GameStop's new pre-order strategy leaves a sour taste in the mouth

GameStop's new pre-order strategy could see entire sections of gameplay locked out for those buying at rival retailers, meaning the store chain could be involved during the game's development phase.

Retailer interest and partnerships in a game's exclusive DLC slate is one thing, but actually having control of exclusive gameplay sections embedded within the core game? Well that's what could be happen if GameStop gets its own way.

A report penned by Gamesbeat, claims that GameSpot recently met with investment firm R.W. Baird to discuss current and incoming trends within the games industry.

Baird analyst Colin Sebastian revealed that the chain is looking to become involved in the development process of new games to embed exclusive content within titles, accessible only to GameStop customers.

In an investor note, Sebastian wrote, “[GamesStop] indicated that software publishers are more enthusiastic about partnering with it. For example, by offering exclusive content on each major game release, and longer term, future models may include GameStop offering exclusive gameplay.”

When the site contacted GameSpot, spokesperson Jackie Smith confirmed Sebastian's claim as “accurate,” and added, "We are working with our [development] partners to build in a longer lead time. And we are working with them to get both physical and digital exclusives for our customers.”

What do you make of GameStop looking to embed its own content into your games? Does this cross a line or is it the way of the future?

Let us know below.

Via Kotaku.