When Did Pre-Ordering Games Become a Thing?
Pre-ordering games has become a common practice in the gaming industry, allowing gamers to reserve a copy of a game before its release. But have you ever wondered when this concept first emerged? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of pre-ordering games and explore how it has evolved over time.
The Early Days
The concept of pre-ordering games dates back to the 1980s, when physical copies of games were the norm. Back then, games were released on cassette tapes, floppy disks, or cartridges, and gamers had to physically visit a store to purchase them. To ensure a copy of a highly anticipated game was available, gamers would often reserve a copy in advance by placing a pre-order with the retailer.
The Rise of Pre-Ordering
The 1990s saw the rise of pre-ordering games as a standard practice. With the advent of the Internet, online retailers like Electronic Arts (EA) and Activision began offering pre-order options for their games. This allowed gamers to reserve a copy of a game online, often with exclusive bonuses or early access to demos.
Benefits of Pre-Ordering
So, why did pre-ordering games become so popular? Here are some benefits that contributed to its widespread adoption:
- Guaranteed availability: By pre-ordering a game, gamers could ensure that they would receive a copy on release day, avoiding the risk of sold-out copies or long wait times.
- Exclusive bonuses: Many games offered exclusive bonuses or early access to demos for pre-order customers, making it a more attractive option.
- Early access: Pre-ordering games often granted early access to demos, beta tests, or even the full game before its official release.
- Savings: Pre-ordering games sometimes came with discounts or promotions, making it a more affordable option.
Types of Pre-Orders
There are several types of pre-orders, each with its own benefits and drawbacks:
- Digital pre-order: Pre-ordering a digital game allows gamers to download the game as soon as it’s released, often with exclusive bonuses.
- Physical pre-order: Pre-ordering a physical game ensures that gamers receive a copy of the game on release day, often with exclusive bonuses.
- Collector’s edition pre-order: Pre-ordering a collector’s edition of a game often comes with exclusive bonuses, artbooks, or other perks.
Pre-Ordering in the Digital Age
The rise of digital distribution platforms like Steam, GOG, and the Epic Games Store has changed the way we pre-order games. Today, pre-ordering games often comes with:
- Instant access: Digital pre-orders often grant instant access to demos, beta tests, or early access to the full game.
- Cloud saves: Digital pre-orders often allow gamers to access their saves from any device, making it easier to play on the go.
- Automatic updates: Digital pre-orders often come with automatic updates, ensuring that gamers receive the latest patches and updates.
Challenges and Controversies
While pre-ordering games has its benefits, there are also challenges and controversies to consider:
- No refunds: Some games have strict refund policies, making it difficult for gamers to cancel their pre-order if they change their mind.
- Delays and cancellations: Pre-ordering games can come with risks, such as delays or cancellations, which can leave gamers feeling frustrated and disappointed.
- Exclusivity: Some games offer exclusive bonuses or content for pre-order customers, which can create a sense of exclusivity and unfairness for those who don’t pre-order.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pre-ordering games has a rich history dating back to the 1980s. From physical copies to digital distribution platforms, pre-ordering has evolved to offer gamers a range of benefits and options. While there are challenges and controversies to consider, pre-ordering games remains a popular practice among gamers. Whether you’re a fan of physical copies or digital downloads, pre-ordering games can be a great way to ensure a copy of your favorite game is available on release day.