Video Games can be purchased from Walmart in-store and online; the return process is relatively simple but can differ depending on how you bought the game and whether it was sold by Walmart or by a marketplace seller.
The policy can be stricter with video games as opposed to other items like food, clothing, and TVs. It’s possible to open, play, and return a game or even copy it. So it’s best to pick the right game and double-check before opening it.
You can view Walmart’s full return policy and contact their support; however, below is all the information required for returning video games to Walmart.
Can You Return Video Games to Walmart?
You can return any video games to Walmart purchased in-store or online. You have 90 days for Walmart items and 30-90 days for marketplace items. Full refunds are available on unopened video games. If the item is opened, you can exchange it for the same video game on the same console.
Full refunds are only available for unopened video games with an original receipt, and they will be returned to your original payment method.
Video games purchases in-store including clearance items can only be returned in-store, while online purchases can be returned in-store and via mail.
Items purchased directly from Walmart have a 90-day return policy, while marketplace items sold online have a variable return policy of 30-90 days, but most are 30 days.
How to Return Video Games at Walmart
To return video games purchased in-store, you must return them to a store; they prefer you to start the return process online, but you can still bring the item, all packaging, and your receipt to the Walmart customer service desk.
If you have a Walmart account, start the return process by logging in, the link is here.
- Select item for return and choose return to store
- An email will be sent to you with a barcode you’ll need for return.
If you don’t have a Walmart account, start the return process here.
- Select an in-store return
- An email will be sent to you with a barcode you’ll need for return.
For both methods, you must bring the item, all original packaging, receipt, and your barcode to the store for a smoother refund.
How to Return Video Games by Mail to Walmart
You can return physical video games purchased online to the Walmart store, or return them via mail. If you have a Walmart account, start the return process by going to the purchase history and track the order.
- Select the item you’d like to return or replace and choose why you’re returning it.
- Select return by mail to get a return label you can print
- Package the item with all original packaging and parts, then drop it off at USPS or FedEx.
- Once received and confirmed, you’ll get a refund or replacement.
If you checked out as a guest, start the return process here.
- Enter the email you used and the order number from your original emailed receipt.
- You’ll then be able to follow the steps listed above to print a return label.
Can You Return Digital Games And Access Codes?
Digital downloads and access codes can not be returned; there is no refund or exchange available due to the potential of fraud.
If you didn’t receive your item, have trouble downloading, or there are any other issues, you need to request help online from Walmart here.
How Strict Is Walmart On Video Game Returns?
Because of the high potential of fraud, Walmart is very strict on its return policy for video games, and it’s often better to ensure you have the correct game for the right console before purchasing.
Walmart can deny your refund even if you have a valid receipt and return it within the return period if they believe there is fraud on your part.
They may also cancel your online account if they believe there is fraud or you have a history of returning too many video games.
Can I Return Video Games to Walmart After 90 Days?
Walmart’s return policy says you can’t return anything to Walmart after 90 days. However, you can talk to the store manager and they may accept your item for return or refund at their discretion.
You would need a valid reason for why you’re returning it so late, especially with video games that have already been opened.
Holiday Return Exceptions: Items purchased during the holiday season, which is November 1 – December 25, don’t start the return countdown until December 26.
So your 30-90 return option will start on December 26, which gives you additional time to return gifts or items you didn’t get a chance to test early enough.
Walmart Video Games Return Exceptions
In most cases, you will need to return video games unopened with a receipt within 30-90 days to receive a full refund. If that is not possible, your return options and refund methods will change.
If The Video Game Is Damaged: Video games can be returned due to damage on delivery, but you will receive the same video game for the same console.
If You Don’t Have A Receipt: You can return video games to Walmart without a receipt, but a government-issued photo ID will be required, and the return will be verified and validated.
You can look up a lost receipt online by going to the Walmart receipt finder here.
If You Don’t Have The Original Packaging: Technically you can return items to Walmart without the original packaging, though video games only come with the game and a case, so it would be strange not to have the case.
Your return could still be denied by the store manager, especially if you’re also missing the receipt.
If The Video Game Is Opened and Used: Video games that are opened whether damaged, for the wrong console, or you just changed your mind, can be exchanged for the same game on the same console.
So if you purchased and opened a video game for the wrong console by mistake, you don’t have any refund or exchange options unless you discuss directly with the store manager.
