Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Pocket Gamer: How to get Trophies in used Vita games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/pocket-gamer-how-to-get-trophies-in-used-vita-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/pocket-gamer-how-to-get-trophies-in-used-vita-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/pocket-gamer-how-to-get-trophies-in-used-vita-games/#comments We've seen Sony's own tips and tricks for the Vita, but as the device ages (six days old already!) more and more will appear, as Pocket Gamer shows with its tutorial that explains how to renew trophy-earning functionality in used Vita games.

Upon booting up a pre-owned Vita title, players will get a screen that reads, "You cannot earn trophies in this application. Only the first player to use an application can earn trophies. To earn trophies, you must link the Sony Entertainment Network account of the first player to use this application with the PS Vita system." Pocket Gamer says the following steps will render that warning useless:
  1. Go to the main menu and hold down the screen for two seconds, until little bubbles appear on the upper-right side of each game's icon. Hit the bubble you want and click "Delete."
  2. A screen reading "All data related to this application will be deleted" will pop up. Hit "OK."
  3. Load the game and you should be good to go.
This process won't delete the previous player's trophies, Pocket Gamer adds.

JoystiqPocket Gamer: How to get Trophies in used Vita games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-vitaPre-ownedSONYtipstrickstrophiesused-gamesvitaWed, 29 Feb 2012 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop sees majority of digital sales from cash; won't pursue used PC game sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/gamestop-sees-majority-of-digital-sales-from-cash-wont-pursue/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/gamestop-sees-majority-of-digital-sales-from-cash-wont-pursue/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/gamestop-sees-majority-of-digital-sales-from-cash-wont-pursue/#comments GameStop is building its digital distribution business, having seen a 158 percent growth year-over-year in the third quarter, with strong returns thanks to customers who don't use credit cards.

"70 percent of our sales for DLC is non credit card. So that's a customer either paying with cash, GameStop gift card or trade credit," Steve Nix, manager of PC digital distribution for GameStop told us at DICE 2012. "Think about all those Call of Duty Elite subscriptions and all those customers who aren't using a credit card to purchase them."

"We're actually growing [the downloadable content] market, because about half our DLC customers never purchased DLC previously. So, for game developers that want to sell more DLC, we're introducing gamers to DLC for the first time in our stores."

Nix recognized that it may seem odd the retail chain's brick and mortar stores are so successful selling digital content. It's clearly servicing customers who don't have credit cards or don't want to use credit cards, but still wish to extend their favorite games. He "absolutely" feels this same situation is what's pushing their in-store PC full game sales, despite PC gamers having so many online purchasing options.

Since Gamestop purchased Stardock's Impulse digital distribution store, we wanted to know if it would continue to pursue Goo, which would have essentially created a "used PC games market."

Nixing the idea, he said "We don't see a lot of interest in that model from our publishing partners." He recognizes customers would be interested, but is not really seeing publisher support for such a model.

JoystiqGameStop sees majority of digital sales from cash; won't pursue used PC game sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-modern-warfare-3Dice-2012Gamestopmodern-warfare-3pcSteve-Nixusedused-gamesFri, 10 Feb 2012 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Canadian EB Games stores merging used and new game shelves]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/rumor-canadian-eb-games-stores-merging-used-and-new-game-shelve/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/rumor-canadian-eb-games-stores-merging-used-and-new-game-shelve/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/rumor-canadian-eb-games-stores-merging-used-and-new-game-shelve/#comments Employees of Canadian EB Games stores wrote in to Kotaku to alert the site to an alleged new policy that will make your attempts to shop there even more difficult. According to the tipsters, Canadian EB's will no longer have dedicated areas for used and new games. For each platform, the two will share the exact same wall space.

In addition, used games will be marked with white price stickers, just like new games. To make matters worse, one employee said that new games are to be buried behind the used ones.

Another Canadian EB employee told Kotaku that these claims aren't accurate, and we have yet to see anything official from EB/GameStop, so don't start boycotting EB just yet -- at least not just in response to this issue.

JoystiqRumor: Canadian EB Games stores merging used and new game shelves originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadaeb-gamesgamestopretailused-gamesWed, 23 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Used and digital sales make up 35% of total console spending in the US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/report-used-and-digital-sales-make-up-35-of-total-console-spen/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/report-used-and-digital-sales-make-up-35-of-total-console-spen/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/report-used-and-digital-sales-make-up-35-of-total-console-spen/#comments American gamers buy more used and digitally distributed games than their European doppelgangers, according to a study released by market analysis firm NewZoo. The organization's statistical findings show that 23 percent of console games purchased in the U.S. are used; slightly more than the European market where used games account for 20 percent of total console sales.

Digitally distributed titles rank lower in both regions, taking up 12 percent of the console market in America and 9 percent in Europe. That 12 percent, by the way, represents approximately $960 million, on account of 54 percent of American console owners reportedly spending an average of $49 a year on console downloads.

American PC gaming culture appears to have adopted the idea of digital distribution much faster than the console market, as an estimated 58 percent of all PC gaming dollars are spent on digitally distributed games or DLC. Now, we're no market analysts, but we think the disparity between PC and console download shares has a lot to do with PC gaming's readily available plethora of hats.

JoystiqReport: Used and digital sales make up 35% of total console spending in the US originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributionmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3salesusedused-gameswiixboxMon, 07 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted 3 will use PSN Pass to combat piracy, make money on used games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/uncharted-3-will-use-psn-pass-to-combat-piracy-make-money-on-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/uncharted-3-will-use-psn-pass-to-combat-piracy-make-money-on-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/uncharted-3-will-use-psn-pass-to-combat-piracy-make-money-on-us/#comments Uncharted 3 will use Sony's online pass system, much like we saw with Resistance 3, Sony España Software Manager Juan Jiménez told The Vault. Sony's PSN Pass features a one-time-use code for accessing content on PSN; the code can later be bought for $10 in used games. Jiménez said the pass system is a buffer against piracy, although we bet the added revenue from previously barren used-game sales doesn't exactly make Sony's decision harder.

Uncharted 3 is the second Sony title to use the PSN Pass, but we expect to see it in all of Sony's future mainstream releases, as does Jiménez.

