Thats easy to get over. I just buy all my games from hong kong region free. I get most of them for $50 deleivered to my door.

• Posted by: davo on November 5, 2007 7:49 AM

Ask them for a breakdown of the costing model and precisely where the extra expense comes in for us.

• Posted by: NS on November 5, 2007 7:52 AM

I refuse to pay over $100 for any game no matter how good it is. I didn't even pay $100 for Halo 3. I got the special edition from David Jones because they had 15% off all their titles. So I got it for $95 there. It is ridiculous. In most cases I'm buying second hand games. Not from EB because they are just as much of a rip off. The Gamesmen have great second hand prices and JB is starting to offer second hand games as well at good prices.

I never thought to import becuase I would just shop around but now you've refreshed my memory that the PS3 is region free for games I just might import Ninja Gaiden on PS3 because I have no been able to find a second hand copy or a new copy under $120.

It's ridiculous considering also that game lengths are getting shorter and shorter to appeal to casual gamers and gamers who don't have time to sit through a 20 hour game. I know I don't but I'll chip away at a game for months like I'm currently doing with Twilight Princess.

As for your emails to the third parties Jason. I'm expecting you'll receive very similar responses from all of them. Can't wait to see them though. Good topic.

• Posted by: Austin on November 5, 2007 8:25 AM

I agree with the problem of importing the games as ultimately it does cause loss of revenue, therefore could result in a decrease of jobs. Although this would be a far off result considering the majority of casual gamers will always buy local.
Personally I just spend an extra 20 minutes on the phone shopping around before I buy a game. I picked up Guitar Hero II for $125 yesterday (the retail price was listed as $160.00). All it took was 3 phone calls and a convenient price match from EB Games.
Yes PlayAsia may be able to sell a game for $60-65AUD (not always including postage) however with stores like JB doing 90% of their new releases at $79AUD the convenience of instant gratification and not having to deal with the hassles of online ordering make the small increase in price negligible.

• Posted by: Matt B on November 5, 2007 8:42 AM

Never ever buy from EB or Game, they are more worse. They will rip you off. Import your games as much as possible. If you have to buy local, buy from JBHifi. NEVER EVER buy from EB or Game.

• Posted by: Peter on November 5, 2007 8:52 AM

i normally try to get my games 2nd hand or from ebay - or just wait for the specials. JB normally has pretty good prices - but the ps3 game prices are crazy anywhere.

anyway off the topic by a mile

did anyone here go to the pure pwnage ep 15 premiere in melbourne on saturday??

it was awesome

• Posted by: ben on November 5, 2007 9:06 AM

I buy all games from http://www.dvdcrave.com. They're based in South Australia I believe.

I got GRAW 2 for like 60 bucks and Halo 3 + Viva Pinata for 99 or thereabouts.

You add a few bucks due to shipping, but the convenience and the fact its cheaper than EB games makes it worth while.

But yeah, we're getting ripped off BAD when it comes to video games.

I look forward into hearing the responses to the questions you have asked also. Australians truly is the ass end of the world when it comes to technology and it sucks.

• Posted by: TOMATOR on November 5, 2007 9:07 AM

Today Screen Play begins a campaign to get a fair go for Australians in regard to game prices."

Yeah I second that Jason. Its about the retailers know we know they are reaping us off and we ain't putting up with it no more. No more ancient excuses about US dollar to Auss conversion rates and taxes. Its now bull.

If the distributors don't back down do you think a boycott would be an good idea?

• Posted by: masi on November 5, 2007 9:21 AM

While we are on the subject of price, why do we pay $699AUD for a 40gig PS3 in Australia while in the US its only $399USD?.... anyone?

• Posted by: Ben on November 5, 2007 9:26 AM

First of all. I can't see why there is so much hatred for EB-Games. They are on par with most game shops. They have special editions often enough.
As for pricing, yes it has been rediculous for such a long time. getting it overseas is so much better, and it is an essential message for gaming companies like EA and UBIsoft.
They are forgetting that Europe (and OZ) is becoming more and more a decent part of the revenue. Still, when the sweepstakes come through, only US citizens get to participate. Non-US customers are all regarded as second rate customers. Hence, if we force them out of business, then their EGO's might wake up to the fact that we aren't there to fund American discounts.
Anyway, it should be intheir interest too. Lots of console games don't make it out of USA until many months later. Wouldn't they prefer just one format? (even though NTSC isn't my first choice)

• Posted by: Lawrence van rijn on November 5, 2007 9:42 AM

I fully agree - games here are not fairly priced when compared to US. But just out of interest, what's the average pay for a game shop employee in the US compared to Aus?

• Posted by: AgoGo on November 5, 2007 9:43 AM

To be honest, I can't remember the last time I paid over $100 for a game. If you go to the right retailer (generally any retailer that isn't a Department Store or EB) then you'll be likely to find sub-100 prices.

I have always maintained that, for the price, a good game games value for money unlike any other entertainment medium you can find. However, I completely agree that if American Gamer can get it for approximately $60AUD, then why shouldn't Australian Gamer be paying something approximate to that?

• Posted by: Awesome Wells on November 5, 2007 9:49 AM

Well all i have to say is that JB sell them for about 80 buck or so...for new PS3 games...which is tad still to expensive..but when i go to target or whatever else they sell it at RRP which is really bad...there is like a $30 diffrence..btw..Big W are half decent...but JB is the way...and ebay is not to bad either...but by the time you pay for postage..it cheaper just to go to JB..
the reason i say this..when GT2 first came out i payed $80 for it..and i was like dude that is way to expensive if you cant wait...you pay simple as that...
just wait and you will start seeing PS3 games at $50 can't wait for that...

• Posted by: SonyLurver on November 5, 2007 9:52 AM

I agree completely that we are getting the rough end of the stick. Your example on Eye of Judgement sums it up. Sony is ripping off it's outlets. I really like the local Gametrader's staff and owners but I can't justify paying $160 for the game when I can get it from Play-Asia for less then $100 delivered. All other new release PS3 games are delivered for less then $75 for the US version from Play-Asia. I don't think I'll be paying over $100 for Haze, Assassin's Creed, Call Of Duty 4 and Ratchet and Clank.

• Posted by: Threeps on November 5, 2007 9:56 AM

It's about bloody time this changed in a meaningful way. I think the breaking point for me was seeing a $114 price-tag on a *pre-owned* copy of Transformers PS3 at EB. Seriously, it's a terrible game, a used copy, and they're still charging the equivalent of 6 music CDs, or 4 trips to the cinema with a partner, or three cases of beer, or a week's groceries. It's too much money to ever justify, and I'm sure they're losing truckloads of business because of it.

