Understanding Your Warranty Options at GAME
When asking, 'Does the game do warranty?', it is important to clarify which retailer you're referring to, as the term 'the game' can be ambiguous. This guide focuses on GAME UK, a prominent retailer, and explains its policies alongside a general overview of gaming retail warranties. For UK customers, your rights are protected by consumer law, but retailers also offer specific guarantees.
Warranties for New Products
For brand-new consoles, games, and accessories, your primary warranty is usually a manufacturer's warranty. For manufacturing faults that occur within the first year, GAME UK typically handles the return or replacement. After the retailer's specified return period (often 28 days for online purchases), you may be directed to contact the manufacturer directly for longer-term issues. Remember, a new item that arrives with a defect should be returned to GAME for an exchange or refund, provided you have proof of purchase.
Coverage for Pre-Owned Games and Hardware
One of the most common questions revolves around pre-owned or used products. Retailers often provide their own guarantees for these items. While specific terms can differ, many, like GAME, offer a guarantee that pre-owned games and hardware are fully working and come with a limited-time warranty. For example, similar retailers offer a 90-day warranty on pre-owned items, covering manufacturing faults but not physical damage or wear and tear. It's essential to keep your receipt, as this is your proof of purchase and a necessary part of the claim process.
The Product Replacement Plan (PRP) Explained
Beyond the standard and manufacturer warranties, retailers frequently offer optional extended protection plans, such as a Product Replacement Plan (PRP) for hardware. This is an extra, paid-for service that extends coverage beyond what is legally required or offered by the manufacturer. PRPs often cover a wider range of issues, such as accidental damage, and typically offer a quicker, in-store replacement service rather than sending the item away for repair. They are an additional layer of protection, not a replacement for your statutory rights.
How to Claim Your Warranty at GAME UK
Your method for making a claim will depend on where you made your purchase. The general process is as follows:
- Online Purchases: Items bought online must typically be returned via post using the designated returns portal, not in-store. You will need your online dispatch note and the product in its original, re-sellable condition (unless faulty). Faulty items will have the return postage covered by GAME.
- In-Store Purchases: For items bought in a physical store, you must return the faulty product to a store with a valid receipt or reward card record. The store can often offer an exchange or credit note, especially for faulty items, depending on the product and how long you've had it.
- Proof of Purchase: Always retain your receipt or have your reward card record handy. This is non-negotiable for all warranty claims.
Statutory Rights vs. Extended Warranties
Understanding the distinction between your statutory rights and an optional extended warranty is crucial for making informed decisions. Your statutory rights are free and protect you from faulty goods, while extended warranties are paid-for add-ons that provide additional peace of mind.
| Feature | Statutory Rights (UK) | Extended Warranty (PRP) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free; built into consumer law. | Additional upfront cost. |
| Coverage | Covers manufacturing faults and defects at the time of sale. | May cover accidental damage, wear and tear, and additional issues. |
| Duration | Up to six years in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland (five years in Scotland). The burden of proof shifts after six months. | A fixed term, typically one or two years, starting from purchase. |
| Claim Process | Return to the retailer for repair, replacement, or refund. | Often offers a more rapid, in-store replacement process for covered issues. |
| Benefit | Free, legally-backed protection against manufacturing faults. | Enhanced coverage, convenience, and peace of mind for accidents. |
For a comprehensive overview of your fundamental legal consumer rights, you can consult the official guidance from the Citizens Advice Bureau here.
Conclusion: Making Sense of Your Game Warranty
To get the right answer to 'Does the game do warranty?', remember that policies differ based on the item and its condition. New items are protected by both manufacturer warranties and your statutory rights, while pre-owned items typically have a retailer-specific guarantee. Extended protection plans, while optional, provide extra coverage for those seeking additional security for their purchases. Always keep your proof of purchase and understand the terms of your specific warranty or guarantee before making a claim. This knowledge will ensure a smooth process if your item develops a fault.
