Black Friday is nearly here, and as always, it's one of the best consumer holidays for gamers everywhere. While COVID-19 indubitably means this year's holiday is looking slightly different, there's plenty of reasons to invest in Black Friday deals, including GameStop's.
For those looking at what GameStop has to offer, for a PS5 and/or Xbox Series X for the holiday season, or are just comparing prices and dates, here's the best deals and everything hopeful consumers need to know about GameStop.
Is GameStop Having a Black Friday Sale?
Absolutely. COVID-19 may have dampened things a bit, but it's as packed with deals as ever. Here's the key dates to know:
- Black Friday Countdown Deals: November 14 - 21, in-store and online *For this event, it seems there's a new set of deals every day, so wise consumer may wish to check in.
- Black Friday Early Deals: November 22-25, in-store and online
- Black Friday: November 25, online at 8 PM CT; November 27, in-stores at 7 AM.
Is GameStop Black Friday Online
Many brick-and-mortar retailers are limiting Black Friday sales and in-store stock of the PS5 and Xbox Series X, so it's natural to question whether or not GameStop's Black Friday deals are online-only. However, as noted above, GameStop will be hosting deals in-store and online for the entirety of their run. It should be noted, however, that every remains as supplies last.
GameStop's Black Friday 2020 Ad and Video Game Deals
The heart of Black Friday gaming deals, of course, lie within the games themselves. Some of the deals this year, such as the Switch bundle with Mario Kart 8, is just a repeat of last year. Considering the popularity/release of the game, the rarity of the deal, and the actual discount of the deal, here's the best deals that player should act quick to scoop up:
- Watch Dogs Legion - $32.99 (regular price $59.99)
- NBA 2K21 - $26.99 (regular price $59.99)
- Madden NFL21 $ 26.99 (regular price $59.99)
- Persona 5 Royal Steelbook Edition $24.99 (regular price $59.99)
- Need for Speed Hot Pursuit $26.99 (regular price $39.99)
- Star Wars Squadrons $16.99 (regular price $39.99)
- Final Fantasy 7 Remake $34.99 (regular price $59.99)
- The Sims 4 Star Wars Bundle $19.99 (regular price $39.99)
- Catherine Full Body on Switch $24.99 (regular price $49.99)
- The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening $39.99
- Super Mario Maker 2 $39.99
- Luigi's Mansion 3 $39.99
NOTE: Many of these deals will not go live until either November 22, November 25, or November 27.
PlayStation fans should also keep their eyes on several PlayStation Hits. While some of these may be available via the PS Plus Collection, games like The Last of Us Remastered, Death Stranding, Days Gone, Persona 5, and more are discounted by up to 50% of their regular retail value.
Furthermore, GameStop is also hosting a couple of Buy X Get X free deals that consumers should keep an eye on. For PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, DS, PS Vita, and Wii U games, GameStop will be hosting a Buy 2 Get 2 free deal. That becomes a Buy 2 Get 1 free deal on more modern platforms, such as PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and 3DS games. Readers should also note that this is as advertised in GameStop's Black Friday Ad. More details may become available by Black Friday, while others may be changed.
Black Friday 2020: The PS5, Xbox Series X
If not looking to invest in some new games cheap, there's a solid likelihood that many are still attempting to get their hands on next-gen consoles. Between the limited supply, online scalpers, and more, obtaining a PS5 or Xbox Series X at launch has been rather complicated. For those still looking, it should be noted that GameStop will have limited quantities available on Black Friday.
Dubbed the PS5, Xbox Series X Black Friday Special, GameStop states that "all stores will have a minimum of two PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X consoles at store opening. Limit one total console per customer. In stores while they last." There should be some things to note based on this language: it seems unlikely that GameStop will have PS5 digital editions or Xbox Series S consoles based on this minimum requirement. Consumers cannot pick up both a PS5 and an Xbox Series X as part of this promotion, and due to the limited qualities, fans can likely expect them to be gone at opening.
It is not suggested that fans try to get there early to obtain the console, and when/if traveling to a store, it is best to wear a mask and practice social distancing.
Other Black Friday Tech Deals
Beyond consoles and games themselves, there will be plenty of tech and accessories available at GameStop. Once again, considering the popularity/need of the tech or accessory, the rarity of the deal, and the price discount, here's the best tech and accessories as advertised by GameStop:
- 1-Year PS Plus Membership $44.99 (regular price $59.99)
- Xbox Game Pass 3- Month Subscription $19.99 (regular price $44.99) *Physical Cards Only.
- Pre-Owned PS4 and Xbox One Controllers $29.99 each
- Astro A40 TR Gaming Headset $119.99 (regular price $149.99)
- Razer Kraken Headsets (Kraken X $34.99) (Kitty Edition $99.99) (Quartz $49.99)
- Razer Viper Mice (Basilisk X $39.99) (Standard Viper $39.99) (Viper Ultimate Wireless $139.99)
- The HyperX Edge: (HyperX Pulsefire FPS Pro mouse $44.99) (HyperX Alloy Origins Mechanical Gaming Keyboard $79.99)
Overall, these deals are worth checking out for those who may have waited on some games or are in need of some new gear. Fans should make sure to keep an eye on the online dates in order to get the best deals as soon as possible, and also note that GameStop is closed Thanksgiving, the day before Black Friday.
Black Friday is officially November 27. Deals and more may go live on or before that date.