Step aside, surgeon general. There’s a new product that’s getting slapped with a warning label.
Thanks to a class-action lawsuit against the largest games retailer in the US, GameStop locations in California are now required to post a warning on used games that details limitations concerning free DLC and online subscriptions that may be otherwise advertised on the box.
The warnings must be posted on all applicable individual game boxes and must warn consumers that they may have to spend additional money on downloadable content or fees if it is a used game.
The lawsuit in question was handled by law firm Baron and Budd. They represented on behalf of customers that bought a used game which advertised the inclusion of free DLC.
The problem is that offer was only valid to people who bought a new copy of the game, something that wouldn’t readily be apparent to consumers who see nothing more than a different price tag on the used versus the new version. The settlement includes the mandatory warning labels as well as a financial kickback to anyone who purchased an applicable game.
According to the press release from the firm, “Consumers who purchased qualifying used games and who are enrolled in GameStop’s ‘PowerUp Rewards’ customer loyalty program can receive a $10 check and a $5 coupon.
Consumers who purchased a qualifying game, but are not members of GameStop’s loyalty program, can receive a $5 check and a $10 coupon.” The mandatory label part of the settlement will last for two years.
