UPDATE (11/14): Sorry gamers, GameStop is pumping the brakes on its subscription service.
"We have elected to temporarily pause the roll out of the new PowerPass subscription service, based on a few program limitations we have identified," GameStop's Director of Corporate Communications, Joey Mooring, told PCMag in an email. "We feel this is the right thing to do for now to ensure we are able to provide our guests an exceptional service."
PowerPass was slated to launch on Nov. 19, though Mooring's statement indicates that some people have already purchased the service. If you're one of those individuals, you can return to GameStop with the pass and video game you have checked out, and the company will give you a full refund. As a peace offering, affected customers will also get to pick out any pre-owned game for free.
At this point, the company does not have a timeline for moving forward with the program in the future.
Original Story (10/30)
Heads up, holiday shoppers: GameStop is launching an unlimited game subscription service you (or the gamer on your list) might enjoy.
As Game Rant first reported, the service, dubbed PowerPass, is slated to launch on Nov. 19 and will cost $60 for six months. The subscription's existence was confirmed by GameStop Director of Corporate Communications, Joey D. Mooring, in an email to PCMag.
At $60 upfront for six months of access, that breaks down to $10 a month for "unlimited gaming" privileges. Subscribers "can choose from any pre-owned video game in our catalog, from the throwback classics to the latest hits," Mooring said.
As a PowerPass member, you'll only be able to check out one pre-owned game at a time, but can swap it for a new one as often as you like. At the end of the six months, you can choose one game to keep.
Launching just in time for the holidays, the service can be given as a gift, or purchased to enjoy yourself. Customers will be able to purchase a PowerPass subscription online, but the recipient will need to visit a GameStop store to activate their subscription as well as pick out and return games.
This is only a six-month program, meaning when it's over you won't be able to subscribe again. Clearly this is something GameStop is trying for the holidays. The six months begin when you activate your subscription.
Mooring explained that you'll need to be a PowerUp Rewards member to subscribe to PowerPass so it can keep a record of the pre-owned games you check in and out. The company's PowerUp program offers points for every dollar you spend, plus special deals each month and for your birthday. It's free to join, though GameStop has "Pro" and "Elite Pro" tiers, priced at $14.99 and $29.99 a year, respectively, offering additional perks.