JoystiqUncharted 3 will use PSN Pass to combat piracy, make money on used games originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 01 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>network-passonline-passplaystationps3PSNpsn-passSONYuncharted-3uncharted-3-drakes-deceptionused-gamesSat, 01 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pac-Man & Galaga Dimensions save files are permanent, unable to be reset or erased]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/pac-man-and-galaga-dimensions-save-files-are-permanent-unable-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/pac-man-and-galaga-dimensions-save-files-are-permanent-unable-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/pac-man-and-galaga-dimensions-save-files-are-permanent-unable-to/#comments When Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D dropped earlier this summer without the ability to reset save files, gamers were justifiably mad. And though it's been over a month since that story broke, it seems that another Japanese publisher didn't pick up on the resulting backlash. Namco's latest 3DS title, Pac-Man and Galaga Dimensions regrettably contains that exact issue.

According to Wired's Game|Life blog, there is simply no way to erase a save after it's been written to the cartridge. "I've looked all over, even going so far as to ask a Namco Bandai representative, and it doesn't seem like there's a way to erase the game data," the post reads, noting that this design doesn't just affect the earned in-game awards (which can't be deleted), but also high scores. That means the most recent high score is the only one that the game records -- bizarre!

As Capcom's version of the save file issue sparked reaction from both retail and consumers (and, eventually, Capcom), we've reached out to GameStop for comment about Namco's own misdeeds.

JoystiqPac-Man & Galaga Dimensions save files are permanent, unable to be reset or erased originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsbandai-namcogamestopnamconamco-bandainintendopac-man-and-galaga-dimensionssave-fileused-gamesWed, 27 Jul 2011 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Game retailers go back and forth on Resident Evil: Mercenaries 3D sales policies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/game-retailers-go-back-and-forth-on-resident-evil-mercenaries-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/game-retailers-go-back-and-forth-on-resident-evil-mercenaries-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/game-retailers-go-back-and-forth-on-resident-evil-mercenaries-3/#comments Used games retailers across the globe have adopted a number of uncharacteristic policies regarding sales and trade-ins of Capcom's one-save-only title, Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D. When news of the game's unrestartability first surfaced, North American Gamestops announced they would not accept the game as a trade-in -- a policy which reversed today.

Speaking to IGN, a Gamestop rep explained, "GameStop did ask the U.S. store base to stop accepting trades on Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D as we evaluated the save system for the game." The representative added, "Upon further review of the process with our publisher partner, Capcom, GameStop will resume taking trades on the game effective Wednesday, June 29."

Overseas, British retailer HMV has ceased taking trades for the title -- and EB Games Australia has apparently stopped stocking the game altogether. A representative on the EB Games Facebook group explained, "If you would like to purchase it with us then of course we will sell it to you, it will be a case of an order with our store." They added, "We made the tough decision to remove it from sale because we have everybody's best interests in mind, and don't feel its fair that you guys would be paying $60 for what is essentially a one use game."

JoystiqGame retailers go back and forth on Resident Evil: Mercenaries 3D sales policies originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiacapcomdseb-gamesgamestophmvindustrynintendoresident-evil-the-mercenaries-3dsalesused-gamesWed, 29 Jun 2011 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Warner Bros. joining 'online pass' camp with Mortal Kombat]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/rumor-warner-bros-joining-online-pass-camp-with-mortal-komba/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/rumor-warner-bros-joining-online-pass-camp-with-mortal-komba/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/rumor-warner-bros-joining-online-pass-camp-with-mortal-komba/#comments Warner Bros. may be following in the (very large) footsteps of Electronic Arts and THQ when it comes to discouraging -- or at least profiting from -- the sale of used games. Joystiq has learned from a tipster that when Mortal Kombat hits shelves on April 19, its box will include an "online pass" token that must be redeemed before playing online. At present, WBIE evidently intends to do the same for its high-profile releases F.E.A.R. 3 and Batman: Arkham City. Since the latter won't feature multiplayer, though, the token would have to unlock some other (equally attractive) content.

According to an email obtained from our source, which appears intended for retailers, WBIE won't be promoting the pass -- in fact, no reference to it will appear on the game's packaging. Instead, it is apparently providing retailers with details on the pass, including how to purchase a new one if you're buying a used copy of the game. Unsurprisingly, a new pass will run 800 Microsoft Points / $10 for Xbox 360 and PS3, respectively. As with EA's titles, there will be a free two-day "trial period" before players are prompted to either enter the code or purchase a pass. We've contacted WBIE for comment on this information. You can find an excerpt from the retailer email past the break.

Continue reading Rumor: Warner Bros. joining 'online pass' camp with Mortal Kombat

JoystiqRumor: Warner Bros. joining 'online pass' camp with Mortal Kombat originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftmortal-kombatmortal-kombat-2011Netherrealm-Studiosonline-passplaystationps3used-gamesWarner-BrosWarner-Bros-Interactivewb-gameswbiexboxTue, 29 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Select Walmart stores offering $100 credit toward 3DS with old DS trade-in]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/select-walmart-stores-offering-100-credit-toward-3ds-with-old-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/select-walmart-stores-offering-100-credit-toward-3ds-with-old-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/select-walmart-stores-offering-100-credit-toward-3ds-with-old-d/#comments This Sunday, the 3DS launches in the US and, to celebrate the occasion, US-based megastore Walmart is offering quite the deal for anyone who lives in one of a dozen states. When purchasing the new handheld, consumers in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri, Mississippi, Oklahoma, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and South Carolina will have the option of trading in their used DS for a $100 credit towards their 3DS purchase. If they've got two old DS systems laying around, both can be traded in for $200 towards a 3DS, but that's as high as Walmart's willing to go.

The trade-in program will start this Sunday with the 3DS launch and continue through April 30. This promotion is in-store only -- sorry, no online orders.

