The
Inside Story on the Process of Renting Video Games
Avid
video games players are no strangers to renting video games. A trip to
the video rental store used to be the only way to do this. Nowadays,
you can rent movies online. The process, for the most part, is the
same; only now you can rent just about any game you want without ever
leaving your home!
Where
Do I Go To Rent Games Online?
Luckily,
there is a large market (and demand) for video game rentals. With the
increasing popularity of the service, there are now a handful of
large-scale game rental companies to choose from. Although there are
many others, Gamerang
, Gamefly
, and Gottaplay
are the most commonly known (in America ). All three of these companies
boast over three thousand titles to choose from, and all three deliver
the games right to your door in just a day or two. These three
companies are well established, providing previews, codes, and even
game trailers on their site. Combined with their reputations for
excellent service, you just can't go wrong!
How
Much Does It Cost To Rent Games?
One
might believe that today's video game enthusiasts are all about the
latest, greatest, hottest titles. While this is true to some extent,
many video game lovers are also fans of the "old school" games. As most
companies realize this, you can find games for nearly every gaming
platform. Online game rental plans typically range from $12.95 - $24.95
per month. Rates vary based on the amount of games you'd like to rent
at one time.
When
the companies send out your video games, you will often receive them
within 1-2 business days. The games will usually arrive in an envelope,
with cardboard cutouts on either side of the game for protection. You
simply play the games as much as you'd like, then return them in the
envelope provided by the rental company. The cost of postage is
typically already taken care of on the return envelope. This means your
monthly fee covers all of your postage and handling.
Sneaky
Fees & Late Fees Are No Longer A Concern
Online
rental companies tend to not charge a "late fee" on their rentals.
Instead, you are invited to keep the game for as long as you'd like.
You just have to keep paying the monthly membership fee, and you won't
be allowed to rent any more games until you turn at least one back in.
Most online game rental providers give you the option to purchase any
game you rent from them at a price lower than the MSRP. The lower price
is often called the "pre-played price".
Before
you can rent games online, however, you'll need to register with one of
the online game rental providers. Do your research before choosing who
you'll go through. Many of these companies are happy to offer you a
free initial trial period. This allows you to test out their services
before handing over any money.
How
Long Do I Have To Wait For My Game?
Each
online game rental company has its own unique policy on shipping
methods, timeframes, and what to do in case of any problems. The most
common time frame you'll find is 1-3 business days from the time you
place the games in your queue. These companies have multiple sites
throughout the US , which allows for fast delivery to nearly any
location nationwide. If for some reason your game never arrives, or
arrives scratched, broken, or otherwise unplayable, be sure to check
your provider's website for information on how to report the problem.
Most companies will do everything in their power to remedy the problem
right away.