There’s some awkward news coming for those who use media rental kiosks by Redbox to rent games and movies. It turns out that the company is axing one element of the rental and sales element of their business model. Redbox will no longer offer sales or rental of video games via their kiosks by the middle of 2020. The company didn’t provide a specific reason for the move, but more than likely it has to do with more consumers purchasing digital versions of games.
The service ending was confirmed on Twitter. A customer asked Redbox’s main account about certain titles not being available at kiosks, to which they responded. “Games will continue to be available for purchase at the Box until early next year but we’re no longer making them available to rent,” says a Redbox representative via social media.
https://twitter.com/redboxcare/status/1203730712194670592?s=20
The company will be phasing out the games side of their business to focus on films instead, opting to more directly compete with the likes of Netflix. As they put it, “permanently transitioning out of the games business” to focus on its streaming service and movie rentals instead.”
If you’re still looking for a replacement, there’s still some options left for you to explore. Though Redbox is moving out of games rental and sales, there’s always GameFly as an option. That service also has an option to test games via limited-time trials if that’s something you need.
If you do have a Redbox near you that offered games, you might be able to get a good deal on some games. Check the Redbox website for kiosks, as the tracker can also let you preview stocks for games, as well as prices. You might be able to snap up some discounts on AAA games if you’re really lucky.
Source: The Verge