JoystiqSelect Walmart stores offering $100 credit toward 3DS with old DS trade-in originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsds-litedsidsi-xlface-raidersnintendotrade-inused-gameswalmartFri, 25 Mar 2011 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: PS3 copies of DC Universe Online tied to one-time-use codes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/ps3-copies-of-dc-universe-online-tied-to-one-time-use-codes/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/ps3-copies-of-dc-universe-online-tied-to-one-time-use-codes/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/ps3-copies-of-dc-universe-online-tied-to-one-time-use-codes/#commentsIf you bought DC Universe Online on PS3 and decided not to commit to it for the usual MMO lifespan of forever, you won't be able to recoup your losses by trading it in. At least, you shouldn't trade it in, even if you find a store who will accept it, or you risk being a super-jerk. Sony Online Entertainment confirmed to Lazygamer that the serial key included with retail copies of the game is a one-time-use thing, and each disc only includes access for one account. That means that the first person to use a copy of DCUO is the only person who can use that copy.

This kind of restriction isn't exactly new to consoles, with trade-ins of every iteration of Phantasy Star Online refused by retailers due to the unique codes tied to each disc. But it's not common -- mostly because MMO-type games on consoles are so uncommon.

JoystiqPSA: PS3 copies of DC Universe Online tied to one-time-use codes originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DC-Universe-Onlinemmoplaystationps3psaretailsony-online-entertainmenttrade-inused-gamesMon, 14 Feb 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameFly's year-end sale deals up used games on the cheap]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/gameflys-year-end-sale-deals-up-used-games-on-the-cheap/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/gameflys-year-end-sale-deals-up-used-games-on-the-cheap/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/gameflys-year-end-sale-deals-up-used-games-on-the-cheap/#comments GameFly has begun its annual year-end sale and some of the prices on used games are just insane. We can tell you right now that you'll probably want to pick up Splinter Cell: Conviction on Xbox 360 for $9.99, Wet on PS3 for a buck more or MadWorld on the Wii for just $8.99 if you haven't played any of those yet. Unfortunately, some of the games on the list are already sold out but, if you hunt through it, there are bargains to find.

With prices this low, we worry that the kids of GameFly employees will have to go without Christmas presents this year -- just so we can finally play The Saboteur for under 12 bucks.

JoystiqGameFly's year-end sale deals up used games on the cheap originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgameflymicrosoftnintendoplaystationpricesps3salesused-gameswiixboxyear-end-saleThu, 23 Dec 2010 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon.co.uk now taking game trade-ins for credit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/11/amazon-co-uk-now-taking-game-trade-ins-for-credit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/11/amazon-co-uk-now-taking-game-trade-ins-for-credit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/11/amazon-co-uk-now-taking-game-trade-ins-for-credit/#comments No longer are our United Kingdom-based friends left with few gaming trade-in options other than ... whatever the British equivalent of Gamestop is (Gamestoppe?). Amazon.co.uk has begun extending the "trade your games and accessories for Amazon credit" program to its shoppers, some eighteen months after the program first arrived on the U.S. Amazon page.

Shoppers interested in hocking their ludological wares in exchange for Amazonian currency can search for eligible games on Amazon's trade-in splash page, and can then print off a shipping label for free. Provided the items are shipped off within seven days, and don't arrive covered in scratches, bodily fluids or crumpet residue, the available credit will show up when the items arrive.

JoystiqAmazon.co.uk now taking game trade-ins for credit originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 Dec 2010 04:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.co.ukeuroperetailtrade-inukused-gamesSat, 11 Dec 2010 04:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: Walmart could 'expand' used game market]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/analyst-walmart-could-expand-used-game-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/analyst-walmart-could-expand-used-game-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/analyst-walmart-could-expand-used-game-market/#comments According to a recent report from Lazard Capital Markets' Colin Sebastian, the firm's "industry checks" have revealed that Walmart has begun selling used games in over 500 of its stores. We decided to perform our own industry check, and the very first Walmart we called (in Tulsa, Oklahoma) was indeed stocking used games. The clerk we spoke to said that the store "just started carrying them." Further investigation revealed that used titles are also available on Walmart's website.

The company revealed plans to begin a used game program earlier this year, and Sebastian believes Walmart will "focus on the deep-value end of the market (e.g., games under $20 ASP)," potentially preventing "overlap" with used game juggernaut GameStop. Cheaper, older games do seem to dominate Walmart's used inventory, although we did spot Rock Band 3 for $50. Assuming Walmart maintains this focus on cheaper games, Sebastian believes the program could "ultimately expand the market for used games."

Sebastian notes that getting into the used game business isn't easy, requiring extensive inventory tracking, refurbishment and restocking. He concludes that it's unlikely for other used game distributors to be as "tightly integrated" as GameStop. We've certainly seen big names try and fail at the used game racket before ... Walmart included.

JoystiqAnalyst: Walmart could 'expand' used game market originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>colin-sebastiandslazard-capital-marketsmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3pspsonyused-gamesWalmartwiixboxFri, 03 Dec 2010 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New NPD report to factor in digital, used, mobile and rental sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/new-npd-report-to-factor-in-digital-used-mobile-and-rental-sal/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/new-npd-report-to-factor-in-digital-used-mobile-and-rental-sal/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/new-npd-report-to-factor-in-digital-used-mobile-and-rental-sal/#commentsChanges to the NPD Group's reporting practices sent a few waves through the game industry earlier this month. Now, NPD's Anita Frazier has explained some of the reasoning behind the change. Frazier notes that NPD has "long acknowledged" that its coverage of only "new physical sales of hardware, software and accessories" doesn't accurately represent consumer spending in the game industry. Furthermore, with new physical sales dwindling this year, Frazier notes that the old NPD reporting practices "caused unnecessary angst" for many industry followers.

In other words, sales of physical game copies simply don't account for all the money pumped into the industry anymore. As such, the NPD will soon release the debut issue of its new report, Games Industry: Total Consumer Spend. While the report still includes data on sales of new games, accessories and hardware, it will also feature data on "used games, rentals, mobile apps, social network games, and digitally acquired content in the U.S."

NPD has had plans to track downloadable sales for over a year now, though this marks the first time we've heard of plans to track so many other forms of spending. Depending on how comprehensive the report is, it could have hefty ramifications for anyone looking to follow industry trends.

