AAFES opens GameStop

  • Published
  • By Daniel Eddington
  • Eglin/Hurlburt AAFES Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  On a cold Oct. 30 morning, GameStop opened its newest location in the Eglin Base Exchange complex. 

GameStop is a multi-level retailer selling both new and used games, as well as accepting trade-ins of existing games, a concept not found at many other stores. Pricing for trade-ins is standardized across GameStops nationwide and, with a few clicks of a keyboard, the staff at GameStop can give the value on games, accessories or systems trade-ins.

Located between the Heritage Hall Theatre and the Base Exchange, the doors 
opened at 9 a.m. by Col. Bruce McClintock 96th Air Base Wing Commander. Colonel McClintock was amazed by the progress over the final week of construction as the empty facility took form, merchandise and shelves were brought in and today stood fully stocked and ready for business. He was the first customer for the new facility and, just in case it was a Christmas present, the details of his purchase will not be revealed.

"Another feature of our used games is a seven-day trial period ," said Store Manager Kent Huntsman. "If the game doesn't work, or if you play it and decide that you don't like it, you can bring it back in to trade for another used game at the same value."

The gaming systems that GameStop sells include, Nintendo Wii, X-Box 360, Playstation II and III, PSP and Nintendo DS. They also sell the games and accessories for those systems, as well as used games for the original X-Box and Gamecube.

Bobby Beatty a game advisor for GameStop, was happy to answer questions and brought up a few games that are coming out soon that are sure to be hot sellers this holiday season.

"Gears of War II" is coming out in early to mid-November," said Mr. Beatty. "World of Warcraft expansion: Wrath of the Lich King" is already selling well in pre-sales, as is "Call of Duty-World at War."

Mr. Beatty also said that fans of the Anime Cartoon Naruto will be glad to hear that two different games for different gaming systems are coming out soon.

When asked about any discounts Dana the Store Opening Coordinator said, "GameStop generally has a buy two, get one free sale on used games right around Grand Opening or the Holidays." 

This year's grand opening is scheduled for Nov. 7; however, the store is currently open for business. There are also three-day sales events that occur four times a year. Additionally, Game Informer Magazine has a subscription that includes the Edge Card, which gives a 10 percent bonus towards used games turn-ins and purchase of used games. Active-duty military receive a 10 percent discount on the purchase of used games or used game accessories, but that discount is not cumulative with the Edge Card.

Steve Friend, the Eglin/Hurlburt Services Business Manager, was excited to have the GameStop open at Eglin.

"AAFES and GameStop have worked well during the past year as the first GameStop opened at Fort Benning, Ga.," said Mr. Friend. "The turnout has been so well that they are expanding that store."

Dana, the Store Opening Coordinator, said that GameStop has been opening approximately three stores a week during the past three weeks and that they are expected to open twenty-five more before the end of this year.

"This is a great partnership for AAFES, GameStop and, ultimately, our customers," said Eglin/Hurlburt General Manager Ron Daugherty. "The military shopper can purchase quality products that they might not find elsewhere, receive credit back on the games they no longer are interested in and purchaseused games or equipment."