I never go into EB anymore. It just makes my heart sink every time I walk past to feel that an outlet of something I'm so excited about has been turned into a joke, a real-life parody of the "rip you off when you buy it and rip you off when you sell it back to us" philosophy that they've always operated with.

JB's good, and I think people should support local business that are trying to lower prices, but in the end I'm still due to order a handful of games from PlayAsia this November - just because there's a fair few I need, and not even JB's lowered prices will match the full RRP of a North American version shipped over here. For me the local buys will always be limited to a few token purchases when a bargain pops up, and the real stuff will be done online. Which is heartbreaking for a shopaholic retail whore like me.

• Posted by: jezz on November 5, 2007 10:07 AM

I'm surprised the retailers don't just by-pass the Australian distributors and buy direct from an American wholesaler. It would currently have to be cheaper. Perhaps some are already doing it - I've noticed Dungeon Crave down here often advertise in the Green Guide that they have copies of games in stock well before their Australian release- presumably they import them.

• Posted by: Kermit on November 5, 2007 10:08 AM

About time someone finally noticed this. They will argue that it's all about economics and buying power but that shouldn't account for prices being double in Oz. It's not just video games either. Power tools, snowboards, watches... All far, far cheaper in the States. I buy everything online from the states. Once I paid $200 to get something sent by fedex. It only cost $300 and i still saved $470??? Plus, you pay no GST on purchases under $1000!!!

• Posted by: Travis on November 5, 2007 10:12 AM

As mainly a PC gamer I've got the perfect solution. Buy online, direct from the USA. I've bought many games now in US$ as US prices. The orange box only cost me AU$55 and I had it on the US release day.

When I feel the need for a console game though, shopping around helps. It's rare to not find brand new games AU$20-30 cheaper than RRP from one of JB, EzyGames, KMart or BigW.

• Posted by: Brad on November 5, 2007 10:28 AM

We are living in the era of global economies and the internet so business has to adapt or die.

We have been ripped off blind by Sony through the entire PS3 debacle, and now with the dollar approaching price parity with the US, excuses for charging us more disappear.

I use JB where I can, but otherwise its the internet for me. I think specialised game stores days are numbered unless they start offering competitive prices and online services...

• Posted by: Dateman on November 5, 2007 10:33 AM

The fact that there's so many people here saying they can get $20-30 off by shopping around is interesting. Does that mean the high prices are basically all retail's fault? I didn't think that was the case....

• Posted by: Harvey on November 5, 2007 10:34 AM

I am very comfortable importing my games.



While I accept Jason's point about local retail jobs, supporting publishers that price gouge does little to help local business. If a great price disparity remains, it is perfectly legitimate to order from the cheapest region.



It should also be remembered that EB is an American business that doesn't franchise; all profits go overseas. Has everyone forgotten how they disrespect and rip off Australian gamers? The shameful Wind Waker bonus disk saga should be proof enough.

• Posted by: Phend on November 5, 2007 10:35 AM

Concur - pricing is laughable, as is the delays.

EB Games is the worst retail outlet in Australia. A lobotomy appears to be required as part of their interview process.

DS games are $40AUS online (with posting). That's almost half price. Outrageous.

• Posted by: deatrh to nerds on November 5, 2007 10:37 AM

yeh, games what a bloody rip off !!! and a rip-off for such a long time, i cant believe i saw cc3 and harvey normal still for $100 wtf??? and EB is a joke as well..ebay is your friend if u wanna save ur pennys!! ebay FTW>>>yeh and of course i understand all the hard work etc that goes into these games, but i still find it very unreasonable to spend nearly $100 a pop...
PS jason are you going to the games expo next week, ???
AND did u meet up with the boys from Pure Pwnage?? becuase i did and i got some awesome snaps with them !!!!

• Posted by: paul pwnage on November 5, 2007 10:38 AM

Wells perhaps if Gaming programmers got back to what really counts, Gameplay over Stunning visuals, then they could possibly bring the price down.

It's been a hell of a long time since a good game like tetris, worms or klax came out......

• Posted by: Thursty on November 5, 2007 10:43 AM

I've just found on Amazon a copy of Ninja Gaiden for $AUS68 including postage. Now that is ridiculous we're paying $120 out here.

As for whoever asked about the EB hatred. Every single time I've been to one of their stores I've always put up with staff who are so up themselves. They treat me like I'm an idiot and I've heard the way they talk to mothers and other kids who just want a question about their favourite game answered and they treat them so rudely. I'm sure not all the stores are like that but I've dealt with them in Wollongong, Bondi, Warrawong, Shellharbour, Sydney CBD, Wagga.

The Gamesmen have been great, JB hi fi as well. Even Harvey Norman are pretty good. They always seem to try to go above and beyond your request.

The only reason I'll walk in there is to find a second hand game I can't find anywhere else. They are always a last resort for me.

• Posted by: Austin on November 5, 2007 10:53 AM

To exhasperate the situation, distributors lock Australia out of digital downloads, forcing us to wait till local distribution and/or paying localy inflated prices.
It is beyond ludicrous that because companies can't get there act together with Australian distribution, we are locked out of digital downloads available to US for over a month. (looking at you Atari!)

Until there is an easy alternative though these morons will continue to provide crap, overpriced, much delayed releases and us aussies will just have to deal with it.

I wonder if either potential PM's has any thing to say about revisiting consumer laws to toughen the line in this area... Its long over due.

• Posted by: Terry on November 5, 2007 10:59 AM

YEH BEN !!
did anyone here go to the pure pwnage ep 15 premiere in melbourne on saturday??

it was awesome

* Posted by: ben on November 5, 2007 9:06 AM

i sure did ben, did u go mate?? i thought they were great and not full of them selves they came right out at both intervals and signed stuff photos and chatted with everyone, good on you guys from pure pwnage!!! they certainly made my nephew denis,s days, he thought the guys fantastic, LOL, denis was like, "he touched my arm,i might play better now" haha

• Posted by: paul pwnage on November 5, 2007 11:01 AM

Game prices are over the top.
But while the whole $Av$US debate makes for a nice headline, its really the comparison with the Euro that matters.
How do our prices stack up against those in Europe? That's the key...
The $US is capitulating against all currencies right now and comparing our prices to their's is misleading.

• Posted by: albe on November 5, 2007 11:06 AM

and they wonder why people go out their and chip their machines and copy games.

Its becasue the games are a FKN RIP OFF!!!

