I feel your pain old boy
Where to spend your money in Sheffield is difficult to decide at the best of times. But if you’re parting with your hard earned cash (or loan) on games, where the devil is the best place in town to get them?
Gamestation – 01142728952
Located in the Moor, Gamestation is a haven for gamers. Whether its a Mega-Drive, neo-geo pocket or Xbox 360, Gamestation has it all. Brand new games sit aside shelves of pre-owned titles all at bargain prices, often with bundle offers on. Every conceivable console game seems to have been crammed into the shop – ancient classics such as Shinobi for the Mega-Drive can be picked up for peanuts. Not only games, but they have a good selection of DVD’s and game related stuff like T-Shirts, remote controlled Mario Karts, and X-Men headknockers. Nice.
Like a ship is useless without a crew, a games shop seems pointless without knowledgeable, friendly staff. Just as well that Gamestation employ the most helpful, passionate staff then isn’t it? They all seem to have played the latest titles and are willing to give a totally impartial viewpoint which reminds you that they’re gamers too and aren’t just interested in taking your hard-earned cash from your pocket.
Gamestation also operates an excellent “Played it? Trade it” scheme where old games can be traded in against the cost of new titles or, even better, for cold hard cash. I’ve heard of trading in old games, but never for actual cash. Lets not be unrealistic however, if you try to trade in old Gameboy titles, you’re not going to be swimming in cash, but if you’re expecting that then clearly you should’ve been listening in a Business Studies class.
If you’re looking for bargain web prices, check www.gamestation.co.uk
Playtime Multimedia – 01142723723
You’d be forgiven for walking past this beauty – I was there last week and there wasn’t a sign above the door. However perhaps it’s my own fault as the huge World of Warcraft posters and PS3 pre-order signs should’ve led me to believe that this was a game shop.
It’s a similar layout to Gamestation, but they seem to have one up on them. I went in and checked out out the Nintendo DS section and saw Final Fantasy III. I had to double-take as this isn’t in this country for at least another month. Again, Hotel Dusk – Room 215, has at least another month until release. Turns out that Playtime import a selection of most-wanted games from America, giving gamers a much wider selection and a chance to play the most anticipated titles first. However this privilege comes at a cost. Expect to pay around £35 for the previously mentioned titles. Not bad though considering that you can get games that we Brits have to wait months and months for over the Americans.
Playtime frequently have bundle deals on games and some of the most competitive prices in town. Similar to Game, they operate a reward card scheme. Use this in store and once you reach 500 points (£1 = 10 points) then you’re sent a code to claim your money back on the net. Nice to know that a shop values your loyalty eh?
Check them out on the web at www.playtimeanytime.com
Game Stores LTD – 01142755937
Situated around the main shops in Fargate is a staple shop of the gaming industry, the aptly titled: Game. Now, personally, they aren’t my cup of tea. Back in the day, any game you bought there was returnable within 10 days for whatever reason – it was too short or it was just plain rubbish. However, due to some mischievous folk buying PC games, burning and returning them, they stopped such a policy regarding PC games. This is understandable, but it was around this time that I noticed far more competitive computer game shops around. Game, at the latter part of 2005 had one single shelf “dedicated” to the Gamecube. I understand supply and demand and all that, but it’s such a shame to see old classics like Windwaker, Metroid Prime and Eternal Darkness, be banished in favour of newer titles. Again, this is understandable as only a minority or the public are going to want to opt for older titles in the current tsunami of new consoles we’re faced with, but as they say, variety is the spice of life. If you’re looking for the most up to date titles and a decent chart run down of what’s hot at the moment, Game is the shop for you. They offer a trade in scheme, but it’s just for money against titles you’re going to buy there and then. Also there’s a loyalty card scheme; the odd £2.50 knocked off here and there can’t be ignored. Not the best prices and package deals on consoles in Sheffield, but like I said, if you want up to date kit, check out Game.
Some amazing “deals of the week” can be found at www.game.co.uk however. Definitely worth a look.
Ross Price
