GameStop Gives Texans a New Way to Trade In Almost Anything

This has the potential to go off the rails. GameStop is turning the usual trade‑in routine on its head for one day only. On Saturday, December 6, the retailer will host its first ever Trade Anything Day, inviting customers to bring in just about anything that fits the rules in exchange for store credit. A moment of silence for the poor souls who will be working behind the counter!

It’s a major departure from the normal, game‑and‑console–focused trade‑ins the chain is known for, and it promises to be one of the strangest and most entertaining retail promos of the season.

GameStop's Trade Anything Day Rules

The official rules are surprisingly simple. Items must fit inside a 20‑inch by 20‑inch by 20‑inch box, and a customer can trade only one qualifying item per store. If the item isn’t normally accepted for trade and it’s not on GameStop’s exceptions list, it should qualify for the event. In exchange, GameStop will hand over a trade card worth five dollars, usable that day or on a future purchase.

They say no questions asked, but I kind of want to show up just to ask questions! Store associates still have discretion to refuse items, so the final verdict is up to whoever’s behind the counter.

The Items You’re Not Allowed to Traumatize Them With

Before anyone starts dragging in a haunted VHS tape, there are boundaries. No hazardous materials, no liquids, no live animals- but apparently taxidermy is fine, which feels like a trap from a fairy tale. You also can’t trade jewelry, currency, televisions, or anything “resembling body parts,” which means someone, somewhere, already tried.

You can check the full list here. 

If you’re planning to participate, definitely check GameStop’s website before rolling in with something questionable. The rules can change at any time, and the person at the counter has full veto power- which is the closest any of us will get to being judged in a medieval marketplace.

But if you’ve got something collecting dust and zero dignity to lose, this might be your once-in-a-lifetime chance to turn it into store credit.