BestBuy and Target want your used games!

[theuserjohnny]

Target announced this yesterday.

Another major retail chain wants your used videogames.

Target today announced it will soon allow customers to trade in a number of electronic devices, including new or used iPhones, iPods, cell phones and videogames, to receive in-store credit that can be used towards other purchases.

The company noted this new program "encourages guests to be eco-friendly," implying the electronics will be recycled and not resold. We contacted Target to get clarification.

It will launch in Northern California on August 24 with additional stores joining the program in September, and will be available in approximately 850 stores by the end of the year.

Target joins retailers GameStop, Best Buy, and Walmart as a destination to sell back used videogames. GameStop said on its latest earnings call that while the company is taking this new competition seriously, it has yet to see an impact on sales.

BestBuy then followed with today's statement.

Responding to yesterday's news that Target would soon allow customers to trade in used videogames for credit at their store, rival retailer Best Buy today announced its own trade-in program is going nationwide later this week.

The program will start in roughly 600 Best Buy stores across the country with additional stores being added soon after.

"The expansion of our trade-in program reaffirms our commitment to consistently pursue new ways to bring a better gaming experience to consumers," said Best Buy's Chris Homeister, senior vice president and general managers.

"Fall marks the launch of several highly-anticipated gaming titles and new technology, and we're thrilled to provide gamers with innovative ways to connect with the games they love."

As a special offer beginning Sunday, August 29, customers who trade in games will receive a $20 Best Buy Gift Card as part of a promotion.

Best Buy says in-store credit can be used to purchase anything at the store, and stores will soon begin selling pre-owned titles as well.

Correction: Best Buy says the announcement has been corrected saying the promotion is for a $20 gift card only. It will not be on top of the trade-in value.

Article to both:

http://ps3.ign.com/articles/111/1116071p1.html

http://ps3.ign.com/articles/111/1116199p1.html