• Posted by: Mike Hunt on November 5, 2007 11:07 AM

to Paul Pwnage :

yeah got photos had a real good chat with Kyle(Geoff) as well as Jeremey(Jarret)

They were both really nice guys and very approachable

LOL i got to shake his hand too so im sure I'll be really 1337 now rofl

• Posted by: ben on November 5, 2007 11:18 AM

I used to think EB was a great store, until I stopped to think about how they were marketing their games and their price points. "Trade in your old playstation, 6 million games and your soul, and we'll give you $100 off the full priced PS3". What a f*ckin bargain.

I will never ever pay full price for a game any more, as Australia continue to get ripped off. JB seem to knock at least $20 of the RRP of new release games, and they are always having promos on older games to move the stock (I just picked up Viva Pinata yesterday for $39). I have yet to try playasia as I'm just not sure about the region free games, but I'd prefer to buy from them if JB doesn't have the game cheap.

$ony, M$, Nintendo and pretty much all publishers - quite frankly all of them suck on pricing in Australia. So I say do not buy at full price in Australia. Buy games only on sale, or import and force the prices down. Lower demand = lower prices.

• Posted by: Smoolander on November 5, 2007 11:21 AM

I'm glad someone is giving this issue some attention.

Because games cost so much more here than they do in other regions I feel forced into only buying the value for money, lengthy titles like your zelda's and mario's.

I'm concerned that this is causing a lack of consumer interest in decent but short 3rd party titles which is in turn causing 3rd parties to question the value of developing for certain regions. Trauma Centre: Second Opinion anyone?

Taking into account economies of scale, taxes shipping, etc. I think AU$70-80 is fair for a top notch Wii game while budget titles should check in at $50 or less.

I recently picked up a new copy of Mercury Meltdown Revolution for AU$30 which goes to show that retailers can make money at lower prices.

It sounds like we need to build some transparency into the system. How about gamers collaborate on an online list of the major australian retailers and the prices they charge for games. That might force a bit more downward pressure on prices.

• Posted by: Dunks on November 5, 2007 11:23 AM

I put my poker face on when going into EB these days, when they first arrived in oz, it was cool, it was a haven I felt comfortable in, I felt right at home. But over the years, the 3 EB stores in and around my area have turned bad in my opinion, and i have the same complaints others have about them.

I have had bad experiences with price matching/pre-ordering and all sorts of things and there have been just too many bad experiences and no more fun good relaxing conversations with the staff like I get at the Gamesmen for example.

I too have seen pre-owned games for over $100 at EB, what an absolute joke, why not import, or buy off ebay?? Like Angelo said in the Gamesmen interview, why should customers be loyal to him or to anyone, go get the best price.

It is a ruthless market, it is like a battle between consumers and retailers these days, buying a new game is like a practise run of going to a used car dealer, thats the same feeling i get because i know im being bent over by gaming prices.

• Posted by: Maniak on November 5, 2007 11:30 AM

Has anyone, or does anyone know of someone that has purchased a console from playasia? - what was their experience like? besides saving over $200AUD!

• Posted by: Ben on November 5, 2007 11:37 AM

I agree that pricing is a joke.
I shopped around for The Orange Box, prices ranged from $80-$100.

Then I looked at Steam, a direct download cost me $56. It cuts out the distributor and the retailer, and all I miss out on is a pretty box. I'd have no problem purchasing all my games this way in the future if it brings the price down that much.

• Posted by: Adam F on November 5, 2007 11:47 AM

I think its disgusting how the retailers are cashing in on the exchange rate without passing on the savings.

The PS3 could be a great device if only parasites on the gravy train weren't so busy trying to rip off consumers. Sony (and MS) should be enforcing a pricing structure for all software under their development licences.

Software should be rated, taking into account title length, quality of assets and underlying investment costs. I think developers need a financial inducement to produce a title that is greater then the usual 5-10 hour, $120 title we find in the shops.

The problem is for a developer is why bother when although your work is creating the wealth, your the last in the receiving chain.

Retailers should be required, if they want to on sell this software, to abide by the pricing structure set in the licence.

But at the end of the day as is the case with music and film, developers and artist need to cast away the business model that serves to rip them off completely.

There is a little thing called the Internet that has revolutionised the distribution of media.

Its sad to realise but this situation is not unlike how farmers produce, purchased by Woolworths for a fraction, is being sold with a massive market up.

The primary producer is being ripped off by a business model created and enforced by parasites.

How disgusting is it that retailers and the publishers are in their own right earning more per title then the creator of the software itself?

If I knew $70 of the money being paid for a game was going straight to the pocket of a developer I'd be happy to pay the price.

And yet the reality is that these people are seeing a pittance.

Worse still these parasites, the retailers and publishers have the gall to cry wolf about piracy and how its stealing from artists.

Their duplicity and disingenuous claims only compel me to great heights of copyright infringement.

So let us boycott retailers who profiteer on the backs of artists.

• Posted by: Peter on November 5, 2007 11:51 AM

I am very happy you are taking up this fight. The price we pay for games is ridiculous and something needs to be done.

Speaking to a friend in the industry here, he told me that his publishing department believe our prices are a result of a strong "discount mentality" in Australia. We want the prices high because we generally won't buy until the game comes down in price a little. I partly call bull-dust, but because of the current high prices I find myself waiting until I see a game for sale second hand.

• Posted by: Joel on November 5, 2007 11:54 AM

I have imported only one game since I got my PS3, and from that experience I think I might do it again. However, it is quite easy to find games for under $100. I have 6 PS3 games and the most expensive was Oblivion, which I got for $94 from JB. So while there are some games that I'll probably import, I'll only do it if I can't first find it at a reasonable price locally.

• Posted by: Falooza on November 5, 2007 12:01 PM

The fact that there's so many people here saying they can get $20-30 off by shopping around is interesting. Does that mean the high prices are basically all retail's fault? I didn't think that was the case....

* Posted by: Harvey on November 5, 2007 10:34 AM

The $20-30 is a discount taken off the game's RRP by the retailer. The problem here is that the RRP of games in Australia is so damned high. So places that sell games at the RRP (EB etc) are derided as hideously expensive, especially when other places do discounting.

Should we fault a retailer for selling a game at the RRP? They can sell cheaper and still make a profit, but many simply won't do this (except to clear excess stock) until the RRP is reduced. In my mind, that doesn't automatically make it the retailer's fault for high prices, but it won't encourage me to shop there either.

• Posted by: lex on November 5, 2007 12:07 PM

Like many here, I've practically given up on the retail scene for software. $120 is just an insane price for a game, regardless of the development costs or distribution matrix or whatever their bulls&*t excuse is.

Simple equation works out like this; gamers are intimately aware of this thing called the internet, where games can be acquired locally or from overseas at prices 30-50% cheaper. When enough ordinary people become aware of this fact, the overpriced retail market will die.