JoystiqNew NPD report to factor in digital, used, mobile and rental sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdownloadabledownloadable-contentdsmacmicrosoftmobilenintendonpdnpd-grouppcplaystationps3psprentalsocial-gamessonyused-gameswiixboxWed, 20 Oct 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop's Buy 2, Get 1 Free on pre-owned goods offer is back on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/gamestops-buy-2-get-1-free-on-pre-owned-goods-offer-is-back-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/gamestops-buy-2-get-1-free-on-pre-owned-goods-offer-is-back-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/gamestops-buy-2-get-1-free-on-pre-owned-goods-offer-is-back-on/#comments Every couple of months or so, GameStop gets bored with its usual routine of selling all of its used games and accessories, so it goes on weekend-long tears where it starts giving them away with the purchase of two other items. Fortunately for all of us, this is one of those weekends.

Continue reading Gamestop's Buy 2, Get 1 Free on pre-owned goods offer is back on

JoystiqGamestop's Buy 2, Get 1 Free on pre-owned goods offer is back on originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buy-two-get-onegamestoppre-ownedused-gamesFri, 15 Oct 2010 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys R Us to start selling used games at 500 of its stores]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/toys-r-us-to-start-selling-used-games-at-500-of-its-stores/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/toys-r-us-to-start-selling-used-games-at-500-of-its-stores/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/toys-r-us-to-start-selling-used-games-at-500-of-its-stores/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toys R Us is looking to get in on the used game biz. We know -- back in September, Toys R Us said the opposite, but it would appear that was all a ruse. (That's the last time we let The Giraffes trick us!)

The retailer will sell these used games at 500 of its 850 stores in the US, GameSpot reports. The games -- which are handed over to a third-party company for testing before being sent back to be resold -- will go for no more than $30 each. Those trading in games can do so at an in-store kiosk for gift cards redeemable at any Toys R Us location and through its online store.

JoystiqToys R Us to start selling used games at 500 of its stores originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3pspsonytoys-r-usused-gameswiixboxThu, 16 Sep 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy begins used game trade-in program]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/best-buy-begins-used-game-trade-in-program/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/best-buy-begins-used-game-trade-in-program/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/best-buy-begins-used-game-trade-in-program/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It looks like the "opportunity" Best Buy saw in the used game market has become "reality," as the company is now accepting used game trade-ins at nearly 600 stores in the US (with more stores on the way). Those who trade in games at Best Buy will receive a Best Buy gift card of equivalent value that can be used on anything in the store. Before long, Best Buy will begin selling used titles as well.

Don't bother looking for some fancy, computerized trade-in kiosk either. In most stores, trades are accepted at the customer service desk, while "select locations" have a "dedicated Trade-In desk" inside the games department. If all that human contact is a bit much, you can also trade in games online at Best Buy's pre-owned games site. Gift cards will be mailed within two weeks. Also, "select titles" are eligible for an extra $20 credit. Update: Best Buy has issued a correction: This Sunday, August 29, the store will be offering a $20 gift card for select titles, not a $20 gift card in addition to a title's trade-in value.

The website has a handy estimator to calculate the value of your used games. We're not quite sure what the basis is for trade-in value though, considering Alpha Protocol clocks in at $27 while Mass Effect 2 snags you just $8. If any of you out there take advantage of Best Buy's new program, be sure to let us know about the experience in the comments.

JoystiqBest Buy begins used game trade-in program originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Best-Buydsmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3pspsonyUsed-GameswiixboxThu, 26 Aug 2010 11:39:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ not worried about upsetting used game buyers with new game bonuses]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/thq-not-worried-about-upsetting-used-game-buyers-with-new-game-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/thq-not-worried-about-upsetting-used-game-buyers-with-new-game-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/thq-not-worried-about-upsetting-used-game-buyers-with-new-game-b/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Poor pre-owned game purchasers -- you've been having a really rough time of it this past year, haven't you? Most of the major companies have battled your particular method of shopping tooth and nail by packaging DLC vouchers in with copies of their new games. Cory Ledesma, creative director for WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 (new versions of which offered free DLC and online multiplayer access), recently told CVG, "I don't think we really care whether used game buyers are upset because new game buyers get everything."

Ledesma explained, "We hope people understand that when the game's bought used we get cheated," later adding, "I don't think anyone wants that so in order for us to make strong, high-quality WWE games we need loyal fans that are interested in purchasing the game. We want to award those fans with additional content." That does it -- from now on, we buy all our WWE games new. Not for the DLC, mind you, but because we've got a strict policy against upsetting companies that are in constant contact with professional wrestlers.

JoystiqTHQ not worried about upsetting used game buyers with new game bonuses originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftplaystationps3THQused-gamesWWE-SmackDown-vs-Raw-2011xboxTue, 24 Aug 2010 11:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony 'exploring' idea of Online Pass style system for its titles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/sony-exploring-idea-of-online-pass-style-system-for-its-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/sony-exploring-idea-of-online-pass-style-system-for-its-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/sony-exploring-idea-of-online-pass-style-system-for-its-titles/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In an interview with GamesIndustry.biz, SCE Europe boss Andrew House has suggested that the company is taking a serious look at implementing something similar to EA's Online Pass -- which requires those who buy its titles used to pay $10 to play them online -- with its first-party games. "On the principle of making online portions of the game available or unlocked from the disc-based release for a fee, we're broadly supportive of that," House said. "And we're exploring actively the same option for our own content."

House admitted that such a system could be perceived as contradictory to Sony's long-running pitch of PlayStation Network's free online play model. "In terms of just a charge for basic online play, that's something that we have to talk about a lot more," he said. "We struggle with [that] a little bit because we feel very vindicated and base a lot of the success of PSN today -- a 70 percent connection rate across consoles -- on the fact that we've removed that major initial barrier to entry."

Still, Sony has already dabbled with charging to enable online play for used (or, in the following instance, likely pirated) PSP titles like SOCOM Fireteam Bravo 3. In this case, the game included an online activation code which, if already used or otherwise non-existent, could be replaced for a $20 fee.

