebook. >_<

[botticus]

"Hi, this is Erin, at GameStop, calling to let you know that" (change voice tone) "Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin" (back to monotone) will be available tomorrow..." Etc etc. I have her in my cell phonebook. >_<It's Aeris. ;)

[battleroyal33]

I have a few copies preordered at both ebgames.com and gamestop.com, alll are showing as processing, but nothing shipped but I did also do a instore pre order and picked up my bonus for that one Monday.

[tiredfornow]

listened to the soundtrack while driving during work, AWESOME. :P

[nexes]

I went in to my local EB an hour ago and paid it off. The manager told me that he couldn't give them out until tomorrow, but that they had exactly enough to cover pre-orders.

I'll probably swing by shortly after their shipment arrives, just to be on the safe side though.

[Tricky]

My order has shipped from Gamestop.com. I got 3 day free shipping and I used the coupon saver.

[dracula]

for anyone trying to check their preorders from the konami home website, you have to login putting your USERNAME in the field marked "EMAIL ADDRESS" so your email addy will not work, you must use whatever username they gave you. My preorder still has not shipped.

edit, my order from gamestop.com has also shipped. I checked it about 2 hours ago and it hadnt shipped yet so i am very happy to say the least. I am hoping that at least 1 of my 3 preorders comes through.(ordered from konami, gamestop.com and eb games B&M to try to increase my chances of actually getting my hands on this most excellent preorder bonus)

[boozi]

My order has shipped from Gamestop.com. I got 3 day free shipping and I used the coupon saver.
Yosha!! Same here. Mine shipped from ebgames.com. Can't wait to get it! Ah... Winter break will be so good this time around ^_______^

[BIG5]

Shipped, but it looks like they didn't accidentally send me 2 bonuses this time. Damn.

[allyourblood]

both of my orders (2 games, 2 bonus packs) appear to have shipped. yay.

[ananag112]

W00t. Shipped. The bad news though, its only getting decent reviews.

8.3 at GameSpot:

http://www.gamespot.com/ds/action/castlevaniaportraitofruin/review.html

8.9 at IGN:

http://ds.ign.com/articles/749/749349p1.html

[SDC]

Regarding the reviews: Was anyone really expecting this game to be completely awesome? All I want is more Metroidvania. As long as it is decent (and the switching heroes and bonus modes sound awesome) I don't care how mediocre it actually is.

Edit: Mine has shipped as well. PoR + Bonus for ~$37

[addicted2games]

W00t. Shipped. The bad news though, its only getting decent reviews.

8.3 at GameSpot:

http://www.gamespot.com/ds/action/castlevaniaportraitofruin/review.html

8.9 at IGN:

http://ds.ign.com/articles/749/749349p1.html
Gamespot is pretty good at reviewing games and grade very hard on games. They dont just hand out high scores that easy. So I consider anything over an 8.0 from them to be a good game.

[allyourblood]

plus who gives a frack what either of those websites has to say? i'll play it myself and see if it's good.

[BIG5]

Let's be honest, it's been more of the same since SotN, but as fans of the series, isn't that what we want? I never get sick of the Castlevania formula.

[ananag112]

plus who gives a frack what either of those websites has to say? i'll play it myself and see if it's good.

Well...I care. I am a cheapass gamer with limited time and depend partially on websites and others to review games so I can play only the best. I play games that interest me as well which do not score real high, but if I had spent money on every game which interested me, I would be broke.

[ratzombie]

8.3 is an excellent score.

It could of been worse: http://$$$$$$$$$$$$/yhl97y

[ramatut4001]

Shipped. Sweet.

[allyourblood]

so help me if this game interferes with my Twilight Princess playing...





-- i meant Zelda. not late-nite drag-queen games.

[dracula]

the last 2 games have been the same pretty much just a bigger map. I wish there were a few more games like metroid fusion with a bigger map etc.

[GizmoGC]

Got my bonus today with a new pre-order. Its good knowing the manager.

[FFBlitzace]

Yeah, I got free 3-day too while only using SAVER.

Geez EB, get it together. I hate you and the way you always mess things up. Ship it to me in 12 days and all will be right in the world.

[GizmoGC]

Is this game still suppose to have WiFi? I stayed away from alot of info for this game and the IGN review does not mention it.

[Scorch]

Is this game still suppose to have WiFi? I stayed away from alot of info for this game and the IGN review does not mention it.

Yessir, Wifi coop

[GizmoGC]

Yessir, Wifi coop

Hmm. Was hoping for an online 'bazaar'. Oh well. WiFi co-op sonds good. Can't wait till tomorrow. Now I have to decide if I want to crack up my bonus box....

[spincut]

for anyone trying to check their preorders from the konami home website, you have to login putting your USERNAME in the field marked "EMAIL ADDRESS" so your email addy will not work, you must use whatever username they gave you. My preorder still has not shipped.

edit, my order from gamestop.com has also shipped. I checked it about 2 hours ago and it hadnt shipped yet so i am very happy to say the least. I am hoping that at least 1 of my 3 preorders comes through.(ordered from konami, gamestop.com and eb games B&M to try to increase my chances of actually getting my hands on this most excellent preorder bonus)

finally someone else with a konami.com preorder. I dunno about you though, my email login works fine (maybe thats why i selected as my username).

still though, konami.com still ahs not shipped out yet, but as i posted an email from the earlier, it goes out 1-2 days after the release date, so it should still be processing until tommorow or the day after i suspect.

[utopianmachine]

It's Aeris. ;)

Seriously? ...wow.

[Hollow Man]

Shipped, with arrival date of Friday by UPS - w00t. And scores in the 80s are pretty damned good for a DS game. I haven't looked at those reviews yet, but if I had to guess, I would imagine they docked it because it's too similar to the other Castlevania games (same reason most reviewers gave Yoshi DS lower scores than people had hoped).

