GAME, one of the UK’s major video game retailers, has revealed that it will no longer allow customers to trade in their used video games for store credit or a gift card beginning next month. Trade-ins at GAME are scheduled to officially cease on February 16, according to Eurogamer, which learned of the news from retail staff, while existing stock of pre-owned titles are expected to be available until they sell out.
GAME’s trade-in FAQ as of 1/15:
- GAME accepts most consoles, games, and gaming accessories.
- If you are happy with the quote, the funds can be put on your GAME Wallet, a gift card, or against a purchase there and then.
- Alternatively, you can use our online trade-in portal to send your items to us.
- Please note we no longer accept retro consoles and games (including PlayStation 2, GameCube, Game-boy, or older).
GAME offers pre-owned items under a three-tiered grading system:
- PRISTINE CONDITION – A GRADE
- Cosmetically pristine condition with no marks and scratches anywhere
- Includes official controller
- Includes original box
- GOOD CONDITION – B GRADE
- Good general condition – nothing more than slight cosmetic marks or scratches anywhere
- Includes official controller
- Includes all working cables
- may not include original box
- FAIR CONDITION – C GRADE
- Item is in a reasonable, saleable condition with some cosmetic marks or scratches
- May not include original box
- Includes all working cables
- Includes working controller
Quotes from a 2023 interview with GAME boss Nick Arran:
- “We trade from over 300 locations – 90 standalone GAME stores and 170 concessions in House of Fraser and Sports Direct.”
- “Gaming is our core business and we will be last man standing selling physical video games.”
- “We are one of the very few, if not only, retailers that offer trade-in still. We can see consumers moving to that to help towards their purchases more than ever.”
GAME staff have been told of the change, and Eurogamer has corroborated this with multiple branches of the retailer nationwide. We’ve contacted GAME itself for more.
Source: Eurogamer