Game, the high-street chain, will soon discontinue its trade-in service for physical video games, causing worries about the future of the 32-year-old retailer.
According to reports, Game, which is owned by Frasers Group, will no longer allow customers to trade in physical video games starting from next month. The company recently announced the closure of several stores.
Eurogamer first reported that Game is expected to retire its long-running trade-in facility on 16 February. The remaining pre-owned stock will be sold until supplies run out.
If you have any pre-loved games that you want to trade for other titles, you have about a month left to do so.
Concerns over the Future of Game
Many fans of Game believe that this move could potentially spell the end for the popular video game chain. Some argue that the rise of digital games, price increases, and uncompetitive prices have contributed to its decline.
One observer commented on X (formerly Twitter), saying, "This looks like it could soon be the end of Game. Used to be so much better 12-15 years ago. Digital games, price increases, and uncompetitive prices have killed it."
Another individual expressed disappointment, stating, "With a lot of gamers going all digital and some big new releases not even coming out as a physical copy (Spider-Man 2, Alan Wake 2), Game are now little more than glorified toy shops sadly."
Game's Current Status
Despite closing several standalone stores, Game still operates in over 240 locations across the UK. The retailer has also gained concessions inside other Frasers-owned outlets, such as Sports Direct and House of Fraser.
However, some customers have criticized Game for its trade-in prices and lack of stock in stores. One observer remarked, "Their trade-in prices were absolutely rubbish anyway, they're expensive and they never actually have anything in stock in the stores."
Future of Physical Video Game Trade-Ins
With Game discontinuing its trade-in service, CeX will become one of the few remaining brick-and-mortar video game trade-in sites on high streets. While this is currently seen as positive, concerns have been raised about the potential negative impact in the long term.
A gamer noted, "CeX has had better trade-in prices for years. This is just another nail in the coffin for Game."
However, another individual cautioned, "But when CeX becomes the only player (excluding a few independent stores) in the game, their trade-in prices will decrease."
HOAR has reached out to Game for comment.