I personally expected it to be about the same, so I'm not complaining.

-HM

[Kendro]

Nice mine shipped too! For anyone who used SAVER, keep your fears at ease because I was only charged $37.92 with tax. They didn't tack on the extra $5 shipping and handling fee.

Now it's just a waiting game to see if I get the free included bonus. If they fuck up my bonus with careless packaging, I will be pissed. :bomb:

[KillerQueen87]

eb just shipped out my order today. it says the bonus was shipped as well--I'm hoping for the best in a few days.

[Masterkyo]

Got my Bonus Item today at local GS. I trying put down $5 & get 2nd bonus item for friend and the manager rejected cos he have no extra. It's just for pples who pre-order a week or longer.

Oh well ........ at least i try ;)

[iceblast21]

eb just shipped out my order today. it says the bonus was shipped as well--I'm hoping for the best in a few days.

Why hasn't mine shipped from GS yet?!?! DAMMIT!!! I better not get it last like I do my EGM mags!!! I HATE THESE SLOW SHIPPERS!!!!

I'm just curious to see if the bonus is included or not. It should be. I only preordered 2 months ago. Dammit.

And hey, do I hear that someone got charged only $37??? Smooth - should be the same for me!! I preordered before all that "extra $5 for shipping" crap...

[eau]

My GS order shipped today via UPS 3-Day Select! Most likely in a box since they didn't use USPS.

[Monsta Mack]

My Asslevania also shipped via 3 day select... with the bonus! Unfortunately if I miss them on Friday that means I won't see it till Monday, since UPS never delivers on weekends :(

[spidey]

My GS order shipped today via UPS 3-Day Select! Most likely in a box since they didn't use USPS.

My Unreal Tournament 2004 SE was sent FedEx by GS and it came in a bubble envelope (game came in a large metal cover, cover was bent). Granted, that's a while ago but what shipping they use doesn't always show what packaging they use. Hopefully they will use a box.

[spincut]

yep konami changed their website tonight to now shipping but my order hasnt changed yet, i assume the small minority of people that have orders waiting there are in the same boat?

[BustaUppa]

Oooh I just got a shipping confirmation email from Konami.com!

[G0G0]

Yeah! I just got my shipping confirmation from Konami.com, too! 8)

[spincut]

yeah yeah i was wondering where the heck you konami.com peeps were at. Yeah confirmation came at exactly 12:01, so it may have already been shipped out earlier today.

[trunks982]

My castle and metal gear shipped at the same time but different packages. now i have to wait till friday to get it by UPS. *sigh*

[slidecage]

I have a few copies preordered at both ebgames.com and gamestop.com, alll are showing as processing, but nothing shipped but I did also do a instore pre order and picked up my bonus for that one Monday.

why are people doing a lot of preorders. ITs not like this extra stuff will skyrocket. I would say you would see the preorder Disgaea 2 limited ed artbook (limited to 1000) go up before this and the art book isnt worth jack anymore i dont think

[mykevermin]

Used SAVER shipping from EB, and it's out for delivery this morning. HUZZAH!

why are people doing a lot of preorders. ITs not like this extra stuff will skyrocket. I would say you would see the preorder Disgaea 2 limited ed artbook (limited to 1000) go up before this and the art book isnt worth jack anymore i dont think

See Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence Limited Edition

[golddbz2000]

i got a confirmation this morning from gamestop, 3 day select. but i didnt get any indication for the bonus package...and I ordered it about 2 months ago with the bonus. Anyone else get an email from GS without a bonus indication?

[VidgamesgivemeA_D_D]

why are people doing a lot of preorders. ITs not like this extra stuff will skyrocket. I would say you would see the preorder Disgaea 2 limited ed artbook (limited to 1000) go up before this and the art book isnt worth jack anymore i dont think

I would say Castlevania has both a bigger following and this is a much cooler preorder. This is one of the best extras ever. I was almost sad to sell mine, but I needed $$$. and I never care about extras on games or collectors editions or any of that.

Sold mine for $50 opened on Ebay, so I would disagree this isn't in demand.

[norkusa]

why are people doing a lot of preorders. ITs not like this extra stuff will skyrocket.

Wanna bet? CV fans are FREAKS!

[Hollow Man]

i got a confirmation this morning from gamestop, 3 day select. but i didnt get any indication for the bonus package...and I ordered it about 2 months ago with the bonus. Anyone else get an email from GS without a bonus indication?

I actually never got an email from ebgames.com saying they shipped it, but if I check on-line, it says both the game and bonus have shipped. Both have the same tracking number listed beside.

-HMhttps://www.ebgames.com/common/images/clear.gif

[DomLando]

So I went to my local EB today and the morons that work in this certain EB gave out all the bonuses to random people. Not even people that preordered the game. The manager said he would try to get me one from another store but i know that wont be happening. Is there any other place I can get it from now or is it to late?

[evachrono]

I just pick up my copy ^_^ and its in mint condition but sadly I can't play the game till my bro finds my ds lite !!! >_<

[kell]

So I went to my local EB today and the morons that work in this certain EB gave out all the bonuses to random people. Not even people that preordered the game. The manager said he would try to get me one from another store but i know that wont be happening. Is there any other place I can get it from now or is it to late?

Try Game Crazy if you have them. Mine isn't expecting the bonuses until they get the game, but that may also mean they aren't getting any.

[Tricky]

i got a confirmation this morning from gamestop, 3 day select. but i didnt get any indication for the bonus package...and I ordered it about 2 months ago with the bonus. Anyone else get an email from GS without a bonus indication?


The game and bonus both have the same tracking number listed. They sent me one email.

