Some video game retailers have been known to release a title before the designated street date. Modern Warfare 2 is the latest game to be released early by GameStop, where several stores started selling the title over the weekend. While GameStop is using “competition” as its reasoning behind the release, this type of pre-release presents an unfair scenario for all retailers and publishers.
GameStop declares its decision was reached through several conversations with Activision, however a statement from Activision indicates the two aren’t on the same page. “Activision has not given any retailer permission to sell Modern Warfare 2 prior to the Nov. 10 street date,” said a company spokesperson to GameSpot.
Publishers set specific release dates for specific reasons, and releasing a title even a few days early could throw off sales figures. Additionally, it sets a standard for retailers to start selling a big title whenever they receive it, which can be dangerous to put that type of responsibility into the hands of retailers and not the makers of the game. Do you think “competition” is an invalid reason for retailers to sell a game early, or are you just happy to get your hands on a game early.
