When it comes to buying video games, consoles, and accessories, two of the biggest retailers that likely come to mind are Target and GameStop. Both carry an extensive selection of gaming products, but which store offers the best value? One key factor is price – and whether Target is willing to price match if you find a better deal at GameStop.
As a savvy shopper, you always want to get the lowest price possible. So what exactly is Target‘s policy when it comes to matching prices from GameStop? Can you show proof of a lower price at GameStop and get Target to match it? Are there any exclusions or limitations to be aware of?
In this post, we‘ll take an in-depth look at everything you need to know about Target‘s price matching policy as it relates to GameStop. We‘ll cover what qualifies for a price match, what doesn‘t, and how the process works. Plus, we‘ll compare the two retailers head-to-head in terms of price, selection, customer service, and more to help you decide where to shop.
Overview of Target‘s Price Match Guarantee
First, let‘s review what Target‘s price match policy entails. According to their corporate website, Target offers a Price Match Guarantee which states:
"If you buy a qualifying item at a Target store then find the identical item for less at Target.com, select online competitors, or in Target‘s or competitor‘s local print ad, we‘ll match the price."
The policy allows you to request a price match at the time of purchase or within 14 days after purchase. If you find a lower price after you buy an item, you can bring in proof of the current lower price and Target will adjust your payment to the lower price.
Some key things to note about Target‘s price matching:
- The item must be identical in brand name, size, weight, color, quantity and model number to qualify
- Target matches prices from 29 online competitors, including Amazon, Walmart.com, BestBuy.com, and more
- Price matches may be requested at Target stores or via Target.com chat or phone
- Some exclusions apply, including clearance/liquidation sales, bundle offers, pricing errors, and items sold by third-party sellers
So in a nutshell, Target does offer price matching both at the time of purchase and retroactively within the return window. This allows you to shop with confidence knowing you‘re getting the lowest price.
Does Target Price Match GameStop?
Now, to answer the big question at hand – yes, Target does price match GameStop, both in-store and online. GameStop is one of the 29 online competitors that Target specifically lists as eligible for price matching.
However, there are a few caveats and restrictions to Target‘s price matching policy that apply to GameStop and other competitors:
New Items Only
Target will only price match items that are new and unopened. They will not match prices on pre-owned games or refurbished accessories sold at GameStop. The item must be exactly the same to qualify.
In-Stock Items Only
The lower-priced item must be currently in stock and available to purchase from GameStop‘s website or store shelves. If GameStop is sold out online or the store doesn‘t have the item available for immediate sale, Target will not match the price.
No Bundled Offers
Target does not price match GameStop on any bundled items or special promotional offers, such as buy-one-get-one deals or gift card offers. The price match only applies to the individual item price.
Proof of Price Required
To request a price match against GameStop, you‘ll need to show proof of the current price. This can be done by bringing in a print ad, showing the digital ad or product listing on your mobile device, or by calling Guest Services with a web link.
Target vs GameStop: Which Has Better Prices Overall?
While Target will match GameStop‘s prices in many cases, you may be wondering which retailer tends to have lower prices to begin with. From our analysis, it depends on the specific item and timing.
Both Target and GameStop run frequent sales and promotions on video games and gaming gear. You can often find popular titles for $10-20 off, or 25-50% off within a few months of release. Around the holidays and other key shopping events like Black Friday, the deals get even better.
One advantage of GameStop is that they run special trade-in offers that can significantly lower the price of a new game or accessory. For example, they might offer a $10-20 bonus trade credit when you trade in select games toward a new release. GameStop also has a membership program called PowerUp Rewards that gives you points on every purchase or trade which can add up to further discounts.
On the other hand, Target offers a 5% discount on all purchases when you use their RedCard credit or debit card – including video games and accessories. They also tend to include gaming items in their Circle rewards program offers, which can get you 5-50% off certain games or categories. And of course, the ability to price match means you can always get the lowest available price at Target.
One other factor to consider is that Target sells games and accessories alongside a huge selection of other products like groceries, clothing, home goods, and more. So you may be able to save time and money by buying a game while doing your regular Target shopping, rather than making a separate trip to GameStop.
Overall, it‘s hard to say that Target or GameStop is definitively cheaper across the board. Your best bet is to compare prices between the two retailers (keeping Target‘s price match policy in mind), factor in any available promotions, coupons, or rewards, and go with the better bottom-line price.