[botticus]

So I went to my local EB today and the morons that work in this certain EB gave out all the bonuses to random people. Not even people that preordered the game. The manager said he would try to get me one from another store but i know that wont be happening. Is there any other place I can get it from now or is it to late?Try other EB/GS stores. It's unlikely but not impossible that some will have more bonuses than preorders.

[evachrono]

pic's ^_^
http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/2962/dsc04032ew9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[kell]

Try other EB/GS stores. It's unlikely but not impossible that some will have more bonuses than preorders.

Surprisingly true. I got one on Monday from an Eb and hadn't preordered. You might have to call a few stores, but it seems like a lot of the stores around me didn't have that many pre-orders. Good Luck!

[Alien Spider]

I picked up my game and preorder bonus at Ebgames just minutes ago. Way better than paying shipping and then having to wait (im)patiently on top of that. :)

Anyway, I hope you all get your bonuses! And have fun playing the game! I have classes until 7:30 PM and won't get home until 8:30. So no playtime 4 me right now. :(

[Hollow Man]

A small addendum to my post above - I checked my spam folder and my shipping email from ebgames.com was in there. So hopefully everyone else gets their email confirmation, but you can simply login to your account on-line and see the status.

I'm honestly glad I ordered on-line, even though it was more expensive. One too many stories about people not getting their bonuses from the store.

-HM

[Kendro]

Let's not hold our breath until the item comes in pristine condition. My main concern is that people are saying the cardboard is more fragile than GBA boxes. If they shrink wrap it like Amazon does to their packages, it will be destroyed. And I'm not sure if GS will be thoughtful to fill the box with popcorn packing material.

[mykevermin]

Let's not hold our breath until the item comes in pristine condition. My main concern is that people are saying the cardboard is more fragile than GBA boxes. If they shrink wrap it like Amazon does to their packages, it will be destroyed. And I'm not sure if GS will be thoughtful to fill the box with popcorn packing material.

Or use a box, for that matter.

[VidgamesgivemeA_D_D]

The outside cover (and maybe intentionally) is just like an old black NES cover back in the day. It's pretty flimsy like. In fact I just sent my out through the post office to the person i sold mine too on Ebay and I had them mark it fragile. Hope it arrives to him ok.

[eau]

People who are getting their CV delivery via UPS today or soon, please post if it's in a box or not. Thanks!

[Hollow Man]

Considering I actually paid the full on shipping price, with extra because they claimed they needed to for this bonus, it better come at least reasonably intact.

-HM

[MSI Magus]

So I went to my local EB today and the morons that work in this certain EB gave out all the bonuses to random people. Not even people that preordered the game. The manager said he would try to get me one from another store but i know that wont be happening. Is there any other place I can get it from now or is it to late?

Contact their costumer service and bitch them out. I bet they will get you one.

[Kendro]

Considering I actually paid the full on shipping price, with extra because they claimed they needed to for this bonus, it better come at least reasonably intact.

-HM

You would think so. Case in point, the Amazon Wii fiasco where those who used Free Saver Shipping got the Wii before those who used 2-Day and Next-Day shipping. To make matters worse, some people (like me) who got in on the pre-order via a glitch got my Wii shipped before some people who legitimately pre-ordered a month before. It's hard to be "safe" when in this day of automation, things can turn for the worse.

[dragonjud]

Stopped by during lunch...too many pre-orders, and not enough bonuses. At least this store is being fair and doing it by date of pre-order, instead of random as some mentioned. Regardless, I'm not happy about this and will probably not pre-order from them in the future.

[shipwreck]

I pre-ordered the game yesterday and picked it up along with the bonus today. Hip-hip-hooray for the GameStop that nobody seems to shop at!

[WebScud]

I got both my pre-orders with bonuses (for a present, don't hate me!) in-store with no problem today.

However, the Metal Gear Solid Portable Ops case is another story. :(

[62t]

what time do they store get the game in?

[wgsquallx2002]

would anyone be able to walk into the store to pick up this set without preordering? looks like the special anniversery gift set is off gamestop's site now.

I preordered FFXII CE at 59.99 and they had more of those on shelves than the regular edition. That incident has made me cautious of pre-ordering with GS or EB in the future. I even purchased the regular edition at a cheaper than msrp price later on. I'm angered by the way they marketed special edition games. Market the product as very special and limited, jack up the price for the guys that buy it the first day, then drop the price in less than 2 months.

[62t]

would anyone be able to walk into the store to pick up this set without preordering? looks like the special anniversery gift set is off gamestop's site now.

I preordered FFXII CE at 59.99 and they had more of those on shelves than the regular edition. That incident has made me cautious of pre-ordering with GS or EB in the future. I even purchased the regular edition at a cheaper than msrp price later on. I'm angered by the way they marketed special edition games. Market the product as very special and limited, jack up the price for the guys that buy it the first day, then drop the price in less than 2 months.
the items are not a set.

[Strider2K99]

I picked my copy of CV and bonus in-store at Gamestop. The box is definitely flimsy.

I also had one shipped from Konami's site, so I might actually have two copies of the game and bonus. ;)

[mykevermin]

WARNING TO THOSE WHO ORDERED FROM EB/GS BY MAIL!

My package (see my earlier, ironic post) did come in a padded envelope. The ol' bonus box is crushed.

Fucking fuckers.

[tonkotsu]

WARNING TO THOSE WHO ORDERED FROM EB/GS BY MAIL!

My package (see my earlier, ironic post) did come in a padded envelope. The ol' bonus box is crushed.greeeeeeeeaaaaaat

[Kendro]

WARNING TO THOSE WHO ORDERED FROM EB/GS BY MAIL!

My package (see my earlier, ironic post) did come in a padded envelope. The ol' bonus box is crushed.

Fucking fuckers.
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

I could imagine the GS warehouse fuckers getting a kick out of stuffing those into a fucking envelope.

