Do Game Pre-Orders Take Money?
When it comes to game pre-orders, many gamers are left wondering whether their money is being taken immediately or not. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of game pre-orders and explore the answers to this question.
Immediate Payment
Not all game pre-orders require immediate payment. In fact, most pre-orders are placed using a payment method, such as a credit card or debit card, but the payment is not processed immediately. This is because the game developer or publisher needs time to prepare the game for release, and the payment is only processed when the game is ready to ship.
Pre-Authorization Hold
When you pre-order a game, the payment method you used to make the purchase is put on hold for a small amount, usually around 10 days before the release date. This is called a pre-authorization hold. The hold is placed to ensure that the payment method is valid and that the funds are available to complete the transaction.
Temporary Authorization Hold
The pre-authorization hold is a temporary hold on your payment method, and it’s usually released once the game is released and shipped. If you cancel your pre-order, the hold will be released, and the funds will be returned to your account.
When Payment is Charged
Payment is usually charged when the game is shipped or when the pre-order is cancelled. This is because the game developer or publisher needs to confirm that the game is ready to ship before charging your payment method.
Payment Methods
The payment method you use to make a pre-order can affect when the payment is charged. For example:
- Credit Card: If you use a credit card to make a pre-order, the payment will usually be charged when the game is shipped.
- Debit Card: If you use a debit card to make a pre-order, the payment will usually be charged when the game is shipped, but the funds will be deducted from your account immediately.
- PayPal: If you use PayPal to make a pre-order, the payment will usually be charged when the game is shipped, but the funds will be held in your PayPal account until the game is released.
Pre-Order Benefits
Pre-ordering a game can come with many benefits, including:
- Early Access: Pre-ordering a game can give you early access to the game, sometimes up to a week before the official release date.
- Exclusive Content: Some games offer exclusive content, such as bonus levels or characters, to pre-order customers.
- Priority Shipping: Pre-order customers may receive priority shipping, which means their game is shipped out first.
- Discounts: Some games offer discounts to pre-order customers, which can be a great way to save money.
When to Pre-Order
So, when should you pre-order a game? Here are some tips:
- Release Date: Pre-order a game at least 2-3 weeks before the release date to ensure you get early access and any exclusive content.
- Pre-Order Bonuses: Check if the game offers any pre-order bonuses, such as exclusive content or early access.
- Payment Method: Make sure you have a valid payment method, such as a credit card or debit card, to complete the pre-order.
Conclusion
In conclusion, game pre-orders do not take money immediately. The payment method is put on hold for a temporary period, usually around 10 days before the release date. The payment is only charged when the game is shipped or when the pre-order is cancelled. Pre-ordering a game can come with many benefits, including early access, exclusive content, and priority shipping. Make sure to pre-order a game at least 2-3 weeks before the release date and check for any pre-order bonuses.