• Posted by: Sanchez on November 5, 2007 12:29 PM

as most other I hate EB . I buy most games at JB . Especially as they are doing trade ins now . I had 3 games to trade on VF5 the other day . I went to EB and JB . JB gave $5 more and the game was $5 cheapear so I saved $10 . Not much but if I was a "dedicated" games supplier I would want to be cheaper than everyone . and their 2nd hand prices are just a joke . $90 second hand . Does anyone pay that ?

• Posted by: matt on November 5, 2007 12:32 PM

I personally have no beef with EB, mainly because I was employed there, but because no matter the product, if you shop smart and look around before you buy your going to get a good deal.

EB employ the price matching and seven day return policy. Both of which making buying games alittle more bearable.

People seem to forget that selling games, is still a business. No matter how much you want to believe that they are there because they love games (although the staff might be hardcore gamers) they company was STILL built, to make money.

I don't think you will see any major drop in game prices for a long which (if ever) mainly because of that.. We now days, are earning more money and thus, the big companies want their share of it.

JB don't offer a return policy so if you don't like the (console) game you buy, you can't bring it back. EB do, and help with the loss that they endure with that (the amount of games we get coming back "I didn't like it." are scratched beyond repair and then they have to ship them back at THERE loss) They keep the RRP at the price on the sticker. Doesn't mean you cant take five minutes of your time to bring a catalogue in and price match.

Again, I think people forget this IS a business, and price's are relative to the benefits you gain, depending on the store.

Its had to see any price drops in the future.

• Posted by: sid on November 5, 2007 12:41 PM

I buy games through Valve's Steam software so I can get what I want cheaper and faster than retail. You can even pre-download games so they are ready to play as soon as the release date ticks over. Of course not all titles are available through Steam, but they have a lot of good games.

• Posted by: Misty on November 5, 2007 12:44 PM

@ sid . the price matching is a pain in the ass. I'm supposed to walk into a store and prove to them I saw it cheaper so they'll give me the same price?? couldnt be bothered . I'll just buy it the first time . If they offer to beat any price by $5-$10 I'll be intrested

• Posted by: matt on November 5, 2007 12:51 PM

@ Sid

That's why you rent first and try before you buy. Lol. The total cost of the rental from Blockbuster and then buying from JBHiFi is STILL mostly cheaper than the ripoff artists that are EB Games.

But you're right that it IS a business, and my business (and everyone elses) will be going to the retailer that has the best price (which is almost never EB Games LMAO!)

• Posted by: Peter on November 5, 2007 12:55 PM

I’d like to invite you all to sit back and think for a minute
I’m not a game player, retailer or distributor and have no interest in game pricing save that my kids will soon want them. I work for an importer in another unrelated area however and know why pricing issues here are disparate with the US in many areas. Please consider
o US prices are GST free and retail prices don’t include tax which is charged at POS and varies from state to state (c.5%-15%)
o US has much greater economies of scale so dealers need to make a smaller margin to survive
o In most industries e-tailers sell direct to consumers, driving down prices because, without the additional costs of face to face retailing costs are substantially lower
o Retailing is one of the largest employers of Australians; gross profit is the only source of this income
o Distributors need to carry any warranty issues and often are not adequately covered by manufacturers
o Most US and European retailers work on similar if not identical profit margins to European and US dealers

I believe that we do pay too much for many of the items that we buy but by and large this relates to inefficiencies in our commercial infrastructure and poor and inefficient business processes by many retailers and distributors. Unfortunately we need to be that much better because of our smaller marketplace.
The next couple of years will bring radical changes to the way that we do business and better pricing will follow but for now talk to your dealers and let them know what you’re doing and why. Crunch the numbers and tell them what you are prepared to pay and negotiate.
Pricing issues are not the fault of those you are blaming and they need you’re qualified and learned support

• Posted by: Greg on November 5, 2007 12:56 PM

About time, Jason! Australians AND Canadians are being fleeced right now as their dollars are doing FAR better in the past when compared to American dollars, but are still paying through the nose for content.

Great job! You've got my full support

• Posted by: Steve on November 5, 2007 1:13 PM

One of the main reasons the prices are so high is because of the cost of actually purchasing the games from suppliers, so the issue for NEW games isn't necessarily with the retail stores themselves. Back when I was working for an independent store (2003-5) we were only making, on a non-traded title, around 20% over what we paid for the games, when you take into account the actual cost, tax & freight charges. Then factor in wages, utilities, marketing (flyers, brochures) and store rent (which is just stupid in some cases) then you're not making much per title.

The reason JB can be so flexible with their prices is because that's their business model. They buy stupidly large amounts of each game, and because they can afford to do this suppliers are willing to offer them a slightly better deal (not a massive saving, but does let them keep up their margins and remain price competitive).

I do take issue with EB on their trading policies, especially the rampant mark up they apply to all their traded product. Except for possibly the newest of the new games, they'll give you a much lower price to buy it back (credit) then sell it at a massive mark-up (I've seen a 100% mark up in some cases).

The next time they have a deal like "trade in xx number of games + console" with no exclusions, go to like a Blockbuster or smaller dealer, buy every single $10 or less title and trade all those in, even multiple copies, can't say no can they (no exclusions!)

So perhaps the issue here (excluding traded titles) isn't so much with the stores themselves, but the studios. Badger them as to why their cost prices are so high. Apologies for the rant :)

• Posted by: Steve on November 5, 2007 1:14 PM

@Joel

I'm not sure if you explained that badly but it sounded like we want prices high so we can buy things cheap later... o_O?

• Posted by: DP on November 5, 2007 1:22 PM

I like to buy retail, even if it costs me extra.
Although I stay the hell away from EB, and JB to an extent.
There is this one store I go to in the melbourne cbd called Dungeon Crawl, which I find to be an excellent store. When I went to buy the Orange Box I first went by EB, as it was the closest, and there was no mention of it at all anywhere in the store, then I went to JB, and it was a similar situation, and then I went by Dungeon Crawl and as I was walking into the store the guy behind the counter was just pulling them straight from the box and handed it to me. I'm probably going to go there first from now on.
(Corner of Elizabeth and Bourke, if anyone is interested)

• Posted by: Mickiscoole on November 5, 2007 1:31 PM

*@ sid . the price matching is a pain in the ass. I'm supposed to walk into a store and prove to them I saw it cheaper so they'll give me the same price?? couldnt be bothered . I'll just buy it the first time . If they offer to beat any price by $5-$10 I'll be intrested

Posted by: matt on November 5, 2007 12:51 PM*

-----------------------

But what if you don't like said game? You can't (once you have opened it) bring it back to JB, and get something else. And again it seems you forget that this is business. It's just not logical to go knocking off $5 - $10 because 5% of people wont take the time too look. Most people are happy to do it.

