Walmart Video Game Return Policy In 2022 [UPDATED!]

Walmart offers a flexible video game return policy with options for exchanges and refunds. But the fine print contains some key details shoppers need to know before purchasing games. This article provides an in-depth look at Walmart‘s latest return policies in 2022 for opened, unopened, defective, and online video game purchases.

Overview of Walmart‘s General Return Policy

While return policies can vary by product category, Walmart accepts returns on most items within 90 days of purchase with a receipt. Per Walmart‘s website, some product exceptions include:

• Cell phones: 15 day return period
• Major appliances: 90 days for refunds, 14 days for exchanges
• TVs and projectors: 180 day return window

Walmart may accept returns without a receipt but will store customer identification in a secure database, per their FAQ.

Stats on Walmart‘s Return Volume

To understand why Walmart enforces stricter policies for certain products, it helps to look at the return volume processed by the retailer annually:

• Walmart processes $14 billion in returns each year, as reported by Marketplace Pulse.
• An estimated 10% of products purchased at Walmart are returned, higher than the average 8% retail return rate, according to NRF.
• Top return categories include clothing, electronics, home goods, tools, and video games.

This massive volume of returns – especially in high-fraud categories like electronics – leads retailers like Walmart to enforce stricter return policies to prevent abuse.

Unopened Video Game Refunds

Walmart offers full refunds on unopened video games within the standard 90 day window, one of the most generous policies among major retailers.

To get a cash refund or refund to your credit card, you‘ll need to provide the original receipt. If you lost your receipt, Walmart can lookup past purchases by scanning your ID or checking your Walmart.com account.

Be sure to keep all codes, manuals, and downloaded content sealed within the original packaging to qualify for this refund policy.

Exchanging Opened Video Games

Once you open a video game package, Walmart will only allow an identical exchange for the same game title and console platform. For example:

• Open PS4 Madden 2023 -> Exchange for PS4 Madden 2023
• Open Nintendo Switch Mario Kart -> Exchange for Nintendo Switch Mario Kart

No refunds are given for opened video games outside of rare exceptions approved by management. Exchanges must be completed within 90 days of original purchase date.

Why the Opened Exchange-Only Policy?

Based on Walmart‘s press releases, this strict exchanged-only policy for opened video games aims to combat return fraud patterns the company has identified, specifically:

• Customers buying video games, opening and playing them, then returning after completing. This effectively gets free game "rentals".
• Trying to return swapped out discs that were not originally purchased.
• Returns missing original manuals, codes, or parts.

Returning Defective Games

What if an opened video game is defective and doesn‘t work properly? In this case, Walmart still only allows an identical exchange – no refunds are issued even for defective items.

Unopened but defective games can be returned for full refunds within 90 days, provided you explain the issue to customer service. They may ask you to describe the problem before approving an exception.

How to Return In-Store Purchases

For any items bought at Walmart stores, simply bring the product and receipt to any Walmart customer service desk within 90 days. Exchanges for identical video games can be processed on the spot.

Refunds for unopened items may take 3-5 additional business days to process depending on original payment method. Walmart will review in-store surveillance to prevent return fraud for high-value items.

Returning Walmart.com Orders

To return video games purchased online at Walmart.com, first login to your Walmart.com account and visit Purchase History. Select the item for return and print out a free return shipping label.

For exchanges, choose the replacement video game title before printing. Affix the label to any box or envelope and drop off at a UPS location.

In-store returns are also accepted for online orders. Bring either the packing slip or lookup order details on your Walmart account.

Tips for Easy Video Game Returns

To avoid issues when returning video games to Walmart, keep these tips in mind:

• Save original receipts or use Walmart account to lookup order
• Open packages carefully in case an exchange is needed
• Return early within 90 days, don‘t wait until the last day
• Inspect discs right away and test games quickly
• Keep all original codes, paperwork, and packaging
• Stay polite and patient with customer service staff

By understanding the exceptions and fine print around Walmart‘s video game return policies, shoppers can buy with confidence this holiday season knowing exchanges or refunds are available if needed. Just make sure to read the policy details carefully for opened vs unopened video game returns.