[Bloomy]

I got both my pre-orders with bonuses (for a present, don't hate me!) in-store with no problem today.

However, the Metal Gear Solid Portable Ops case is another story. :(
I might hate you, because I preordered 2 copies, one for myself and one for my roommate, but the guy at EB would only give me one bonus. "Because it's a limited item, we only received enough for each person that preordered, not all the units that were preordered." He said I could try back on Friday when they stop holding the stuff.

On second thought, I'll let you go and just direct my hate at EB.

[SolidSeminole]

Well I picked mine up at the B&M store nearby, and the top part of my box was smashed a bit. It would have been nice had Konami used a more sturdy box to hold everything in. Oh well.. the contents were in great shape, at least.

[Hollow Man]

The ol' bonus box is crushed.

EB and GS for teh win. Bastards.

-HM

[Kendro]

I'm so heartbroken by this that I'm actually laughing out loud right now. :lol:

[WebScud]

I might hate you, because I preordered 2 copies, one for myself and one for my roommate, but the guy at EB would only give me one bonus. "Because it's a limited item, we only received enough for each person that preordered, not all the units that were preordered." He said I could try back on Friday when they stop holding the stuff.

On second thought, I'll let you go and just direct my hate at EB.

I went to two stores in differnt states. One in RI, one in MA.

[Wlogan31]

I might die if my box is crushed...I ordered via mail as well :(

[mykevermin]

EB and GS for teh win. Bastards.

-HM

It's not completely EB/GS fault. The bonus box is made out of "manila folder" thick cardstock, so Konami should have made a more durable package altogether.

And, of course, EB/GS should know not to send obsessive compulsive people shit that's crushed.

[botticus]

It's not completely EB/GS fault. The bonus box is made out of "manila folder" thick cardstock, so Konami should have made a more durable package altogether.

And, of course, EB/GS should know not to send obsessive compulsive people shit that's crushed.Particularly when charging an extra $5 for something that isn't really all that large or all that heavy. Since they didn't package it any differently, I'm going out on a limb and saying the bonus cost them an extra 50 cents to ship.

I don't order online anymore, so I don't know how they ship everything else, but the one time I ordered from GS.com, they shipped two DS games in a box. Have they moved completely to padded envelopes now?

[blueweltall]

It's not completely EB/GS fault. The bonus box is made out of "manila folder" thick cardstock, so Konami should have made a more durable package altogether.

And, of course, EB/GS should know not to send obsessive compulsive people shit that's crushed.

Did you have to pay for the extra $5 handling charge?

[mykevermin]

nope. If I did I'd be throwing a temper tantrum right now.

[drawingboard]

I might die if my box is crushed...I ordered via mail as well :(
The box it comes in is really weak. How are they shipping them? I got mine in store, and was in perfect condition. I carried it with 2 hands so I wouldn't accidentally do any damage to it.

[allyourblood]

did anyone pay the extra 5 bucks? my orders were both 34.99 +tax. that's it.

[puzzlefite]

I preordered on Black Friday 11/23 at EB in store & they didn't have a bonus for me. WWWAAAAHHH (Yea I went after you guys pointed out it was no longer on the website)

As someone who's beaten every single Castlevania except Castlevania MSX & Curse of Darkness, I'm severly disappointed that my 2 week preorder did not qualify for bonus...... off to call more stores & eBay.

[Hollow Man]

did anyone pay the extra 5 bucks?

I did, and will be immediately complaining if it's crushed.

-HM

[chrisflyer]

Gamecrazy hadn't gotten the bonus in yet (ever?). I'll be bugging them every couple days or so until they get it. At least I got to pick from the box of promo crap and get a Monkey Ball shirt.

[allyourblood]

At least I got to pick from the box of promo crap and get a Monkey Ball shirt.
i first read this as "Monkey shirt Ball" and thought, "what the heck is that?!"

[kell]

Gamecrazy hadn't gotten the bonus in yet (ever?). I'll be bugging them every couple days or so until they get it. At least I got to pick from the box of promo crap and get a Monkey Ball shirt.

Which Game Crazy location?

[Otherguy676]

I preordered yesterday and I got the bonus today. They had tons of them (about 30-50). I may go up in a few days and ask for another one if there are any left.

[hupp]

Just got mine, the dirtbag at EB said they only got eight of them.
Really isnt that great, the "sealed wax" is plastic and velcrow.
I am listening to the soundtrack trying to figure out how to open the memory card case. The artbook has gamefrontcovers from most if not all of the games.
Can't really see why anyone on ebay would spend more than 50 dolllars for this.

[GameReeper]

Just got mine, the dirtbag at EB said they only got eight of them.
Really isnt that great, the "sealed wax" is plastic and velcrow.
I am listening to the soundtrack trying to figure out how to open the memory card case. The artbook has gamefrontcovers from most if not all of the games.
Can't really see why anyone on ebay would spend more than 50 dolllars for this.

ya, it's rocket science opening that ds game case, lol, takes a true pro!

[WebScud]

I just listed 3 castlevania portrait of ruin bundles including the 20th anniversary limited edition goodies on ebay starting at .99 if anyone needs one. 3-5-7 day auctions. I kept 1 for myself ;) . If you need a pink ds for this xmas as well, i them too. Just thought I'd let ya know if anyone is interested!

That means you had four? :bomb:

[dragonjud]

I just listed 3 castlevania portrait of ruin bundles including the 20th anniversary limited edition goodies on ebay starting at .99 if anyone needs one. 3-5-7 day auctions. I kept 1 for myself ;) . If you need a pink ds for this xmas as well, i them too. Just thought I'd let ya know if anyone is interested!