*@ Sid

That's why you rent first and try before you buy. Lol. The total cost of the rental from Blockbuster and then buying from JBHiFi is STILL mostly cheaper than the ripoff artists that are EB Games.

But you're right that it IS a business, and my business (and everyone elses) will be going to the retailer that has the best price (which is almost never EB Games LMAO!)*

-----------------------

How old are you? And do you REALLY run a business? Because if you did, you would know how hard that really is.

As for renting, I see no point. If I like the game, I want to keep it. I don't want to pay $5 to see if I like it, THEN go out and buy it. I would rather buy it and if I don't like it, take it back for something else or my money back.

The only thing with EB I have NEVER liked, is the Pre-Owned games prices. Sometimes you find a good deal, but most of the time its far to expensive. But then some people are willing to save that extra $5 - $10 there because they are too lazy to look around....

Either way, these companys are going to be making bucket loads of cash for a long time to come.

• Posted by: sid on November 5, 2007 1:33 PM

Never ever buy from EB or Game, they are more worse. They will rip you off. Import your games as much as possible. If you have to buy local, buy from JBHifi. NEVER EVER buy from EB or Game.

Posted by: Peter on November 5, 2007 8:52 AM

Dont know if they are "More Worse", Games are expensive regardless here is Oz. I have a good relationship with my local EB manager and he always price matches for me. I like the idea that I can return the game if I dont like it. Do JB HiFi do that yet?

I have imported from playasia, I've bought from dvdcrave, etc. It is rubbish that we are treated this way!! Developers can say that development costs are higher and thats fair... if you can show why we pay more for games than anywhere else in the damn world. Otherwise, stop acting like Sony and trying to rip Aussies off!

Did they learn nothing from the PS3 pricing issue?

Anyhow, I've boycotted EA games since the online fiasco they tried to pull on us back on the original Xbox. EA seem to think they dont need the consumer.... EA, a good game is more than just a license.

I hope you go bankrupt.

• Posted by: happy with mine on November 5, 2007 1:34 PM

@ Steve

The problem is, there can be exclusions on multiple copys. When it says conditions apply, that covers it. We had a limit on 3 (of the same copy) per traid in.

And I don't think its the studios, its also the publishers, and the wonders of TAX!

-_-

• Posted by: sid on November 5, 2007 1:37 PM

Jason, do you know at what price retailers are paying for the games before they go onto the shelves?

I notice that retailers like EB and JB HiFi can reduce the games' prices (like MotorStorm to $80) so I would be interested to know the margin between the price the retails pay and what the consumers pay.

• Posted by: Paul on November 5, 2007 1:40 PM

If you want convenience go to EB or Games, and pay for the privelidge. How many $$ are spent chasing a cheaper deal?
My beef with EB is that when you pre-order a game,EB keep the gift
With GT4 , pre-orders were meant to get a cap, i pre-ordered GT4 from EB and was told there was no 'pre-order' gift. They then proceed to sell GT4 hats when the game is released. I now use EB to make my 'shopping list'or find out release dates and then buy online.
Stuff em, they are thieves!!!!

• Posted by: 5series on November 5, 2007 1:54 PM

Living in Singapore, we get new games here for around (S)$60. That's a little over 40 of your Australian dollars. I'm not trying to gloat, just pointing out the ridiculousness of the pricing disparity between Australia and the rest of the world. $100+ for a game is insane. I encourage everyone to import their games or get them off ebay, not simply for the savings, but on principle. Until aussie consumers take matters into their own hands, they'll continue to get screwed.

• Posted by: Paul on November 5, 2007 2:00 PM

@ Paul

Paul it's usually only about a 20% mark up over the cost + GST (and factoring in frieght too).

Also you'll see from time to time a game suddenly drop, usually because they know a studio is about to issue a mark down so they drop the price just before hand and claim back the difference on the copies they sold earlier.

• Posted by: Steve on November 5, 2007 2:03 PM

Dungeon Crawl also have an ebay store where prices look pretty good compared to other online stores (I find them cheaper than DVDCrave)

• Posted by: Dateman on November 5, 2007 2:08 PM

@ Sid

"How old are you? And do you REALLY run a business? Because if you did, you would know how hard that really is. "

LMAO! I can see that went right over your head, mate. I meant "my business", my money (and everyone elses) will be going to the retailer that offers the best prices. Is that clear enough for you?

"As for renting, I see no point. If I like the game, I want to keep it. I don't want to pay $5 to see if I like it, THEN go out and buy it. I would rather buy it and if I don't like it, take it back for something else or my money back."

LMAO @ you again. As I said before, the price of the Blockbuster rental and purchase (if you like the game) from eg. JBHifi is often cheaper than the retail price of EB Games. Stop trying to defend them. You admitted to working for them and that pretty much makes your arguments and view point useless in this debate and discussion.

• Posted by: Peter on November 5, 2007 2:19 PM

@5series
You should have called EB's head office. Thats stealing. Staff can be, and have been fired for doing that. Any pre-order gifts are not payed for by EB, but given to us to give to our customer base by the publishers.

Staff, unless we pre-order, don't get the stuff for free unless its given directly to us by the publisher.

• Posted by: sid on November 5, 2007 2:20 PM

I have a big beef with EB's price matching policy... what are the actual conditions of it? I wanted to buy a title off EB retailing for $109 when I brought in a catalogue showing a competitor had it for $89 and said they wouldn't match it because the competitor's store was not within the same shopping complex?

But Dick Smith powerhouse in Chatswood surprised me , Still searching for this X360 game, I just happened to be in Dick Smith Chatswood and saw it for its $109 RRP and not having the JB catalogue on me, asked if they did price matching. The salesman rang JB and confirmed their price (even though it was not in the same "complex" and they price matched it to $89.. I was hugely surprised... here was a dedicated gaming store in EB treating me like a dickhead when I tried to price match (one of their selling points) and I ended up getting a price match from a Dick Smith store...better service and with a smile too from a place that isnt a bread and butter gaming store.

• Posted by: Maniak on November 5, 2007 2:26 PM

ok time for Priest to throw in his 2 cents,

Yes we are getting ripped off.
Yes EB is expensive
Yes buying online will save you money.

But and i think i speak for all geeks when i say CBF, im willing to pay an extra $20 to get the game NOW, to be able to send it back in a week (for a full refund) just because i didnt like it and in regards to price matching, this may not work for everyone but i just walk into eb, go to the counter "whats the cheapest you've seen (insert game title) for" and thats what i pay.

