Re: Stardock selling dominions
The downgrading of stores selling PC games happened years ago when the console market overtook it. What's surprising is that in 2007 you can still find *any* PC gaming on the shelf. EB Games/Gamestop had talked about for years that the only PC games they would carry in store would be ones that were also selling on consoles, but that hasn't come to pass. At the same time the in store inventory of PC games is so pathetic that it doesn't matter.
And yes, online resellers did play somewhat of a part since they could discount titles. This is why big box stores like console games, they can sell them for $59.99 and no one expects to pay less than that for them.
I can't help but think that during the transition period it was a perfect opportunity for the return of the mom 'n pop computer retailer. Back in the '80s there were plenty of folks who would have a store aimed directly at selling software, and while they would do most of their business mail order they still had a retail front. The nice thing was that the people who worked there cared about the games, and knew them. You could get an opinion on a title and expect it to be correct. Ever try talking to a Gamestop counter twit? 50% only care about the latest Xbox game, and the other 50% don't know squat about anything, they're just working there because their probation officer said they had to have a job.
I know if I had someplace local to buy games from that treated me with respect, I'd be more apt to shop there than a big box store, or the terrible experience that is Gamestop.
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