Thank you for putting them up on ebay before giving CAGs a chance of purchasing them from you. I'm sure you'll get much love from others as well. Fucker

[daroga]

I just listed 3 castlevania portrait of ruin bundles including the 20th anniversary limited edition goodies on ebay starting at .99 if anyone needs one. 3-5-7 day auctions. I kept 1 for myself ;) . If you need a pink ds for this xmas as well, i them too. Just thought I'd let ya know if anyone is interested!Wow, hoarding and eBaying. You don't really understand this website well, do you?

Mine shipped UPS 3 day using SAVER. Anyone else have this happen?

[suko_32]

Wow, hoarding and eBaying. You don't really understand this website well, do you?

Mine shipped UPS 3 day using SAVER. Anyone else have this happen?

Same here, they are usually are nice about shipping methods when you preorder.

[Hollow Man]

I didn't know about the SAVER code at the time, but I did pick the el cheapo shipping option, and they instead used the 3-day.

-HM

[mykevermin]

Wow, hoarding and eBaying. You don't really understand this website well, do you?

http://images-eu.amazon.com/images/P/B00005UWQJ.02.LZZZZZZZ.jpg

Delusions of grandeur often translate to a week's worth of "Burger King." Let reality hurt the poor bastard.

On a positive note, American fans got the shaft with regard to Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse. The Japanese version had an extra sound chip (?) on board, giving the music a much better, fuller, overall sound. Like nothin' on the NES before or after. Or at all in the US' case, as Konami gave us stripped down audio.

Listen to track 7 on the CD Soundtrack, and you'll know what I mean. The music on the CD is much richer than I recall. nice!

[Wlogan31]

I checked my package tracking and it says it has been delivered (think I paid the extra $5 b/c I was being dumb that day), but it better not be damaged...I'm nervous - I need to get home soon!

P.S. Thanks for hoarding whoever you were...offer them up on CAG first for future reference unless you want to be hated here

[gamer602]

The game arrived at my local EB in coquitlam!!!
So to all Canadians, THE GAME IS NOT DELAYED, go pick it up now!
Thank you Konami for shipping this game to both US and Canada!
I'm sure ANOTHER COMPANY, (NINTENDO) can learn a thing or two from you guys. Stop shipping games TWO DAYS after the U.S release day, NINTENDO!

[addicted2games]

I just listed 3 castlevania portrait of ruin bundles including the 20th anniversary limited edition goodies on ebay starting at .99 if anyone needs one. 3-5-7 day auctions. I kept 1 for myself ;) . If you need a pink ds for this xmas as well, i them too. Just thought I'd let ya know if anyone is interested!
are you related to Blair2100? He does the same damn thing.

[Sirmackerel]

Here's hoping my copy doesn't get crushed in the mail...

[Moses144]

Got mine today. It was wierd, the lady had to go in back to get the bonus. Usually they just duck down behind their counter and pull up any bonuses.

[amusedtoe]

Going to go pick mine up shortly, though I'm on the doorstep of 60 in WoW so I may not touch it for a while. :\

[Vinny]

Oh fuck... I hope mine didn't get crushed. I don't get to find out for another 10 days! I'll be damn pissed if I find out mine's been crushed but I won't be able to do shit about it. Son of a bitch...

[allyourblood]

Going to go pick mine up shortly, though I'm on the doorstep of 60 in WoW so I may not touch it for a while. :\

a perfect time to stop playing. stop before it's too late! ;)

[Kendro]

Wow it is A LOT thinner than I thought. Now I see why the dumbasses felt they could get away with a bubbled envelope. Yeah...our packages are getting raped in the trucks as we speak.

http://i17.ebayimg.com/04/i/000/7d/47/f54f_12.JPG

[boozi]

a perfect time to stop playing. stop before it's too late! ;)
True that... The addiction just takes over some of our lives doesn't it? :P I'm glad I never liked the game ^^

Anyways.... Guys... All you're talking about is the bonus, but.... What about the game?! I know that the bonus is so "sexy" and all, but how's the game play? Provide some feedback about that onegai shimasu (please) ^^

[Z-Saber]

So... you think there will be bonuses left on Friday or Saturday, which would be the soonest I can grab it?

[theshadeofopal@yahoo.com]

Anyone played the bonus disc on a pc yet? The song names occasionally misspelled and two of the tracks (15&35) are titled you Gded (the combination of two words christians don't like mixing together) Bathead. Kinda wish they put more effort in to the translation and stylus but oh well.

[mbartholow]

Same here, they are usually are nice about shipping methods when you preorder.

Mine says USA Ground, no mention of a bump up to 3-day UPS (I too used the SAVER code). Anyone have any experience with the value shipping? I'm in Western PA, where's the distrib center?

[stainremover]

So... you think there will be bonuses left on Friday or Saturday, which would be the soonest I can grab it?

as long as you preordered you should be fine. at my store they're giving them out by preorder date. although... i don't know how long they will hold it for. maybe you should call to confirm.

[Nogib]

I just listed 3 castlevania portrait of ruin bundles including the 20th anniversary limited edition goodies on ebay starting at .99 if anyone needs one. 3-5-7 day auctions. I kept 1 for myself ;) . If you need a pink ds for this xmas as well, i them too. Just thought I'd let ya know if anyone is interested!

F.O.A.D. You aren't doing any CAGs a "favor" by hoarding free stuff and listing it on eBay.

[TheShiz]

i "preordered" yesterday at two gamestops, got lucky and got the bonus at one, cancelled the preorder at the other.

I would say you are very lucky if you can get this without pre-ordering, the one I got was lucky, I was one of the last to get it.

