GameStop Return Policy: Everything a Gamer Needs to Know
The GameStop return policy is fairly strict, especially when it comes to opened games and consumers trying to return items without a receipt. It’s with this in mind that I wanted to dig deep into their return policy and get an answer to all your burning questions. Without further ado, here’s exactly how the return policy works at GameStop. I hope it helps.
How Many Return Days Does GameStop Give?
15 days.
You have exactly 15 days to return stuff to GameStop.
It’s also worth noting that refunds are issued to the original form of payment.
The only exception to this is cash purchases over $150.
You’ll have to wait 14 business days to be issued a check from the corporate office.
Are There Any Exceptions to the 15 Days?
Yes, there are a couple exceptions:
– Unopened New Tablets – You have 14 days to get a full refund.
– Downloadable Content – Gamestop does not offer a refund or exchange of any kind.
See Also: Newegg Return Policy: Let’s Make Sense Of a Complicated Policy
Can Items Be Opened?
If you bought the game or gaming console new, it absolutely cannot be opened if you want to return it for a refund.
Be aware that GameStop considers games “opened” once the shrink wrap is removed.
This is ABSOUTELY ridiculous, how are you suppose to know if the console is broken or not working WITHOUT opening it?
If it’s opened, your only option is an identical exchange within 15 days of your purchase.
This protects you if the product is damaged through no fault of your own.
Do I Need My Receipt to Return Items?
YES!
Perhaps more than other store, you need to guard your GameStop receipts with the highest security.
This makes sense as their return policy could easily be abused by gamers if they didn’t require proof of purchase.
Without your receipt, you’re up a stinky creek without a paddle.
What About Returning Pre-Owned Titles?
This is where their return policy is kinda cool, but also opens them up to some abuse by gamers.
When buying pre-owned games, they give you 7 days to return the item for a full refund, EVEN if opened.
Great way to test out games as you really have nothing to lose if the game turns out to be dumb.
After your 7 days are up, GameStop still gives you 15 days to do an identical exchange.
Warning: Don’t abuse this policy as you take the risk of being banned from future returns.
What About Returning Items Bought Online?
You have two options when buying from their website:
You can either return your purchase to any GameStop location, or you can send it back using the return shipping label that came with your order.
Be aware that all of the above info pertains to both online and in-store purchase. Namely, you NEED your receipt or packing slip to be eligible for a return.
NOTE: DON’T mail back opened games as Gamestop “does not issue refunds for non-qualifying items and cannot return the items to you.”
In other words, you’ll never see your game or money again.
See Also: Target Return Policy: Smart Tips and Tricks to Make It Work
What About Returning Gaming Accessories?
GameStop is a little more lenient when it comes to returning accessories.
You can get a full refund on opened or unopened accessories within 15 days of purchase.
Other Return Policy Tidbits…
“Bundled” Products – If you try to return an item that was part of a bundle, they’ll refuse your return.
Get a Credit for Handling Costs – If you’re returning an item via the mail, which was bought online, you’re eligible for a handling credit if the reason for the return is an error on the part of GameStop. Call them at 1-800-883-8895 to request your credit.
Defective Products After 30 Days – At this point the manufacturer’s warranty will apply to defective video games, systems and computer hardware.
Ask the Reader: What’s been your experience with the GameStop return policy?
By Kyle James
Photo Credit to Mike Mozart.
I started Rather-Be-Shopping.com in 2000 and have become a consumer expert and advocate writing about out-of-the-box ways to save at stores like Amazon, Walmart, Target and Costco to name a few. I’ve been featured on FOX News, Good Morning America, and the NY Times talking about my savings tips. (Learn more)
I find it all depends on the store. I used to go to my local store for returns and even worked there but they always gave me weird looks and beer seemed to helped me. As a result, I ended travelling to another store that always helps me with any issues without any fuss on defective product exchanges. I never abused their policy but some employees can be jerks even when you worked there when it comes to any refund or exchange while other employees are really nice about it and they help you out with any problems.
How about selling games
How are you supposed to know if the product is damaged if you never open it lmfao?
That is also I cannot understand! I just bought this Xbox series last Sunday July 3, 2022 and even bought an additional warranty protection plan worth $54.99. Of course when I got home I need to open the box to see the console and tried to operate it to check if it is even working. So after 2 days there a lot of issues that I’m not happy so I decided to return today July 7 2022 where I bought it bringing my receipt and the warranty protection plan but the lady cashier told me that since it was open we cannot return anymore. But how am I going to see the item inside and check it without even opening it?
what if the controller came with a code forbonus content? Do you also get to code if something is pre owned?
Nope no extra bonus content is included with pre owned unless it’s like a special edition of the game and has your bonus content already on the disc/game aka:dlc (download content) if it’s not then your extra content that says comes with will when bought new will have a code to put in to claim the bonus content/or dltzx)
But GameStop is shipping new games opened with their stickers on the container? How can you return them as unopened?
What does it mean by “identical exchange”
I bought a PS5 from game stop. I spent about $1000 on the game and accessories. Long story short they refuse to give me a refund for my broken game system. I was told because I opened the box I can’t get a refund. This makes no sense!! I can’t know it’s broke without opening the box.