GameStop’s new pre-order strategy could see entire sections of gameplay locked out for those buying at rival retailers, which basically means the store chain could be involved during the game’s development process.
A report penned by Gamesbeat, claims that GameSpot recently met with investment firm R.W. Baird to discuss current and incoming trends within the games industry.
Baird analyst Colin Sebastian revealed that the chain is looking to become involved in the development process of new games to embed exclusive content within titles, accessible only to GameStop customers.
In an investor note, Sebastian wrote, “[GamesStop] indicated that software publishers are more enthusiastic about partnering with it. For example, by offering exclusive content on each major game release, and longer term, future models may include GameStop offering exclusive gameplay.”
When the site contacted GameSpot, spokesperson Jackie Smith confirmed Sebastian’s claim as “accurate,” and added, “We are working with our [development] partners to build in a longer lead time. And we are working with them to get both physical and digital exclusives for our customers.”
Hopefully, this won't pan out.
