Blizzard offers refunds on GAME Australia Diablo III pre-orders

Those whose Diablo III pre-orders have fallen through thanks to GAME Australia's stock issues can apply for a refund from Blizzard.

Blizzard has advised disappointed gamers to purchase a digital copy of Diablo III directly through Battle.net and then submit proof of a GAME Australia purchase by the end of June to receive a refund.

More information on how to take advantage of the offer will be released soon.

Not everyone who pre-ordered will need to take advantage of the scheme; Pricewaterhouse Coopers has advised the beleaguered retail chain will fulfill Diablo III pre-orders where possible, but cannot afford stock to meet demand completely.

"I regret that Diablo III isn't available across the whole network of stores and to all customers who have pre-ordered," joint administrator Kate Warwick said in a statement.

"However the stock on hand represents the total stock ordered prior to the appointment of Voluntary Administrators yesterday and unfortunately, there are insufficient funds on hand to purchase any additional copies."

The administrators have reiterated that users who ordered in-store should check if stock has been allocated to them. Those who miss out are asked to visit GAME's website to make a claim for refund - although under Australian laws, not all debitors are ensured compensation.

It is unclear how those who ordered through the website will be affected; yesterday, GAME advised that online orders would be fulfilled.

Diablo III is available now, for Mac and PC.