JoystiqSony 'exploring' idea of Online Pass style system for its titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Aug 2010 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-houseonline-passplaystationproject-ten-dollarps3sonyused-gamesMon, 23 Aug 2010 18:50:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop misses earnings target, used games make up biggest profits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/gamestop-misses-earnings-target-used-games-make-up-biggest-prof/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/gamestop-misses-earnings-target-used-games-make-up-biggest-prof/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/gamestop-misses-earnings-target-used-games-make-up-biggest-prof/#commentsFiled under: , ,

[Image by moe_ on Flickr]
Despite 99 new stores, continued strong used game sales and better performance than the rest of the retail video game industry, GameStop reported less-than-expected earnings for this year's second quarter, and delivered a fall forecast lower than analysts expected. Analysts were looking for $1.82 billion in sales this past quarter, but apparently the $1.8 billion GameStop earned in actual sales (31.4 percent of which came from used game sales) just wasn't good enough.

Additionally, GameStop executives tried to convince analysts that they'd actually be saving money by spending $10 on a membership card and subscription to Game Informer, but analysts weren't interested, claiming that "all they wanted was to play Red Dead Redemption." Further attempts to sell the card also failed, despite assurances of 10 percent off used game purchases in the future.

JoystiqGameStop misses earnings target, used games make up biggest profits originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsearningsforecastgamestopq2-2010used-gamesFri, 20 Aug 2010 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop offering buy two, get one free sale on used games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/gamestop-offering-buy-two-get-one-free-sale-on-used-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/gamestop-offering-buy-two-get-one-free-sale-on-used-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/gamestop-offering-buy-two-get-one-free-sale-on-used-games/#comments If your video gaming archive possesses a few shameful gaps, you might want to turn your attention to a promotion Gamestop's running from today until Saturday. Both online and in-store shoppers who purchase two used games or accessories can grab a third used item of equal or lesser value for free.

Continue reading Gamestop offering buy two, get one free sale on used games

JoystiqGamestop offering buy two, get one free sale on used games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buy-two-get-onedsgamestopmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3pspused-gameswiixboxThu, 15 Jul 2010 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Walmart trying used games market again]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/walmart-trying-used-games-market-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/walmart-trying-used-games-market-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/walmart-trying-used-games-market-again/#comments Walmart is taking another pass at the used games market after it appeared to bow out months ago. IndustryGamers reports that Walmart - the international mega conglomerate that likely sold you your hamper - informed the site in a statement that it's "currently working with Game Trade, a start-up services provider, in a lease agreement to test their Game Trade stores in five Walmart locations."

According to Walmart, the locations will offer "previously-owned" games, movies and entertainment hardware for "store credit or cash." Considering any monkey reading a spreadsheet can see the monumental amounts of cash GameStop reaps from used games, it's no wonder that even a mega-corp like Walmart wants a piece. We also hear Weyland-Yutani is interested in the used games market to fund some special projects.

JoystiqWalmart trying used games market again originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 May 2010 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessMicrosoftused-gameswalmartXbox-360Mon, 10 May 2010 16:03:00 EST<![CDATA[7-Eleven to begin selling used games for $20 and below]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/7-eleven-to-begin-selling-used-games-for-20-and-below/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/7-eleven-to-begin-selling-used-games-for-20-and-below/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/7-eleven-to-begin-selling-used-games-for-20-and-below/#comments
[Flickr user Emples]
Beloved Slurpee vendor 7-Eleven plans to nab a share of the video game re-sale market by soon offering budget-priced pre-owned titles as part of a partnership with Game Trading Technologies, which announced the program today. The new initiative, excitedly dubbed "GREAT GAMES BELOW $20," is currently being introduced into more than 3,000 U.S. 7-Elevens (or roughly 50 percent of all franchises), with plans to eventually extend the service to most locations. "The program is available to all 7-Eleven U.S. franchisees, and we hope to have most U.S. stores on board by September," said GTT president Todd Hays.

The partnership will have GTT providing 7-Elevens with a "broad selection" of used games for "various" platforms at price points of $19.99 and below. If the selections are actually decent, we fear for how costly our surprisingly frequent late-night hot dog runs might soon become.

Joystiq7-Eleven to begin selling used games for $20 and below originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Apr 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-elevengame-trading-technologiespre-ownedusedused-gamesMon, 19 Apr 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop: Used game buyers uninterested in free DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/gamestop-used-game-buyers-uninterested-in-free-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/gamestop-used-game-buyers-uninterested-in-free-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/gamestop-used-game-buyers-uninterested-in-free-dlc/#comments We're usually pretty competent parsers of corporate quotes, but we may need some help on this one. Referencing the publisher practice of putting free DLC in new copies of games, GameStop boss Dan DeMatteo said on an investor call today that "we have learned that the second-hand user is a value-oriented consumer ... we don't believe that a $10 add-on piece of DLC is compelling to a used game buyer." So, they care about getting the biggest bang for their buck, but they just don't care about missing out on free things?

Here's another one: "Publishers can participate in our used business by offering add-on content for the most popular used titles, creating a win-win situation for publishers, retailers and consumers," he said, according to Gamasutra. Wouldn't the win for publishers and developers be to make money every time someone bought the game they made?

It may be that the statements are unclear, but it's also possible that we're just so unfamiliar with GameStop trying to be a team player that our primitive minds can't process it. Hard to say.

JoystiqGameStop: Used game buyers uninterested in free DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dan-dematteodlcgamestoppublishersused-gamesThu, 18 Mar 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop offering 50% bonus on every trade-in]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/gamestop-offering-50-bonus-on-every-trade-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/gamestop-offering-50-bonus-on-every-trade-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/gamestop-offering-50-bonus-on-every-trade-in/#comments GameStop's TV ad proudly proclaims that it's the "biggest trade event ever." We can't really disagree. Starting today, GameStop stores will be offering an extra 50% bonus on used game trade-ins, boosting their usually-paltry offerings into the "sort of worth it" zone. Your old copy of Madden 08 won't really help you much in this promo. Instead, look to capitalize on newer game trade-ins. Using the CAG database, we discovered that Modern Warfare 2, New Super Mario Bros. Wii, Dante's Inferno, and BioShock 2 will net about $35 of credit each.

The best bet right now seems to be Mass Effect 2, which will net you a whopping $52 worth of credit (and if you have an Edge card, you'll earn 10% more). Just make sure that, as with many of last year's and this quarter's games, you don't intend to stick around for all that DLC.

