The UK’s largest video game store, GAME, is ending its trade in service after decades of keeping the brand alive.
Reported by Eurogamer, GAME will end its video game trade in service on February 16, 2024. The trade in has been an essential part of the brand’s identity since its founding in 1992 starting with the NES and SNES generations.
The service, now only available in the United Kingdom, allows you to give in unwanted physical games, consoles and peripherals in exchange for in-store credit. Those with a GAME Elite membership can get extra credit for trading in their items.
Alongside the rise of digital media, GAME has suffered from the rise of competitor CeX in the UK. With GAME turning down older games that CeX gladly takes, many have decided to simply not trade in their goods to the former, especially as CeX also offers cash for trade ins.
Eurogamer reports that store staff have been informed of the change in policy at the time of writing. However, an official announcement has yet to be made by the retailer on social media or via its press office.
Over the past few years, GAME has been less engaged in offering gaming goods, especially when it comes to pre-owned goods. Instead, the retailer has invested heavily in supplemental goods, including board games, figurines, trading cards, toys and plushies.
Additionally, the retailer is now a part of Sports Direct company Frasers Group. Acquired in 2019 for the sum of £51 million, GAME stores have been incorporated into Sports Direct shops to save on location expenses.
The longevity of GAME has been brought into question multiple times over its 30 year history, especially with the increased rise of digital game ownership. However, with 50% of gamers still buying physical games, it seems that its competitor CeX will profit heavily from the used games market.
At the time of writing, GAME will still be selling new physical games and consoles, as it always has. Although, if you have any physical games you wish to trade in, now’s the time to do it.