EB isnt the best store in the world but its easy, efficent and in my experience reliable.

In regards to EB "stealing" promo stuff and selling it, it has always been my expieriance that EB (at least the werribee one) would be over stocked with the promo gear and end up giving it out to staff and god friends (myself included) IDK %110 but i get the feeling that every EB is very different to the others and it depends greatly on the staff and your relationship with them as to wether or not it is worth shopping there.

• Posted by: priest on November 5, 2007 2:37 PM

I have started buying XBOX360 Games from JB HIFI because they are selling some new realeaes from $80 (PGR4 came out at $79 and Halo 3 was $80). Apart from their prices EB never have a good selection and they mix new games with pre owned games. Even though they are pricey my local Harvey Norman has the best range which are laid out nicely. If i do buy a game from EB it is for the game gurantee all you do is get them to mathc the price.

• Posted by: Mark Henson on November 5, 2007 2:41 PM

i think my opinion on EB games is more than a little bit bias now that i think on it, EB has never really been a store to me, more a place where i can chat to mates. I have never worked for EB games but i have sold games there (i was wearing a work shirt and someone started asking me for help), gone to staff games expos and even beaten the EB area manager in a Halo 2 lan at his house. So my opinion is slightly biased.

• Posted by: priest on November 5, 2007 2:45 PM

sid "But what if you don't like said game? You can't (once you have opened it) bring it back to JB, "

yeah thats true and I do think the return policy is cool. I'm fussy with my game purchases . I'm a (wannabe? lol) musician so most of my spending money goes on musical toys . I dont buy a game unless I'm really into it . The only game I have bought and wouldve traded back is lost planet

• Posted by: matt on November 5, 2007 2:46 PM

The US is plainly bigger and economically diverse. I live in the US and love the variety and prices as compared to home. But get a life, prices will be as high as people are willing to pay. econ101

• Posted by: Michael Henson on November 5, 2007 2:48 PM

Jason,

I think it would be great to see a cost breakdown for the average game.

Something like:

Quake Wars: Enemy Territory - RRP $89.99

Developer: $9.99
Publisher: $25.00
Shipping/Distribution: $10.00
Marketing: $10.00
Retailer: $35.00

Show us what the pie looks like Jason ! :-)

• Posted by: RealityCheck on November 5, 2007 2:58 PM

I find I buy most of my games and consoles from EB or JB, I have found EB to be quite good with their price matching and usually just take my word for it, maybe because they know me from coming in regularly.
I have also purchased from play asia (xbox wireless receiver, $100US with fed ex shipping, it got here in 2 days). And it is far cheaper, however I do worry about the whole gaming compatibility with buying games overseas, especially on the xbox.
I would buy all of my games overseas if I knew for sure the compatibility and that online servers were dictated by the console and not the game.

• Posted by: Chris Lee on November 5, 2007 2:58 PM

@Peter

Sorry for reading it wrong mate, but I was speed reading.

Anyway, I no longer work for them, and even if I did I don't see how this should make my agrument any less valid. I still spend my money on games, and I still want to save some money, and get the best deal.

As for the rental price topic, I would rather pricematch JB, at EB and get the 7 days. Thats what I was getting at. I would rather that, then pay the extra rental fee.

I also agree with priest, I'm lazy when it comes down to it. I want my games, NOW. I like to be able to walk in, look around and pick.

• Posted by: sid on November 5, 2007 3:35 PM

Re priest and sid:


The EB promo issue is what I was referring to with my Wind Waker comment above. I don't go near EB anymore, so I am disgusted to hear that this is still happening.


This is exactly what they did with the Wind Waker bonus disc. They bought up nearly all the special edition copies from Nintendo; very few copies reached other retailers. They took out the bonus disc, made up their own dodgy unofficial cover and sold it separately for $50. They were charging $149.95 (in two parts) for a game that had an RRP of $99.95. Other retailers sold their stock legitimately for $99.95 or less as recommended by Nintendo (not that they received many after EB took most of it). I should know; I was running an online games retailer at the time and we did not receive our full allocation of Wind Waker stock. The talk around the industry was that Nintendo was very pissed at EB, but had little power to stand up to their biggest customer during the Cube days.


EB 'generously' gave away the $50 bonus disk to pre-order customers though, so some people were led to believe that it was a 'pre-order only special'; not officially, that was EB's invention.


And to end my rant, that is why I never shop at EB.

• Posted by: Phend on November 5, 2007 4:07 PM

also it doesnt hurt that i make enough money that a $20 difference isnt an issue for me, lols all i do is work all day and play games all night so spending my monies on games doesnt bother me.

• Posted by: priest on November 5, 2007 4:18 PM

Do Yanks really pay $60? I know most US stores advertise prices ex-tax so you could be looking at an extra 10-20% (I don't know what their tax rate is) bumping the price to maybe $70. Hell you might even have to tip the guy at the counter - tipping is for slaves!

How hard can it be to regionalise? Find and replace a set list of words? I'm sure it's more involved than we think but most intros/cut scenes use the game engine so you don't have to PAL-ify them. I doubt they go so far as tweaking game detail for optimal PAL framerates. It seems like we're getting ripped.

• Posted by: TJ on November 5, 2007 4:20 PM

"But get a life, prices will be as high as people are willing to pay. econ101"
* Posted by: Michael Henson on November 5, 2007 2:48 PM

Not exactly true - if the price of a game was $500, you still might get a dozen die-hards that buy it, but the majority of people won't.
If the price was $50, you might get 20 times more customers.
So hypothetically, because 12*500 Economies are a balance. econ101

• Posted by: asdf on November 5, 2007 4:36 PM

part of the problem is the publishers.

When the wholesale price to stores is $68 Australian for a PC game then its already priced over the cost of the same in the U.S before the store puts their % on top.

• Posted by: David on November 5, 2007 4:40 PM

Argh!.. the blog thought part of my last comment was a HTML tag because I put a < symbol in it. The end should have read:

So hypothetically, because 12*500 [IS LESS THAN SYMBOL] 240*50, you'll make more money with the lower price.
Economies are a balance. econ101

• Posted by: asdf on November 5, 2007 5:11 PM

Ditto

• Posted by: Joka on November 5, 2007 5:30 PM

Why are we comparing to Yank prices?

It's Europe that counts ... sorry if it spoils the fun but its fact

Have a look at what we are paying compared to the Euro and the pound

• Posted by: albe on November 5, 2007 6:40 PM

The legitimisation of parallel importing did wonders to the price of CDs. I'd like to see more of that with games.

• Posted by: wandrew on November 5, 2007 7:06 PM

So let us boycott retailers who profiteer on the backs of artists.