As much as you may sympathize with the difficulties publishers face in the used games market, the ongoing 2010 onslaught of games -- including Heavy Rain, Final Fantasy XIII, Battlefield: Bad Company 2, God of War III, Pokemon, and more -- might force your wallet to seek out as much help as it can find.

[Thanks, Alan S.]

JoystiqGameStop offering 50% bonus on every trade-in originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSgamestopMicrosoftNintendosaletrade-inused-gamesWiiXbox-360Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Used game retailers respond to 'Project Ten Dollar']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/21/used-game-retailers-respond-to-project-ten-dollar/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/21/used-game-retailers-respond-to-project-ten-dollar/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/21/used-game-retailers-respond-to-project-ten-dollar/#comments It's unsurprising that most game retailers who dabble in the pre-owned market feel jilted by an initiative EA CEO John Riccitiello calls "Project Ten Dollar" -- after all, it was designed to reclaim some of the revenues earned by secondhand sellers. A number of representatives from used game retailers recently spoke to GamesIndustry (login required) about the perils EA faces by bundling DLC redemption codes with new copies of the publisher's games.

Chipsworld exec Don McCabe said consumers won't prosper under this new system, as copies of the game will lose their resale value, but retailers will "just readjust [the price] bearing in mind you have to buy the voucher." Marc Day, CEO of SwapGame, says diminished resale value will do more harm than good to the publisher's bottom line, as "customers who trade in for cash or credit do so to acquire new games they could otherwise not afford."

Check out GamesIndustry's full article for more retailer opinions on EA's new DLC strategy. It's an interesting read on what might turn out to be a pretty vicious cycle.

JoystiqUsed game retailers respond to 'Project Ten Dollar' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 21 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlceaelectronic-artsjohn-riccitiellopre-ownedproject-ten-dollarretailsalessecondhandused-gamesSun, 21 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[US citizens: want to trade at Best Buy? Head north [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/us-citizens-want-to-trade-at-best-buy-head-north/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/us-citizens-want-to-trade-at-best-buy-head-north/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/us-citizens-want-to-trade-at-best-buy-head-north/#comments Update: A representative from Best Buy Canada has told Joystiq that any decision made regarding trades in the US "will not have any impact on Canada's operations at this point." The representative went on to say the trade-in program has been "very successful" in Canada and Best Buy Canada Ltd. has no plans to discontinue it.

Original: Although reports indicate that Best Buy America's used games trade-in operations will come to an abrupt end, Best Buy Canada continues to offer the used and trade programs in its own stores. On February 1, Industry Gamers reported E-Play, the company that distributed used game and trade kiosks to Best Buy and Walmart, suspended operations. Currently, neither major retailer appears to be pursuing replacement programs in stores.

In Canada, Best Buy and Future Shop both operate under the umbrella of Best Buy Canada Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of its American parent. The company currently runs used game and trade programs within stores of both brands, where customers are given a store credit toward other purchases in the store at each location's customer service desk. The process appears to be modeled closely after GameStop's approach, and the companies even offer similar multiple trade-in promotions (such as drastically slashing the value of games immediately following release).

Joystiq has contacted Best Buy Canada Ltd. for comment on the recent news affecting its American counterparts, and whether its own operations will change as a result, but has yet to hear back as of this publishing.

[Thanks, Nathan]

JoystiqUS citizens: want to trade at Best Buy? Head north [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buybest-buy-canadacanadafuture-shoptrade-inused-gamesWed, 03 Feb 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Walmart and Best Buy cease used games trade-in operations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/walmart-and-best-buy-cease-used-games-trade-in-operations/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/walmart-and-best-buy-cease-used-games-trade-in-operations/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/walmart-and-best-buy-cease-used-games-trade-in-operations/#comments Well, that certainly didn't take long. Industry Gamers reports that Walmart's and Best Buy's stab at tapping into the lucrative used games market will soon come to an abrupt end. E-Play, the company that distributed used games kiosks to certain locations for the two retailers, suspended operations earlier today -- and as a result, said kiosks will be shut down and removed within the next three weeks. Neither Walmart nor Best Buy looks to be pursuing similar operations without E-play.

We had an inkling that the two retailers weren't seeing significant returns from dabbling in the used games market through third-party vendor E-play, but the brevity of this venture is still a little surprising. Even our "mullet and horn-rimmed glasses" phase lasted longer than eight measly months.

JoystiqWalmart and Best Buy cease used games trade-in operations originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-playMicrosoftNintendoretailtrade-inused-gameswalmartWiiXbox-360Mon, 01 Feb 2010 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Green Man Gaming exec explains how digital trade-ins work]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/green-man-gaming-exec-explains-how-digital-trade-ins-work/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/green-man-gaming-exec-explains-how-digital-trade-ins-work/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/green-man-gaming-exec-explains-how-digital-trade-ins-work/#comments Ever since Green Man Gaming announced its plans for digital trade-ins last week, we've been scratching our heads and spinning the ol' think meat trying to understand how it's gonna work. Lucky for us then that GamesIndustry.biz got a couple of execs from the company to break down how it all functions in a recent interview. Allegedly, the folks at GMG have figured out an algorithm for calculating a game's worth at any given time based on a handful of (unnamed) criteria.

"We sit in the middle as a market maker and we always offer a price on the game ... we always allow people to sell it back to us," says CEO Paul Sulyok. As previously announced, the company will offer a percentage of revenue from each re-sold game to publishers -- something the company expects to get prospective partners signed up with the quickness. Suylok even puts a percentage to it, estimating that publishers will see a "194 percent" jump in "additional revenue per SKU" (in Humanspeak, that means for each individual game). Us? We're just happy to finally get some money back for that drunken purchase of Daikatana.

[Via BigDownload]

JoystiqGreen Man Gaming exec explains how digital trade-ins work originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributiongreen-man-gamingpaul-sulyoktrade-inused-gamesFri, 29 Jan 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: UK new game boxed sales down 18% in 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/report-uk-new-game-boxed-sales-down-18-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/report-uk-new-game-boxed-sales-down-18-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/report-uk-new-game-boxed-sales-down-18-in-2009/#comments Chart-Track/ELSPA reveal that new boxed game sales declined 18 percent in the UK during 2009, which is likely due to an amalgam of digital distribution and global financial issues (to put it lightly). As noted by GI.biz, the report does not include any sales information on used sales, Steam or other digital distribution networks. Thus, the 26 percent decline in boxed PC game sales during 2009 (a 22 percent decline in revenue) sounds tragic; however, considering the rapid adoption of digital distribution by PC users, it hardly gives the "full picture."

