Let's cut right to the chase; GAME Australia has gone into administration. External sources are now running the show and the company is at their mercy as it is liquidated and likely enters bankruptcy.
But it gets worse—for the gamers, at least. Virtually every GAME store in Australia won't be stocking Diablo III which not only launches this week but has one of the highest pre-order counts in video game history. Customers who pre-ordered a standard or collector's edition copy through the retailer are being sent the following notice through e-mail:
Due to the appointment of an administrator to our business this morning, it is with regret that I inform you all that our stores will not be receiving any stock of diablo 3. Because of this, we regrettably will be unable to fulfill any pre-orders. Also, we will be unable to refund any deposits paid towards a pre-order of diablo 3. If you need any more info, please email customerrelations@game.com.au
Not only have thousands of Australian gamers lost their pre-order of a highly-demanded game, but they've been robbed of their initial deposit of around $10.00. Unfortunately, this move is legal under Australian law. Companies who are claimed by administration in the same manner as GAME has aren't obligated to fulfill refund requests. As such, there's a lot of tough luck going around.
If you've been affected by this and you pre-ordered with a credit card, call your credit card company ASAP and file a claim stating you didn't receive your product. A chargeback should occur and you'll win this battle. However, if you pre-ordered with cash then your only course of action is a class-action lawsuit, and there's no telling if that'll be successful.
RIP GAME Australia and good luck to the thousands who are now riding crocodiles around looking for a new place to buy the game.
