There are many things that threaten GameStop's bottom-line. The rise of smartphone gaming, propelled to the forefront of gaming via the iPhone, has to be at the top of that list.
But you know what they say, about one's enemy's enemy being your friend? Which might be the reasoning behind GameStop's decision to sell Amazon's Kindle Fire in their shops.
The Kindle Fire HD 7 is what is being offered at most locations, for $199.99 and at 4,4000 US stories. The 8.9-inch version, along with the non-HD 7-inch variant, is also available at certain select locations.
Also, those who purchase the device will get a $25 Amazon gift card. Plus, if you trade in your original Kindle Fire, you can earn up to $100 in store credit.
According to Joe Gorman, vice president of mobile at GameStop, in a press release:
"Android tablets are topping many holiday lists, so it’s the perfect time to add Kindle Fire to GameStop’s mobile electronics selection…And with customers able to trade old video games, devices and more toward the purchase of new products, including Kindle Fire, we’re making it easier than ever for customers to get the holiday gifts they want."
As noted, the rise of iOS and Android gaming's popularity, as well digitally distributed titles period, is a risk to traditional game sellers, like GameStop. The company is trying new things to leverage the recent changes to the industry, and distributing one of its key threats might be a possible solution.