* Posted by: Peter on November 5, 2007 11:51 AM

To be fare, not all the blame is on the retailers. I had a friend who worked for EB; I said it must be awesome getting a staff discount, he said "it isn't that great, there isn't that much of a margin" (I assume that's a bit different on those $120 conjobs...). I don't know what EB and co pay to the distributors, but they're probably a big chunk of the pie too.

Thanks to Jason for bringing this subject up.

• Posted by: Mr Waffle on November 5, 2007 8:43 PM

I import where I can, usually if theres a delay between a US release and our local one. If there out at the same time I just go to JB where its probably going to be $79. I dont give a stuff who I buy from.. as long as they are the cheapest thats where I will shop.

Everyone can hate on EB, Game etc all you want its not going to change anything. Fact remains its not just gaming stores.. its on all manner on imported goods at the moment. And if you look to JB as your gaming retailer god maybe you should look into their last FY profit reports.. cause guess what.. their ripping you off too!

Who cares.. find a good price and move on..

.. BTW someone asked for experience shopping for consoles at playasia? I got my PS3 from them.. shipping took two days. PS3 box was bubble wrapped. Then put in another box with polostyreane balls. Got two free PS2 games and some lollies for free as a surprise in the box too. Service was A1 imo.

• Posted by: Patrick on November 5, 2007 9:17 PM

Onya Jason!

This question has been un-answered for far too long! Maybe we should get the ACCC involved?

• Posted by: Desktop General on November 5, 2007 9:27 PM

Seems PS3 is the only next-gen console that gives you a choice - plays games from all regions... sought makes up for the initial hefty price tag

• Posted by: AgoGo on November 5, 2007 9:34 PM

Big W has good prices on games from time to time, Call of Duty 4 for $88 this week, I got Rainbow Six Vegas there for $64. Other than that JB Hi Fi is by far the most consistently cheapest. Just keep an eye on their catalogues. EB Games is a deadset ripoff.

• Posted by: Chris on November 5, 2007 11:15 PM

From a retailers point of view selling new release australian games have very little profit margins. example Enemy Territory Quake Wars our cost is $65 approx. Call of Duty 4 our cost is $85 approx.
Consoles are even worst - PS3 cost price is $663 for a sale price of $699.

but its a fun business to have, it wont make us rich, but we are having a great time.

thanks
costa
www.gamemania.com.au

• Posted by: costa gavras on November 6, 2007 7:05 AM

I checked out GAME when they opened in Canberra a few weeks ago- they are selling the budget range for the Wii (Ninjabread Man and those other 'Popcorn' whatever it is games) for $99.95!

I said to one of the pink-clad store workers that those titles are $50 everywhere else- and he just shrugged at me.

• Posted by: Adam from Canberra on November 6, 2007 8:57 AM

Ok, it's pretty clear we aussies get a rough deal - when compared to prices in Japan and USA. But you know what - there are thousands of gamers who are not living in the '1st World' - just as example of a country I recently visited, a genuine copy of FIFA 08 costs the equivilent of about 10 DAYS WAGES (8hr days!!!!). Just a thought ... (I guess that's why they pirate...)

• Posted by: AgoGo on November 6, 2007 11:02 AM

@Greg on November 5, 2007 12:56 PM

Thanks for articulating my thoughts better than I could of.

@Orig Post
While I know it's outside the scope of a blog post Jason, it would be good if you could convince your higher ups to let you do an article on where the gouging happens (asuming it is.)

The whole issue does take me back to the Sony rep interview answer to your exchange rate question though (for other readers: abridged answer was "We will charge what we want for RRP regardless of what we are saving on exchange rates")

• Posted by: Anthony on November 6, 2007 12:18 PM

Honestly, EB really are a rip off. They put max RRP on games so that they can maximise their profits via their trade in system - unless you wheedle and cajole the person behind the counter they wont price match AND do a trade-in. And don't get me started on how they take advantage of their keen gamer employees who are in their 'dream job'...

If you ever have to buy from them ALWAYS ALWAYS get a price match, and even then the only reason I would encourage you to do that is to play a game you aren't 100% sure of so that you can take advantage of their no-guilt 7 day return policy. And for the record, your returned games get resold as if they were new, so you can't be sure you are getting a brand new disc unless its sealed.

To be honest, and this may surprise you guys, but Toys R Us USUALLY has the best price on new release games, and sell very close to cost. You just have to hassle the employee behind the counter to FIND it for you, as alot of the time they are slow on putting new release games on display.

• Posted by: Dashi on November 6, 2007 1:39 PM

On the cost prices of games:

Here's a rough guide (AUD and excluding GST):

Wii $60-70
PS3 $70-85
360 $70-80
DS $40-50

This is for a retailer with say, medium purchasing power. Larger chains such as EB will often recieve their games at a reduced cost price because they buy so much. Also some companies sell their new release games to retailers at a high cost (*cough* EA *cough*) while others are less greedy and offer a comparatively lower cost price.

As a previous poster mentioned, when you factor in tax, shipping, and operational costs like wages, games really do not represent alot of profit to retailers that sell below RRP. It's a very competitive retail arena.

Just thought I'd make an attempt to put it in perspective - always worth looking on the other side of the coin. =)

• Posted by: Dashi on November 6, 2007 2:06 PM

I'd love to hear how Microsoft justify the disparity in price between the American and Australian markets for a years worth of Live Gold. Seeing as there is no distribution, packaging etc.

• Posted by: Awesome Wells on November 6, 2007 3:14 PM

Re: Awesome Wells on November 6, 2007 3:14 PM

Do they run any Australian-based servers?
If not, then that is an awesome example of raising prices here just because they can...

If so, they could probably blame it on the ridiculous price of bandwidth in Aus compared to the US.

• Posted by: dude on November 6, 2007 3:49 PM

"I hate hearing that Screen Play readers are increasingly turning to importing their games rather than buying local, which costs Australian jobs in the retail and games distribution industries"
hahaha - my heart goes out to those unemployed australian games retailers and distributors...
I don't see why we're encouraged to push sh*t up hill with a sharp stick, just because it's australian sh*t (or the wholly owned sh*tty australian subsidiary of an Evil multinational).
If it's faster, cheaper (and friendlier) to source this stuff overseas then let the laws of physics apply.

• Posted by: julio on November 6, 2007 10:45 PM

Hi All, with all this talk about importing games and personally never having done it before, can someone give me a few site i can have a look into.

Thanks in advance.

• Posted by: GOB on November 7, 2007 7:16 AM

GOB,

I have been using this company.

http://www.videogamesplus.ca/

for the last 3 years. Prices are reasonable, shipping is fast, and they actually test all the 360 games on their blog to see if they are multi-region.

