[General Discussion] Gamestop and gutted games

"White" and "worker" and "game store" just don't go good together.

I went to the philippines years ago, and all their games were sealed. They were sitting there in plastic cases which had to be removed at the counter with some special device, and they wouldn't do that unless you paid first.

Excellent security measures and service. Really, down here everything needs to pass the OFLC classification board before they reach the country, although this only kicked into effect around the beginning of 2006.



Basically, all games here have one (and only one) of those labels, but they're actually that size. That picture I just linked isn't blown up or anything. And, these aren't stickers, but actual imprints which are printed into the game's cover and cannot be removed.

In order for them to do this, of course, the game must be unsealed (if it was ever sealed in the first place), meaning that every single game rated by the OFLC (which covers NZ, Australia, and parts of Asia) is opened, somewhat.

Oh no, it doesn't stop there. Usually the game stores here (Central Park, EB, Gamesman, Gameplanet) will take the discs physically out of the game case, along with the manual, and put them away. Usually they put them away in a paper-thin disc holder which you usually see regular CDs in.

Then, they put their fucking "This item has been discounted!" or "10% off!" or whatever, stickers on the game cases. Unless you actually ask for them to give you a case which is out the back, of course.

One store I know here puts ALL game cases on their shelves, and keeps the games in the storage room out back. The games are given a position on the shelf, and stacked. You just take one, bring it to the counter, and they fetch the manual and gam- wait, they actually have to take the game OUT of the case, into a CD sleeve, out of the CD sleeve, and back into the case.

One of the last PAL games I purchased (early 2006) was La Pucelle, and I made the store manager go through about six different copies before finding one which wasn't scratched.

This is why I import my games. All of my stuff arrives sealed, in perfect condition, guaranteed. All second hand games I've purchased have arrived unsealed, but flawless. Maybe this sheds some light on why I'm "such a big importer of games" - I won't even bring the blue case, ugly spines and OFLC labels into the picture here.

Jam it back in, in the dark.

Originally Posted by Ronz

Have we not had over 9000 threads on this subject already or am I just thinking of the other 9000 internet message boards i've read this crap at.

People at EB/Sagestop are just doing their jobs. If you don't want a gutted copy it's as simple as not buying it. Let them make their stupid jokes/comments. If it bothers you, don't shop there. Best way to send them a message is through your wallet.

Says the guy who used to work for EB :V

How ya doing, buddy?