[boozi]

Mine says USA Ground, no mention of a bump up to 3-day UPS (I too used the SAVER code). Anyone have any experience with the value shipping? I'm in Western PA, where's the distrib center?
Mine was shipped from KY and it's already in MD (I'm in Rockville, MD). It was shipped yesterday, so hopefully it'll be here a day earlier ^^

[M1C13]

we only had two preorders and and we got 4 bonuses so me and the manager each got to take one home. We also got two Metal Gear solid PSP cases with NO preorders

[suko_32]

Got one at EB. They kept the bonuses for people who preordered early so I managed to get it. This is like the first time I'm happy with how they worked the bonuses.

[6669]

In case anyone wants pictures:
So thats what it would look like if I opened it :lol:

[coltcannon]

I really dont care about the box just the stuff in it.

Also anyone ebaying these is a douchbag.

[FFMooglestar]

So thats what it would look like if I opened it :lol:

Assholes at GameCrazy opened my Pre-Order bonus... fuckers.

[banpeikun]

Man, I'm starting to hate some of these store employees. I had preorders at three stores just to make sure I got my bonus (which I'm now glad I did). 2 days ago, I call two of the stores to ask about the bonus, to which they said they had them and you can't get them until you go to pick up your game on Wednesday (today). So since both gave me the same line, I didn't bother calling the third.

So I go in to the first store. The guy rings up my game, so I ask for the preorder. He says they don't have anymore, they only had one and he gave it away. So I'm like, that's impossible. I called and they said they had enough to cover each reserve. The guy is like, we don't have any more. I don't know what to tell you. Oh and by the way preordering does not guarantee you a bonus.

So I tell him to call his manager, and he says I can come talk to the manager tomorrow. So I tell him again to call his manager, and he does. Except he goes into the back room to talk to the manager where I can't hear. Anyhow, when he comes out he brings my preorder bonus which he "found." Okay, whatever.

Second GS I go to gives me no problem, they do everything right.

Third GS I go to says they didn't get any preorder bonuses in. I disagree, so the guy's like, oh yeah, we got some, but just like two. I said there should have been enough to cover preorders, esp mine since I preordered in October. The guy's like sorry, they're all gone. Wait, let me call the manager, yeah he says they're all gone. We only got two. Want to sign up on a list so we can call you if we get more in somehow??? No thanks. Never preordering anything at THAT store again.

So in the end, out of three stores, only one did it right and was honest. One tried to rip me of and then recanted under pressure. One totally ripped me off of my preorder bonus. Probably gave them to people who reserved the game over the weekend or something. Or maybe the employees took them home themselves.

Good thing I kind of anticipated them. Hate teh GS.

[banpeikun]

anyone else think this thread title looks like an ebay auction title?

[tonkotsu]

man, that's some horrible customer service stories.

[furyk]

I was given my bonus on Saturday since the CS rep recognized me. I was very appreciative of it too. My opinion of GS/EB has gone up quite a bit from how that was handled.

[boozi]

Gah, the artbook looks "sexy" as hell :P

[BrerDan]

Just to give an alternative positive note.....

I ordered Castlevania online. Who knows if I'll get the bonus properly!!

BUT, back when Nintendogs first came out I had preordered really early so I could get the little lunchbag bonus. When I went to pick up the game on release day, the salesperson said they didn't arrive but they would call me when they arrived. He also suggested I contact the headquarters becuase they might be able to mail it.

So, what happened?

I contacted the headquarters and they very kindly mailed me the bonus at no charge. Further, I DID get a call a week later from the original store to let me know the bnouses had come in and I could get one (I was honest and told him I had already received it).

Bottom line: *sometimes* they *are* being honest.

I know, I know. It doesn't change all the bad experiences. Still, I like to remember the positive things sometimes happen too.

[MSI Magus]

ya, it's rocket science opening that ds game case, lol, takes a true pro!

Again submitting my view(take note shipwreck)that we start banning people that say crap like this. Im sick of seeing people come here and post crap that makes it obvious they come here to make money and make money alone.

[Kendro]

Assholes at GameCrazy opened my Pre-Order bonus... fuckers.

WTF? How is that possible? Did they say, "Sorry bro, but we wanted to see what it looked like inside and your bonus was the guinea pig?"

[PRGuitarman]

*Skips past all the pages* For those of you interested in the Soundtrack, I've uploaded it here
http://www.sendspace.com/file/pnu0it
Enjoy :D

[cheapfrag]

Pre-ordered it yesterday and got the game and bonus today. It pays to be in a small town!

[theandyman85]

Preordered mine last week from one of the Buffalo, NY GS stores (the Boulevard Mall for anyone who lives in the area). I specifically asked the rep about the bonuses and he said "nah, you will get one without a problem, I'll put one on order right now just to be sure". Sure enough I get there get the game and he goes to the back and brings me the bonus with no problems and this was about 3pm today, not really early or anything.
Comparing a couple of the stories here it looks like I should be thankful for having a trustworthy GS down the road.

[spincut]

WARNING TO THOSE WHO ORDERED FROM EB/GS BY MAIL!

My package (see my earlier, ironic post) did come in a padded envelope. The ol' bonus box is crushed.

Fucking fuckers.

while i had, at times, thought that part of paying for better shipping is better packaging (since UPS geneally has their own type of boxes) that seems to be changing (i thought Amazon ALWAYS had some sort of stiff branded cardboard packaging, for instance) but one thing still hold true:

While i havent received it yet, i have a big feeling that Konami.com will have packaged them better. While the cost ended up being similar, they did not charge the extra 5 bucks, just simply more for shipping with no saver option, this hinted to me that their shipping policy was a little more luxurious, as even the cheapest option wasnt too cheap. So generally, not the best deal, but after i had to exchange my FF CE because the post office guy squeezed into my tiny suqare mailbox and it was scraped because i ordered saver and it was in a soft envelope, i chose Konami since they were actually more expensive.

