GameStop is selling hit AAA games for as little as $15 mainly to clear out aging or overstocked inventory—think of it as a gamer’s yard sale, except with more explosions. The retailer wants to tempt collectors and bargain hunters back to physical discs, using deep markdowns to move piles of games gathering dust. Inventory varies by location, so luck (and fast clicking) helps. Does this all-out sale tease a return to “old-school” gaming? There’s a bit more to unpack on that front.
While gamers are usually bracing for sticker shock when browsing for new releases, GameStop is flipping the script this May with a sale that’s hard to ignore: hundreds of PS5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch games, including big-name AAA titles, are now marked down to just $15 or $30.
Considering that some of these games—like Dead Island 2: Hell-A Edition—originally retailed for as much as $100, it’s no surprise that shelves are clearing fast. It’s the kind of fire sale that makes you wonder if someone accidentally misplaced a decimal point in the pricing database.
But there’s no mistake here. GameStop is going big with one of its largest annual sales, aiming to clear out old or surplus inventory and, perhaps, remind everyone that physical media still has a pulse. The growth of user-generated content in gaming is influencing retailers like GameStop to highlight the value of physical collectibles alongside digital trends.
Collectors and deal hunters get the double bonus: not only discounted games, but also Amiibo and other physical collectibles joining the markdown parade. GameStop has restocked certain titles during the sale, offering a second chance for those who missed out on the first wave of deals.
The catch? Inventory is, unsurprisingly, limited. Demand is high, and with regional stock differences, some stores are running out of the most popular titles faster than you can say “add to cart.”
Online shoppers are advised to check availability in real-time if they want to avoid disappointment—or worse, paying full price elsewhere. In-store pickup is an option for the frugal (or impatient), sidestepping shipping costs for eligible titles.
Why these prices, though? GameStop’s strategy is as classic as Mario rescuing Peach: deep discounts move slow stock, boost traffic, and generate buzz.
The sale includes both bestsellers and less-hyped games, so even if you missed a few launches last year, there’s a strong chance you’ll find something tempting.
Of course, some games—especially limited editions or bundles—are already gone. Not every title gets the magic $15 sticker, and DLC may be missing.
Still, with free shipping on orders over $79, there’s incentive to bundle up.
In an industry where digital storefronts are eating retail’s lunch, GameStop’s aggressive pricing stands out, at least for now.
Whether you’re a collector, a backlog-builder, or just like a good bargain, it’s worth a look.