As video game developers, it can be frustrating when your games are returned to stores like Walmart. You may wonder if there is any way to get them back on the shelves or even in the hands of consumers who want to play them. In this article, we will explore whether it is possible for developers to return their games to Walmart and the pros and cons of doing so.
Pros of Returning Games to Walmart
1. Increased Visibility: When a game is returned to a store like Walmart, it is placed on the shelves again, increasing its visibility to potential buyers. This can be especially beneficial for indie developers who may not have had the resources to get their games into big retailers like Walmart in the first place.
2. Potential Revenue: If a game has been successful and sold well, returning it to stores like Walmart could lead to additional revenue. This can be especially important for smaller studios that may not have the financial resources to continue developing new games.
3. Improved Customer Experience: When a game is returned to a store, it is often because it did not meet consumer expectations or was not marketed effectively. By addressing these issues and making improvements, developers can improve the customer experience and potentially increase sales in the future.
Cons of Returning Games to Walmart
1. Stigma: There is often a stigma attached to returned games, which can be damaging to a developer’s reputation. Consumers may see returning a game as a sign of failure or poor quality, which could deter them from buying future games from that developer.
2. Time and Money: Returning a game to a store like Walmart requires time and money. Developers will need to pay for shipping and handling, as well as any fees associated with getting the game back on the shelves. This can be especially challenging for smaller studios with limited financial resources.
3. Risk of Oversaturation: If too many games are returned to stores like Walmart, it could lead to oversaturation in the marketplace. Consumers may become overwhelmed by the number of choices available and may be less likely to purchase any new games.
Case Study: Returning “The Long Dark” to Walmart
One example of a developer returning a game to a store like Walmart is the team behind “The Long Dark.” The game was initially released in 2014 and was later pulled from stores due to low sales. However, the team decided to make some improvements to the game and returned it to stores in 2017. The result? Sales of “The Long Dark” increased significantly, and the game went on to become a critical and commercial success.
Expert Opinions
According to Steve Jarratt, CEO of Team17, returning a game to a store can be a smart business decision. “If you have a good game that was not marketed effectively or did not sell well in the initial launch, it’s worth considering returning it to stores,” he said. “It can lead to additional revenue and increased visibility for the game.”
However, Jarratt also cautions developers to be careful when deciding whether to return a game. “It’s important to consider the potential stigma that may come with returning a game, as well as the time and money required to get it back on the shelves,” he said. “Developers should carefully weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.”
FAQs
Q: How do I return a game to Walmart?
A: Developers will need to contact Walmart directly to discuss returning a game. They will need to provide information about the game, such as its SKU number and any other relevant details. Walmart will then work with the developer to determine if they want to take the game back and how it will be handled.
Q: Will I get my money back if I return a game to Walmart?
A: Developers will not receive their money back if a game is returned to Walmart. Instead, they will need to pay for shipping and handling, as well as any fees associated with getting the game back on the shelves.