Although i havent received it yet (sprang for two day shipping, as it was still the same price as GS and i'm moving so i need it to come asap) it's coming tomorow and i'm betting UPS gave it a nice box, especially since all their options were UPS and 2-day almost always has custom packing.

[CheapLikeAFox]

Although i havent received it yet (sprang for two day shipping, as it was still the same price as GS and i'm moving so i need it to come asap) it's coming tomorow and i'm betting UPS gave it a nice box, especially since all their options were UPS and 2-day almost always has custom packing.



You must like to talk since thats a long way to say you think your getting a nicer box.


FYI I have seen some UPS Express envelopes that are plastic and thin as a plastic bag so I think it depends more on the sender than UPS' own packaging.

[Duffclown65]

My customer service story.

So I see someone on these boards (I can't remember the name, but major credit and thanks) that one of the managers told them they'd be getting these in tomorrow (Last Friday). I call up Friday and they put me on hold to check. 6 minutes later, the other employee picks up the phone.

"Hi welcome to Gamestop (preorder jibber jabber)"

"Hi did you guys get in the Castlevania preorder bonuses?"

"Yes we did."

"Should there be enough for all the reserves?"

"Yes, but you had to of reserved it to get one."

"I reserved it"

"Ya, there should be enough

Next day rolls around I go up there

(cordially) "Did you guys get the Castlevania preorder bonuses in?

"Yes, but you had to of preordered in order to get it."

"Okay cool, I'd like to get it now."

"No, you had to of preordered. Would you like to do that now?"

"I already did" **looks up my preorder**

"Yeah, 5 dollars."

"Can I get the bonus"

**Looks in preorder cabinet below register**

"Sorry man, we don't have it in"

"I called up here yesterday and you guys confirmed you had it in."

Clerk goes into the back to see the guy who worked there yesterday got the call.

Comes back, looks in the preorder cabinet again, and another clerk points it out to the side. I get my bonus and get outta there.

Yeesh. I'm just glad I got it.

[allyourblood]

Although i havent received it yet (sprang for two day shipping, as it was still the same price as GS and i'm moving so i need it to come asap) it's coming tomorow and i'm betting UPS gave it a nice box, especially since all their options were UPS and 2-day almost always has custom packing.

in all the years i've been ordering online, i've never found UPS to have boxed anything, regardless of shipping method (ground, 3 day, overnite, etc). now, i've had UPS-branded boxes, but those were chosen and packed by the seller, and not UPS. i think it's just gonna come down to what Konami themselves decides to use (hopefully, a box).

[spincut]

You must like to talk since thats a long way to say you think your getting a nicer box.


FYI I have seen some UPS Express envelopes that are plastic and thin as a plastic bag so I think it depends more on the sender than UPS' own packaging.

your criticism is not necesary, as thats not all i was saying, i was also giving me thoughts on whether paying more gives you better shipping or if some places give you envelopes no matter what, and "why" i think Konami may use a nicer box.

in all the years i've been ordering online, i've never found UPS to have boxed anything, regardless of shipping method (ground, 3 day, overnite, etc). now, i've had UPS-branded boxes, but those were chosen and packed by the seller, and not UPS. i think it's just gonna come down to what Konami themselves decides to use (hopefully, a box).

Effectively, thats what i meant, whether Konami.com springs for the nicer box or they simply just get it by being a UPS only dealer.

[Mikko]

The Gamestop I preordered at claimed it was "lost" or possibly "stolen" by an unknown party. I'm giving them a week, and then i'm cancelling my preorder with them. I figured something like this was going to go down. If I have to cancel my preorder i'm going to be sure to ask to speak to a manager first though. It's completely unacceptable for a store who offers a preorder bonus to keep them for themselves or for their employees to steal them.

[paean]

The Gamestop I preordered at claimed it was "lost" or possibly "stolen" by an unknown party. I'm giving them a week, and then i'm cancelling my preorder with them. I figured something like this was going to go down. If I have to cancel my preorder i'm going to be sure to ask to speak to a manager first though. It's completely unacceptable for a store who offers a preorder bonus to keep them for themselves or for their employees to steal them.

This happened to me when I preordered MGS3 Subsitence, they gave it all away to friends and themselves before hand. That's why I won't bother to preorder from their B&M store again.

[cycophuk]

So I go into the GS and ask for my pre-order. The clerk throws the game on the counter and prints out my receipt for me the sign. I look at him and ask, "Where is the rest of it?" He tells me he has no clue what I'm talking about. I tell him that the game should have come with a bonus. He tells me again that he has no clue what I mean. I explain to him about the bonus and what all comes with it. He asks the other guy if that came in and the other guy says he never saw it. The clerk then says quite quickly, "Well, we'll just refund your money.". Remaining calm, I ask him to call around to some of the other stores to see if they got any extras in I could pick up. He just stares at me blankly and again recommends refunding my money. I then pick up an issue of Game Imformer that has a small section about the bonus and show him what it looks like. For 5 MINUTES he reads and re-reads the little blurb. I ask him once again to call around when all of a sudden he goes, "OH!" and walks to the other side of the counter and pulls out the bonus. As he walks over to me, he OPENS my bonus and pulls out the contents so that he could show me what it is. HE then tells me that his manager took care of the pre-orders and for some reason, seperated the bonus from the game. I did also find out that I was the only one that pre-ordered the game from that location. To me, it explains why my bonus was on the opposite side of my game.

[allyourblood]

it seems lots of folks have preordered in-store, in order to avoid the disappointment of not receiving a bonus pack. now i'm reading about all sorts of GS stores not having any in stock, or at least claiming such. personally, i ordered online for this very reason. i figured if i ordered early (back in Oct) online, i could avoid driving from place to place to get one. i think i'm gonna go with that next time too, seeing as a lot of B&Ms are handing out the shaft.