Comparing Target vs GameStop: Selection, Service, Extras
Beyond price, there are a few other areas where Target and GameStop differ that are worth weighing as you decide where to shop. Here‘s a quick rundown:
Selection
Both retailers carry a wide selection of games for all the major consoles (Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox) along with PC games, gaming accessories, toys-to-life products, gaming gift cards, and more. GameStop does tend to have a deeper catalog of niche and older titles that may not be stocked at Target. However, for the most popular new releases and best sellers, you‘ll find them at either store.
Customer Service
In terms of in-store customer service, GameStop tends to have the edge since their staff is solely focused on gaming and more likely to be knowledgeable about specific game features, brand differences, compatibility issues, and other technical details. Target staff may not be as well-versed, though you can still get basic assistance and checkout service there. Online and phone support is fairly comparable between the two retailers.
Extras & Experiences
One area where GameStop stands out is in its fan-centric gaming culture and experiences. They host frequent launch parties and in-store events for major game releases, complete with giveaways, tournaments, cosplay contests, developer chats, and other perks for diehard fans.
GameStop also has its own game publication, Game Informer magazine, with exclusive content. And its PowerUp Rewards program includes a paid tier with benefits like a subscription to Game Informer, more points on purchases, and extra trade-in credit.
Target doesn‘t have as much of this "gamer culture" – it‘s more of a mass market retailer. But it does have the convenience of one-stop shopping and the flexibility of price matching. Target also occasionally includes exclusive in-game bonus content or collectible store gift cards with certain game purchases.
Tips for Finding the Best Deals on Games at Target & GameStop
Whichever retailer you choose, there are a number of ways you can ensure you‘re getting the best possible price on video games and accessories. Here are some tips:
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Always check for a lower price at the other store (or other competitors like Amazon or Best Buy) and ask for a price match if you find one. Having proof of the lower price in hand will make the process easier.
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Join loyalty and rewards programs like Target Circle and GameStop PowerUp Rewards for exclusive discount offers, special coupons, and points on your purchases that can lead to future savings. It‘s free to join the basic tiers.
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Follow your favorite game brands and retailers on social media and sign up for their email newsletters. This way you‘ll get notified immediately about new releases, sales, and limited-time deals.
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If you‘re a serious gamer, consider upgrading to a premium membership like GameStop PowerUp Rewards Pro for added perks and savings. And if you shop at Target often, applying for a RedCard will get you 5% off all your purchases there.
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Understand each retailer‘s return and exchange policies in case you end up not liking a game or accessory. GameStop offers full refunds within 7 days for pre-owned games and 30 days for new games, accessories and electronics. Target allows returns within 30 days for electronics and entertainment, as long as the items are unopened and in new condition.
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Don‘t forget about trade-ins – especially at GameStop. Trading in old games and consoles you no longer play can offset the cost of new titles significantly. GameStop generally offers more trade-in value than big box retailers like Target.
By following these tips and carefully comparing prices between Target, GameStop, and other gaming retailers, you can make sure you‘re always getting the very best deal on the video games and accessories you want. With a little bit of time and effort, you can grow your game collection without breaking the bank.
The Bottom Line
So in conclusion, yes, Target does price match GameStop on identical new items, as long as you can provide proof of the lower price and it‘s not part of a bundled deal. This is a great perk for gamers who want to streamline their shopping and save money in the process.
However, there are some instances where Target may not be the best place to buy video games:
- If you‘re looking for older, niche, imported, or pre-owned titles, GameStop is more likely to carry them.
- If you want the in-store experience of launch events, tournaments, and gamer culture, GameStop has more to offer there.
- If you‘re trading in old games or consoles, you‘ll usually get more value from GameStop.
And in some cases, GameStop may have the better overall price to begin with thanks to their trade-in promotions and exclusive PowerUp Rewards discounts.
As a shopper, it‘s wise to scope out offers at both GameStop and Target, compare bottom-line prices, factor in any rewards points, and consider which retailer is more convenient for you. Consider joining the free loyalty programs for both stores to maximize your savings and stay in the loop on deals.
Whether you‘re a casual gamer or avid collector, you can shop at Target or GameStop – or both – with confidence, knowing that you can always get the lowest price thanks to Target‘s price match guarantee. By being an informed consumer and using the tips above, you can enjoy an ever-growing game library without overpaying.
Happy gaming!