GAME, the UK video game retailer, is set to appoint administrators and close its remaining standalone stores, marking another blow to the high street. The company has filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, triggering a 10-day period during which creditors are protected while options are considered.
The final three standalone stores are expected to shut in April 2026, according to reports. GAME previously entered administration in 2012 but was rescued and continued trading under new ownership. In 2019, Sports Direct (now Frasers Group) acquired the chain for £52 million, but financial pressures have persisted.
GAME will continue to operate through around 200 concessions inside Sports Direct and House of Fraser stores. However, its physical presence has been reduced, with the Newcastle store in Eldon Square closing in 2025, though a concession remains in the Sports Direct on Northumberland Street.
The retailer has scaled back operations, laying off most head office staff in August 2024. It withdrew from the pre-owned market in early 2024, discontinued its Xbox All Access offering, and phased out its customer rewards program. The wider gaming retail sector faces challenges as consumers shift to online purchases and digital downloads.
Managing Director Nick Arran is stepping down after nine years. He told GamesIndustry.biz: 'Gaming is our core business and we will be last man standing selling physical video games. We see our place in the market as proving that there is a place for physical... But we need to be realistic. We have a business to run and the expectation is this will decline.'
