Warranties, protection plans, and service contracts are common considerations when purchasing a new electronic device. GameStop offers a Product Replacement Plan on select items that many customers consider when they purchase a new device.
So, is GameStop’s Product Replacement Plan worth it, or does it not provide enough coverage? Here’s what you need to know.
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Should I Get the GameStop Warranty?
The GameStop warranty, known as the Product Replacement Plan, might be worth it to you. The plan is designed to allow you to swap out a console at the store on the same day instead of calling the manufacturer and sending it through the mail. The PRP doesn’t cover certain conditions.
What Does the GameStop Warranty Cover?
The GameStop warranty, known as the Product Replacement Plan (PRP), isn’t actually a warranty. The PRP isn’t insurance or a warranty; it’s only a product replacement plan. The PRP is designed to offer customers a one-time replacement for normal damages. However, this will vary on location, state, and employee.
The Product Replacement Plan Offers One-Time Replacements
GameStop’s Product Replacement Plan offers one-time-replacements or repairs at their sole discretion. They offer these services for devices covered by the plan as a consequence of a malfunction that isn’t covered by any other insurance, warranty, or contract.
They also provide one-time replacements for software covered under the plan that isn’t protected by insurance, warranty, or contract.
The PRP Offers Hassle-Free Replacement
GameStop states that the Product Replacement Plan offers hassle-free replacement. This means you can go into a GameStop and receive the same-day in-store replacement for your damaged goods. This is so customers don’t have to go through the lengthy process of sending their items to the manufacturers for replacement or repair.
Your Mileage Will Vary
Your mileage will vary when it comes to GameStop’s Product Replacement Plan. Many customers and GameStop employees have confirmed that the plan varies from location, store, and employee.
For example, one employee stated that if you brought in a new PS4 with disc errors, they would simply check the serial number and offer you a new one. Keep in mind that the PRP is mostly an honor system, so what you bring in is what you’ll receive—no extra controllers or cords.
Another employee states that in some areas, GameStop employees make unrealistic claims saying they’ll replace almost any item regardless of the damage. This might be a sales tactic to increase metrics. Employees who replace items this way might also be breaking GameStop policy.
You’ll need to check your location, store, and state laws before proceeding.
What Isn’t Covered By the GameStop Product Replacement Plan?
To determine whether the GameStop PRP is right for you, you’ll need to know what it does and doesn’t cover. Unfortunately, the list of what it doesn’t cover is much longer than what it does.
Types of Damages GameStop Doesn’t Cover
The GameStop Product Replacement Plan does not cover certain damages from anything beyond the control of GameStop as well as rust or corrosion. Here are the types of damage the plan doesn’t cover:
- Misuse
- Riot
- Abuse
- Vandalism
- Stealing
- Flame
- Flood or water
- Heavy Breeze
- Electricity
- Extremely cold temperatures
- Power failure
- Power reduction
- Insufficient power supply
- Uncommon atmospheric conditions
- Telephone malfunctions
- Acts of God
The Product Replacement Plan also doesn’t cover purely cosmetic damage such as scratches, peeling paint, or dented externals.
You May Not Be Covered if You Make Certain Repairs
GameStop does not cover repairs or services required if they result from alterations, repairs not made by GameStop, or the use of components not recommended or recognized as industry equivalents.
GameStop’s Product Replacement Plan doesn’t cover repairs or services required if they result from the use of non-compatible applications, devices, discs, or video games. The plan also doesn’t include any type of preventative maintenance.
The Plan Doesn’t Cover Expendable Items
The GameStop PRP doesn’t cover any expendable items, including, but not limited to, batteries, operating supplies, and other consumable items. This means certain components of a device might not be covered if they fail.
Want more information? We’ve answered the question does Gamestop warranty cover theft? and read more about the Gamestop warranty policy.
Is GameStop’s Warranty Worth the Cost?
The GameStop warranty, known as the Product Replacement Plan, might be worth it to you. The plan is designed to allow you to swap out a console at the store on the same day instead of calling the manufacturer and sending it through the mail. However, the PRP doesn’t cover various types of damages, repairs, expendable items, and more.
That being said, the GameStop Product Replacement Plan might be right for you if you prefer the convenience and want same-day replacement for common defects.