Boxed console games fared better with Xbox 360 and PS3 sales up a healthy 14 and 9 percent in unit sales, along with an increase of two and four percent in revenue, respectively. The year wasn't as kind to Wii games, with a drop of 10 percent in units sold and an 18 percent decline in revenue. Of course, as with PC, none of these sales include each console's digital distribution network, which certainly adds a couple extra pounds, especially after the holidays.

JoystiqReport: UK new game boxed sales down 18% in 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britainbusinesschart-trackdigital-distributionelspaukused-gamesTue, 12 Jan 2010 01:15:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop 'Buy 2, Get 1 Free' used game sale starts tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/gamestop-buy-2-get-1-free-used-game-sale-starts-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/gamestop-buy-2-get-1-free-used-game-sale-starts-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/gamestop-buy-2-get-1-free-used-game-sale-starts-tomorrow/#comments You've probably got a ton of brand new games you want to purchase, but with Christmas just around the corner, the available funds to buy things for yourself are likely dwindling. Tomorrow through Sunday, GameStop's got a helpful solution: A Buy 2, Get 1 Free sale on all used games. The sale is both in-store and online, though you'll need to use code B2G1FREE, along with SAVER to get free shipping on $25-plus orders.

Just so there's no confusion, we're not suggesting that you buy used games for yourself to save money, far from it. We just can't help but think how much extra cash you'd have left for Assassin's Creed 2 if you got everyone on your list a second-hand copy of Wheelman.

[Via CheapCollegeGamers]

Check out Joystiq's Black Friday Game Deals Hub or jump to a retailer guide below:


For more Black Friday coverage, check out Black Friday Deals, Cyber Monday Sales,
And other Black Friday 2009 stories today from Walletpop.com

JoystiqGameStop 'Buy 2, Get 1 Free' used game sale starts tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>busbydealsDSgamestopholidaze-2009MicrosoftNintendopre-ownedsaleused-gamesWiiXbox-360Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Goozex temporarily drops trading fees for students]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/goozex-temporarily-drops-trading-fees-for-students/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/goozex-temporarily-drops-trading-fees-for-students/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/goozex-temporarily-drops-trading-fees-for-students/#commentsGoozex, the online game trading service, has announced a special promotion for its student members. Starting now and running through January 31, 2010, Goozex members that are enrolled in college will be able to trade their games without paying any trading fee whatsoever. Granted, the trading fee is normally only $1, but every little bit helps these days, especially with the holiday shopping season currently preparing its first major assault.

Now, technically, the deal applies to anyone using Goozex under a .edu email address, so we suppose the less scrupulous folks out there could game the system. Then again, so long as it gets people using the service, we're not sure Goozex will mind all that much.

JoystiqGoozex temporarily drops trading fees for students originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealsgoozexused-gamesMon, 23 Nov 2009 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[UK retailer GAME sees big boost from used game sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/uk-retailer-game-sees-big-boost-from-used-game-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/uk-retailer-game-sees-big-boost-from-used-game-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/uk-retailer-game-sees-big-boost-from-used-game-sales/#comments
Even though the economy has seen better days, UK brick-and-mortar retailer GAME is seeing growth. Its used games revenues in the first half of this year ending July 31 grew by a whopping 12.3 percent to now make up "25.7% of total sales," paralleling US retailer GameStop's yearly used game revenue percentage. But things aren't all Ferrari 458 Italia-filled days and caviar dreams around GAME HQ, with total sales dropping by seven percent.

"In the second half, the installed base of third generation consoles will continue to build ... price reductions on the Microsoft Xbox 360 Elite and Sony's new model PlayStation 3 are helping to stimulate the market for hardware, chairman Peter Lewis said in the financial results announcement. If you add to that the recent speculation of a Nintendo Wii bundle hitting UK store shelves this holiday as well, we imagine the market will get plenty stimulated, Mr. Lewis.

[Via GamingIndustry.biz]

JoystiqUK retailer GAME sees big boost from used game sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomyfinancialgamegame.co.ukgamestoppeter-lewisused-gamesThu, 24 Sep 2009 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy CFO sees 'opportunity' in used games market [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/best-buy-cfo-sees-opportunity-in-used-games-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/best-buy-cfo-sees-opportunity-in-used-games-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/best-buy-cfo-sees-opportunity-in-used-games-market/#comments
Speculation among industry analysts has amplified surrounding the possible purchase of meganormous video game retailer GameStop by big box electronics/media retailer Best Buy. The Dow Jones Newswire (via the Wall Street Journal) followed up with Best Buy CFO Ryan Robinson recently, who, unsurprisingly, wouldn't directly comment.

He responds, however, by saying that his company hasn't been taking advantage of the used game market in the way some competitors are. "We've not developed the capability to the extent that other participants have," Robinson says, calling the used game business a "very margin-rich portion" of the game sales market, and adding, "there's opportunity in that business." Opportunity that Best Buy clearly saw fit enough to enterprise on with a foray into used games in 2005 and another this year -- heck, they even price match new game prices with used game ones every now and then.

Still, Best Buy outright purchasing GameStop would be a real stretch, says BloggingStocks.com. "There's no overlooking the roughly $4.2 billion it would cost to buy up Gamestop, and Best Buy doesn't have that much cash," the piece claims, saying Best Buy wouldn't see a return on the investment "any time soon." We've reached out to Best Buy for comment and have yet to hear back as of publication.

Update: A Best Buy representative got back to us with the stock, "We don't comment on rumors or speculation."

