Why Some Pre-Orders Are Rising in Price — and What to Do About It

25 May 2025

Picture this: You’re scrolling through your favorite gaming store, and there it is — the pre-order for that highly anticipated game you’ve been waiting months for. The trailer blew your mind, and the hype is real. You’re about to drop that preorder into your cart when you notice something strange. The price? It’s higher than what you remember it being a few weeks ago. What gives?

If you’ve found yourself staring at your screen with raised eyebrows, you’re not alone. Lately, gamers have been noticing an odd trend — pre-order prices for certain games are creeping up. But why is this happening? And more importantly, what can you do about it without blowing your budget? Let’s dive in and break it down step by step.

The Unpleasant Truth About Rising Pre-Order Prices

First things first, let’s get one thing straight: no one likes higher prices. It doesn’t matter if it’s a game, a concert ticket, or even your morning coffee. When things cost more, it stings. But when it comes to pre-orders, the price hikes can feel especially frustrating. After all, pre-ordering was supposed to give you an edge — a chance to lock in your purchase early and score some sweet bonuses. So, why are some games nudging their prices higher before they even hit the shelves?

1. Inflation Is Hitting Everything — Yes, Even Games

Here’s the harsh reality: inflation doesn’t discriminate. While it’s easy to see rising costs in everyday items like groceries and gasoline, the gaming industry is not immune. Development costs are skyrocketing as studios tackle more complex game mechanics, deliver stunning visuals, and create massive open worlds. It’s not just about making a game — it’s about making a blockbuster. That kind of ambition takes serious cash.

When publishers face higher development expenses, marketing fees, and increased distribution costs, guess what gets passed down to the player? Yep, you guessed it: that extra $10 or $20 tacked onto your pre-order price.

2. Supply and Demand Are Playing Mind Games

Ever notice how some of the most hyped games are the ones with fluctuating prices? That’s not a coincidence. Publishers are keenly aware of a game’s demand. If the fanbase is rabid with excitement and social media buzz is through the roof, some publishers will test the waters by adjusting prices.

It’s kind of like concert tickets. If people are clamoring to see their favorite band, ticket prices soar. Pre-orders work the same way. Publishers know that many gamers are willing to fork over a few extra bucks if it means landing that special edition or getting early access.

3. Regional Pricing and Currency Fluctuations

This one’s for the international gamers out there. Have you ever noticed how prices differ depending on where you live? That’s not by accident. Publishers often adjust prices based on the region’s economy, taxes, and currency exchange rates.

But here’s the kicker: these adjustments aren’t always accurate. Sometimes, what starts as a minor price tweak snowballs into a full-blown price hike. Depending on currency fluctuations and regional tax changes, that pre-order you thought was affordable may suddenly feel out of reach.

4. The "Deluxe Edition" Trap

We all love a bit of extra content. Fancy art books, exclusive skins, soundtracks — these bonuses can make a deluxe or collector’s edition pre-order feel like a treasure trove. But here’s the sneaky part. Publishers love bundling these extras into pricier packages, making them the default pre-order option.

What happens next? Regular editions quietly disappear or become harder to find. Suddenly, the only way to pre-order is by spending more. It’s a classic case of FOMO (fear of missing out) in action.

So, What Can You Do About It?

Alright, now that we’ve uncovered why pre-orders are rising in price, let’s talk solutions. Spoiler: You don’t have to sit back and accept the hike like it’s a final boss you can’t beat. There are ways to navigate this without emptying your wallet.

1. Wait It Out — Patience Can Pay Off

Let’s be honest — not every pre-order is worth the instant buy. Sure, some games come with exclusive bonuses, but many of these extras are purely cosmetic and won’t affect your gaming experience. Pre-order prices often normalize closer to launch day, so if you’re not in a rush, waiting could save you money.

And let’s not forget about sales! Once the launch hype dies down, the price will more than likely drop during seasonal sales.

2. Shop Around for Better Deals

This might sound like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people skip this step. Not all retailers price their pre-orders the same way. Some online stores, like Amazon or specialized gaming retailers, offer price guarantees, meaning you’ll pay the lowest price if it drops before launch.

Don’t forget to check out regional stores too. Depending on where you live, importing a game might actually be cheaper, even with shipping fees.

3. Take Advantage of Membership Discounts

Are you a member of a gaming rewards program? If not, you might be missing out. Platforms like Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Plus often offer pre-order discounts and perks for their subscribers.

Even physical stores like GameStop or Best Buy have loyalty programs that reward members with special discounts or points that you can accumulate for future purchases.

4. Stick to Standard Editions

Let’s be real for a second. Do you really need that collector’s edition with the 10-inch statue and limited-edition pin? Don’t get me wrong — they’re cool, but they’re also a major reason pre-order prices are climbing.

By opting for the standard edition, you’ll save a ton of money. And if you ever change your mind, those bonus items or DLCs will likely be available separately down the line.

5. Keep an Eye on Regional Prices

Thanks to the magic of the internet, comparing prices across regions is easier than ever. Websites like IsThereAnyDeal or XE Currency Converter can help you determine if buying from another region might save you cash.

Just be mindful of regional restrictions and taxes. Sometimes that deal might not be as sweet as it seems once extra fees kick in.

6. Vote With Your Wallet

At the end of the day, the best way to combat rising pre-order prices is to speak with your money. Publishers are businesses, and if they see players refusing to pay inflated prices, they might rethink their strategies.

Sure, it’s tempting to snag a game the second it’s available, but if enough of us resist, we can collectively send a message. After all, they can’t sell what we aren’t willing to buy.

Final Thoughts

Rising pre-order prices can feel like another frustrating hurdle in the gaming world. But with a little patience, research, and willpower, you can avoid the trap of overpaying. Remember, gaming is supposed to be fun. Spending unnecessary cash on inflated pre-orders? Not so much.

Instead of letting higher prices spoil your excitement, arm yourself with these tips and make the choice that’s best for you. After all, the power is in your hands — literally.