r/DDintoGME

A major partnership could be done between GameStop and Valve with the upcoming Steam Machine release. This is how I see it working, Gamestop Pro members will be able to use their Steam Wallet bi-directionally. A pro member can trade in a physical game at GameStop, and use it towards a digital asset through Steam marketplace. The member can just as easily use the digital funds trapped in their steam wallet on PowerPacks, or physical items in a GameStop store. The partnership would also include GameStop showcasing the new Steam Machine via in store demos. Valve needs a physical way to show customers (e.g., parents) what this thing is, why it’s awesome, and most importantly why it’s so much more expensive than a PlayStation (and worth it). GameStop employees can provide all of that and can also serve as tech support. Have an issue? Just bring it in.

The stage is set for a partnership like this. Microsoft and Sony have both had issues recently on the digital side. Valve sees that, and knows they need to win over the normies to make the Steam Machine the new living room console of choice (and not another flop like the first one). Using GameStop as their very own Apple Store/Genius bar is the best way they can breach this space and ensure continued dominance in digital gaming.

As for GameStop, well they just got everyone with a Steam account to become a Pro Member. These members will be introduced to PowerPacks. They’ll have a reason to go to their local GameStop and see what they can snag with their Steam wallet. They’ll also have a reason to shop GameStop first when purchasing accessories. I’m willing to bet there’s a cross-section of PC gamers who are interested in collectibles, retro tech, and trading cards. This partnership capitalizes on that relationship. It acknowledges that digital gaming is the future and cements GameStop as the bridge to the physical space.

Tin foil - eBay position was started in February. So why did they not announce earlier? Original plan was for RC comp package to be voted on end of march. What was the point of delaying all of this until May/June? Is it a coincidence that the Steam Machine has experienced an identical delay this year? When pressed in that CNBC interview on the half cash/half stock, Ryan said “yeah, we’ll see what happens”. Well imagine this happens and the market is forced to re-rate GME as a completely new thing with millions of new pro members. How high would the market cap go? 25 billion, 30 billion, 35 billion? The higher it goes, the more likely the eBay deal happens. The more likely the eBay deal happens, the higher it goes. That has never been seen before in capital markets.