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqBest Buy CFO sees 'opportunity' in used games market [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buybloggingstocks.combusinessfinancegamestopretailryan-robinsonused-gameswall-street-journalMon, 21 Sep 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Get 20% off used PSP games at GameStop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/05/get-20-off-used-psp-games-at-gamestop/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/05/get-20-off-used-psp-games-at-gamestop/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/05/get-20-off-used-psp-games-at-gamestop/#comments
Click to print.
Screw the PSP Go! Show Sony how much you love UMD by taking part in GameStop's latest used games sale. With this in-store coupon, you'll be able to get 20% off any pre-owned PSP games. With coupon in hand, you'll be able to pick up physical UMD copies of classic PSP games -- at a significantly lower price than its digital PlayStation Network equivalent.

You'll have to hurry, though. The coupon is only valid until 9/10/09.

JoystiqGet 20% off used PSP games at GameStop originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coupondealgamestopused-gamesSat, 05 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter says Best Buy's new games at used prices program will fail]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/pachter-says-best-buys-new-games-at-used-prices-program-will-fa/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/pachter-says-best-buys-new-games-at-used-prices-program-will-fa/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/pachter-says-best-buys-new-games-at-used-prices-program-will-fa/#comments
Best Buy surprised the gaming public last week with the revelation that it was testing a new pricing program that would see the retailer selling new games at used prices. Specifically, the test store in Utah will match the used game prices of both GameStop and Game Crazy. According to Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter, the program isn't likely to last very long.

"I don't think it will do well," Pachter tells Game Politics, adding that price matching forces Best Buy to "either cuts their profit per game in half, or wipes it out altogether." He expresses the opinion that Best Buy can't afford to chop $10 off the price of a $60 game, saying that such a practice won't be effective "in the long run." Furthermore, even if the program does take off, Pachter believes GameStop will simply lower its used game prices "to the point where Best Buy can't match without losing money."

He has a point, but, from the consumer perspective, it's hard to see a downside. Whether Best Buy's program succeeds or not, it still means lower prices, if only for a short time.

JoystiqPachter says Best Buy's new games at used prices program will fail originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analysisanalystbest-buygame-crazygamestopmichael-pachterused-gamesMon, 10 Aug 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy testing price matching of used games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/best-buy-testing-price-matching-of-used-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/best-buy-testing-price-matching-of-used-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/best-buy-testing-price-matching-of-used-games/#comments
"Why buy used when you can buy new?" asks a new Best Buy retail display discovered in West Jordan, Utah [via CAG]. According to the poster, Best Buy will offer new video games for the same price as used equivalents from GameStop and GameCrazy. With GameStop's used prices at least $5 cheaper than retail price, shoppers are guaranteed to get a small discount on every new game at this Best Buy location.

It's currently unclear if this is a nationwide Best Buy policy, or if it's simply a localized test. We've contacted Best Buy for more information, and will update the story with an official statement. Until then, let us know if your local Best Buy is also participating in this program. Update: A Best Buy representative informed us that this is, indeed, a local test and not a nationwide program. Hopefully, the "test" proves positive, as we'd love to see this program expand.

[Thanks, tmacairjordan87!]

JoystiqBest Buy testing price matching of used games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buygamecrazygamestopprice-matchused-gamesFri, 07 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Three million people played Dead Space]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/three-million-people-played-dead-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/three-million-people-played-dead-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/three-million-people-played-dead-space/#comments
The sobering second half of that sentence? Only 1.5 million people bought it new. Speaking on the official EA podcast, Glen Schofield, EA studio manager for the Dead Space team, said that while the team had discussed adding co-op, he didn't believe the lack of that feature is what sent the game tape flying back to GameStop after players had solved it.

Schofield explained, "We were up against Fallout, which was a 50-hour game to begin with. So, we didn't look at it and say we have to have online. What we said we've got to be bang for the buck."

So, would you have held on to Dead Space longer if you could have gotten the pee scared out of you with a friend?
[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqThree million people played Dead Space originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-opdead-spacedlceaElectronic-ArtsMicrosoftused-gamesvisceral-gamesXbox-360Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nielsen: Gaming time, used game sales at all-time high]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/nielsen-gaming-time-used-game-sales-at-all-time-high/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/nielsen-gaming-time-used-game-sales-at-all-time-high/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/nielsen-gaming-time-used-game-sales-at-all-time-high/#comments
Take that, crumbling economy! In a recently released report (PDF), Nielsen Media Research claims that, despite poor economic conditions, gamers are actually spending more time playing games in 2009 than they have in previous years. In fact, the number of hours spent per week playing games is at an all-time high. Nielsen attributes this rise to "mainstream gamers" spending more time with "broadly appealing" titles like Rock Band, Guitar Hero and Wii Fit. Playing these games for all they're worth can help gamers "stretch their entertainment dollar," according to Nielsen's Michael Flamberg, director of client consulting,

Furthermore, used game sales are also higher than ever before. Since January, the average number of used games purchased in a six-month period has risen from 3.01 to 3.51, accounting for 36 percent of all games purchased. The firm also reports that subscription to game rental services like GameFly is on the rise, stating that some gamers may use such services as a substitution for purchasing new games.

What say you, Joystiq readers? Has the economy driven you to purchase more used games?

JoystiqNielsen: Gaming time, used game sales at all-time high originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomynielsenused-gamesMon, 06 Jul 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A look at Best Buy's new trade-in kiosk]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/a-look-at-best-buys-new-trade-in-kiosk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/a-look-at-best-buys-new-trade-in-kiosk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/a-look-at-best-buys-new-trade-in-kiosk/#commentsAfter learning that Best Buy was testing new game trade-in kiosks in some areas of Texas, we visited our local location to find that one of the new stations had just been set up right by the front door. In fact, a nearby employee informed us that we were the first to use it. Shortly after we experimented with it, we watched a group of Best Buy employees gather around the kiosk in quiet awe.

As it turns out, the kiosks aren't just for trading in games for store credit -- you can buy, trade, or even rent used games or movies from the device. The one we looked at had a tiny selection of both games and movies available (less than fifty total offerings), but that's most likely because of the early stage of the program.

We snapped some pictures of the kiosk while we were trying it out. Head into our gallery if you ever wanted to see what a game case deposit slot or a disc dispenser looks like.

Gallery: Best Buy trade-in kiosk

Continue reading A look at Best Buy's new trade-in kiosk

JoystiqA look at Best Buy's new trade-in kiosk originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buykiosktrade-inused-gamesFri, 26 Jun 2009 15:45:00 EST