In a move that will surprise no one, Gamestop has decided to suspend the roll out of their new rental service – Power Pass. We were skeptical about this service to begin with and it appears that our skepticism was warranted.
Gamestop is so desperate to find a hook to lure people back into their stores that they have started promoting programs that their systems cannot handle. Yes, you read that correctly. The reason for the delay and possible cancelation of this program is due to limitations with their outdated computer systems.
Video games, by definition, are a form of technology. They are evolving as the technology around them evolves. Regardless, the company that is supposed to be your one stop video game shop does not have the technology available to offer something as basic as a rental program.
While a little more expensive, GameFly has been offering this service for years now. A company like Gamestop should be able to keep up with a company like GameFly. Having brick and mortar locations is a huge advantage. Players don’t have to wait for their game to come in the mail as they can walk right in and rent a game and then keep one at the end of their subscription. All for a cheaper price point than Gamefly. Yet their technology has failed them further solidifying their slide into anonymity. You’ve earned your spot next to Blockbuster.
For anyone who had already signed up for the program, Gamestop is allowing you to return the game you rented for a full refund and will give you a free used game as an apology. The real winners in this circus will be those who signed up early and will receive a free game out of the ordeal.
It was a good thought Gamestop, but implementation is more important than an idea itself.
