10 Manipulative Gaming Tactics You Fall For Every Time

Oh, the all-powerful pre-order, how you've been tricking us continuously and effectively for years. Why are we pre-ordering games? To secure a copy? It's not like they're in limited quantities, like consoles, and with digital storefronts, we can always get a digital version. It's those sweet bonuses that come with the pre-order that blinds us.

Usually, the pre-order bonus is not something special: an in-game skin or weapon, early access, or a bonus mission to name a few. When you pre-order in stores, you are more likely to get something physical, like a keychain or a steelbook. This all seems so harmless, so why are we always going to fall for this?

It's a simple phrase: "pre-order now to get exclusive access." That word, exclusive, does something in our heads. It makes us believe that if we do not pre-order, we will never have access to it, although most "exclusive" content can either be unlocked in-game later or is available for purchase months after release. What about when you get so hyped you pre-order a game, only to be disappointed that it's not as good as you had hoped upon release?

Pre-ordering makes you feel justified, showing the company that you are loyal when all they want is your money.