[kaiyouske]

I preordered mine from Game Crazy. Went in, got my game and preorder goodie without saying anything. Pretty sweet.

[dracula]

The Gamestop I preordered at claimed it was "lost" or possibly "stolen" by an unknown party. I'm giving them a week, and then i'm cancelling my preorder with them. I figured something like this was going to go down. If I have to cancel my preorder i'm going to be sure to ask to speak to a manager first though. It's completely unacceptable for a store who offers a preorder bonus to keep them for themselves or for their employees to steal them.

this happens at some stores, the employees feel entitled to whatever they can get their hands on. I was fortunate the people at the store dont do that. you can try asking for the district managers phone number and tell him that there are some shady employees at whatever store gaffled your preorder

[allyourblood]

i'm almost entirely convinced that a lot of these "oh yeah!" employees are making every effort to not hand out the bonus pack, so they can pinch a few for themselves.

back in my day (wink), the people working at GS and EB weren't gamers, or online-savvy, and that was the way we liked it. it meant you could come in and shop in peace, and not expect these recent tactics from the clerk.

[allyourblood]

I preordered mine from Game Crazy. Went in, got my game and preorder goodie without saying anything. Pretty sweet.

woah. just by your presence, they divined what you wanted and rang it up? awesome. :lol:

[Roufuss]

it seems lots of folks have preordered in-store, in order to avoid the disappointment of not receiving a bonus pack. now i'm reading about all sorts of GS stores not having any in stock, or at least claiming such. personally, i ordered online for this very reason. i figured if i ordered early (back in Oct) online, i could avoid driving from place to place to get one. i think i'm gonna go with that next time too, seeing as a lot of B&Ms are handing out the shaft.

Online has just as many issues sending out the bonuses... and lets hope yours dosen't get crushed, either.

[endlessPRO]

can I still order it right now and get the bonus with the game or will it come without the bonus

[paddlefoot]

this happens at some stores, the employees feel entitled to whatever they can get their hands on. I was fortunate the people at the store dont do that. you can try asking for the district managers phone number and tell him that there are some shady employees at whatever store gaffled your preorder

Can't they just either pre-order a game or pre-order it from another store when they find out about this stuff? Or is it basically that they want the bonuses without buying the game?

[superfuzz]

Went to eb today to pick up my preorder.The clerk hands me the game,I'm like what about the the bonus,"oh 'he says,opens the back of the case and pulls out the bonus.I got mine,but it's bullshit I had to ask for it.If you preorder something,you should just get the free shit.That is the point of preorder,right?
I do understand you have a shitty job,and it's nice to get free shit,but don't screw over the people that preorder.Fill the orders,then if some are left,take them.Bastards!

[allyourblood]

Online has just as many issues sending out the bonuses... and lets hope yours dosen't get crushed, either.

well, it's got other issues, but i think the human element is somewhat removed, in regards to someone physically keeping my bonus pack. a little crushing is okay, as long as the contents are intact. i'd like for the bonus to arrive in mint condish, but i'm realistic about it. overall, i'll take a smushed bonus pack over no bonus pack. i mean, heck, it's free.

[allyourblood]

Went to eb today to pick up my preorder.The clerk hands me the game,I'm like what about the the bonus,"oh 'he says,opens the back of the case and pulls out the bonus.I got mine,but it's bullshit I had to ask for it.If you preorder something,you should just get the free shit.That is the point of preorder,right?
yeah, that "oh" seems to be code for "snap -- i wanted to keep that for myself". yeah, maybe they genuinely forgot, but it's their job to be aware of these things. that's like going thru the drive-thru at some fast food joint, pulling up to the "second window", and having them just stare at you. "uh, you gonna give me my order?".... "oh, you wanted that food? oops, here ya go."

[nintendofreak94]

I picked the game with the preorder bonus today at Game Crazy.

[Kendro]

:rofl:These employee "oh yeah, THAT bonus" stories are great. Please keep 'em coming.

[Gainer]

wow, even though mine told me I'd have to wait an extra week, at least the employee knew I wanted the bonus (didn't have to ask extra) and it was actually kept. (though it was crushed quite thoroughly...) The bonus ties all the castlevanias into a continumn that I never quite saw after the original gameboy ones started being released (and the genisis one) so now I want them all. Where's the 20th aniversary all of them on 1 cd pack?

[VidgamesgivemeA_D_D]

Went to eb today to pick up my preorder.The clerk hands me the game,I'm like what about the the bonus,"oh 'he says,opens the back of the case and pulls out the bonus.I got mine,but it's bullshit I had to ask for it.If you preorder something,you should just get the free shit.That is the point of preorder,right?
I do understand you have a shitty job,and it's nice to get free shit,but don't screw over the people that preorder.Fill the orders,then if some are left,take them.Bastards!

Ok like the previous post said there's been some good "oh yeah" stories, but this one is kinda lame. OMG you had to ask for it???????!!!!!!!! big whoop. These are minimum wage employees who are overworked, expected to make x amount of sales every month with no commishion. They basically get crapped out by a greedy company, cut them a break. You got your preorder, did you not?

[lunchboxfett]

I had to have my wife pick my copy up because I am out of town and was worried that they would be gone by the time I get back. She went in this morning when they opened and they said they didn't have them yet. So when she went back in the afternoon to pick it up the guy just gave her the game. She asked about the bonus stuff, (I told her to not pay for it unless it came with), the guy said well you had to pre-order to get the bonus. After she stated that she did pre-order and here is my slip he gave it to her. I could be wrong but I think the guy was trying to keep it as well.
The good news is that I have it on order from another store as well and when the store called to tell me it was in they said that they would hold it until I got back. So my brother will be happy when Christmas gets here.

[onikage]

I picked up my game and bonus today without any problems. The soundtrack is awesome, much better than I had expected.