Online retailers sending used PC and Video games?

makara

Since the last several years (probably early 2000s), I have practically given up buying PC games or video games (or hardware) in High Street shops - because Online is always cheaper - and time WAS you would always get a brand new box and disc - right down to the "colour-coded tear-off" strips being present on Wii and PS2 games' cellophane packaging - to indicate no one had opened them previously.

In fact it was a RARITY to be sent a used game disc - it only happened ONCE to me in many years of buying online.

But as of the last couple of months, practically every other game I order online from MANY of the reputable retailers I use has had marks of usage or of being "re-sealed and re-sold".

I either ask for a full refund - or I order another copy from the retailer (to make sure I am not again sent the same one back if I ask for a replacement) BEFORE sending the first one back.

The other day, I ordered "Guitar Hero Super Bundle" for my Wii - yes, the one with Mike + Drums + Guitar all together - the price was only about 1/3rd of the original RRP - and it was from one of the big reputable companies - but...the instruments were clearly used upon arrival - so will be asking for another set to be sent - or a refund.

Has anyone else noticed a recent down-turn in online retail quality, i.e. a marked increase in what are clearly used (or at least "opened by other customers") games and game hardware?

DCFC79

A friend of mine was sent a second hand when the website said no mention of it being second hand, he got a refund in the end

makara

"Good" to see I'm not the only one...


As much as I respect Consumer Rights, I really feel that things like Video games should be given a far more strict code of conduct when returning items - i.e. if you've changed your mind AFTER opening / using them - tough!!

charlie-chan

Sometimes, customers buy games online then return it instore after they've opened it. The SA refund the customer then do a stock check and send any surplus back to the warehouse. This may include the previously returned game so when you order online, the warehouse staff may just send an opened game thinking that its as new.

It's rubbish. They tend to do it with consoles etc.