Blockbuster To Add Video Games to TotalAccess Service, Netflix Yawns

HackingNetflix has sent word that Blockbuster will be testing video game rentals through their Netflix-variant “TotalAccess”.

Here’s the logic from the Blockbuster release.

“We already rent more video games than any other company, store-based or online, in the nation, so we know our core customer loves games as well as movies,” said Bob Barr, Vice President and General Manager of blockbuster.com. “With this pilot program, we’re laying the groundwork for offering BLOCKBUSTER Total Access customers easy online access to the movies and games they want, through an integrated subscription offering. Plus, according to their plan, they’ll continue to be able to exchange their by-mail rentals both for free in-store movies as well as half-price in-store game rentals. A combination video game and movie online offering — with in-store exchange privileges — is a tremendous value and convenience offering not available through anyone other than Blockbuster.”

HackingNetflix also notes that Netflix has not even considered video games, even advertising the similarly-organized Gamefly on their envelopes.

What do you think, Consumerists? Is this skillful move trying to outflank Netflix and overpower Gamefly, or just another misstep of a living fossil? Leave your thoughts below.

Blockbuster Testing Game Rentals With Total Access Subscription
[Hacking Netflix]
(Photo:northernplateguy)

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