• Posted by: Todd on November 7, 2007 10:04 AM

Walked into EB and it had on the wall the trade in $$$ of some games. Rainbow Six was $59. Right underneath the poster was a copy of Rainbow Six 2nd hand for $109.95.

That is sickening. $60 for a sticker to be put on the cover. Where I live EB games has a monopoly on 2nd hand. I only use them to purchase pre-releases, sale items and PSP 2nds.

Although those arrogant SOB's that work in EB make me want to play my own little game of Manhunt, if I owned my local store I wouldn't change a thing. It's all about $$$. That's business.

Here in the country we don't have the competition. I'm making a note to buy when I go to the city but some things I must own....

Like COD4 in 1.25 hours!!!! Wahoo, I will be waiting at the EB doors like a junky who says he will stop using that dealer, but knows that when the good stuff is in town...

• Posted by: terrarocks on November 7, 2007 11:13 AM

RANT: Screw you EB Games and your dodgey business. You just lost a customer for all but the most petty tight-ars purchases. I would never run a business like you arrogant SOBs.

EB rang me on Monday to let me know COD4 would be in this morning at 9am. I rocked up early only to discover that they were talking about the 360 version, not the PS3. I took the day off work so you bastards could screw me around. They know my opinion on the 3SUXty. There customer service was bad and they showed no remorse at having called me for a game that they dont have.

Learn some customer service EB, you are not the only fish in the pond. I told the EB dweeby geek that if another shop in town gets COD4 first then I will need my $$$ back. I'm hoping Harvey Norman wins the local COD race.

Where is my game???

• Posted by: terrarocks on November 7, 2007 11:23 AM

Hi All, with all this talk about importing games and personally never having done it before, can someone give me a few site i can have a look into.

Posted by: GOB on November 7, 2007 7:16 AM

Personally, for new games I mainly use-

For Japanese games- hmv.co.jp (they have an English version)
For American (well, Canadian) games- dvdboxoffice.com
For both- yesasia.com, playasia.com

Ebay is the best for older/second hand games, naturally. There are a lot of American and Asian Ebay stores... just keep an eye on the postage.

Sometimes you have to go extreme lengths to get limited import games- eg for the Hellgate London collector's edition I ended up getting a Singaporean CE off ebay (hopefully it's not a screwjob), or when Another Century's Episode 3 on PS2 was released I could only find the preorder limited edition on amazon.co.jp, who wouldn't send it overseas, so had to get it sent to a friend teaching English over there who then sent it to me. :P

As above, videogamesplus tests all their 360 titles for region coding, which is fantastic. I only learnt of them recently (via a previous post here) and I'm definitely considering them for future 360 purchases.

• Posted by: Mr Waffle on November 7, 2007 11:29 AM

COMPLAIN TO EB GAMES

Let you voice be heard.

EB Games has an online complaint service:
http://www.ebgames.com.au/home/contact.cfm

Everybody, please go to this page and lodge your complaints against the company.

• Posted by: terrarocks on November 7, 2007 11:45 AM

Stop complaining, EB ARE THE BEST BY FAR!!!

• Posted by: Rathbone on November 7, 2007 12:31 PM

Dungeon Crawl in Melbourne is definitely the best bet for me when it comes to games.

As for EB, I'm tired of the rude staff, lack of service and of being told upon a pre-order pickup that the special bonus "ran out" or grumbling because they have to go out the back and get it. What the - ?

Just as a related matter, it's not just the game industry that doesn't seem to be catching up with the surge in the dollar. What about the prices of comics, imported toys and apparel? A few places I'll decline to mention are still selling their merchandise at twice the price of the US dollar equivalent. That's where online comes in! ^_^

• Posted by: kitty kablammo on November 7, 2007 1:38 PM

To all those having a bone with pricing. Here something to ponder about.

- Games, are media materials, and as such, are subject to classification. Distributors CAN NOT randomly bring games from US and sell, unless it has been clear by the office of classification.. etc. If they just import the game themselves, yes, it will be cheaper BUT it will be illegal for them to sell. Therefore, it is the publishers (EA, Vivendi, Valve...) that will have to clear media classification before they can distribute their games to distributors who then distribute to retailers. Selling a game without classification will get you a VERY BIG FINE.

- Import consoles from overseas. Yes, it will save you lots of money. BUT if your console broken, good luck getting a warranty repair. And in case of the 360 with its 3 flashing red lights (that forced MS to increase their warranty to 3 yrs), those who import it from overseas are luck out if their consoles gone brick.

- Exchange rate and such make no difference to distributors and retailers. The pricing WAS SET BY THE PUBLISHERS, and profit margin for distributors and retailers are in the range of 20%. That mean, the $100 game you just bought, $80 of it will go to EA, $10 go to the distributors, $10 go to the retailers.

Don't believe it? Go and try to run a game shop yourselves.

Cheers.

• Posted by: windies on November 7, 2007 2:13 PM

And to those people who call around then get a pricematch from EB, get a grip! Why do you reward EB with the sale? EB always have the highest price. They relied on YOU to look for a cheaper price THEN they'll match it. Instead, you should buy it at the place that offer you the cheap price to support them, for they have their price lower and not EB with their high price.

• Posted by: windies on November 7, 2007 2:22 PM

In addition to importing games, anyone had any experience importing a console?
I am deciding whether to buy a PS3 from playasia - much cheaper than here in Aus. I assume that I will only be able to play Japanese Blu-Rays?
Will the PSN still work with an imported machine and will downloaded firmware updates work?
All Ps3 games are region free are they not?
Any other good alternatives you guys have seen for buying a PS3?

• Posted by: DessieB on November 7, 2007 2:31 PM

What really sucks is the retailers taking advantage of the disparity with overseas prices and selling gmaes that are yet to be released here (eg Ratchet and Clank) which they have obviously purchased online (available for around $75), and selling in store at inflated prices (ie $119).

• Posted by: THOMO on November 7, 2007 3:00 PM

What stores are doing this? If its a little retiler, then I personaly dont see a problem with (Although the law might say otherwise) because they have gone the the trubble of ordering it in, and then they are trying to make a profit. If you want to wait for the, and get it at the $89 that JB sell it for, then you can choose to ignore them.

Now on the other hand, if it was a big retailer, I would have a problem with it.

• Posted by: sid on November 7, 2007 3:20 PM

@ terrarocks
>>

Not true - you live somewhere with internet access, therefore you have eBay. You will normally get fairly recent releases for $40-$60 and older titles for as low as $15.

• Posted by: kivv on November 7, 2007 4:53 PM