Emotional & Financial Hardship: No present for my child becase GAME accepted Online Order – Item Later Declared Out of Stock

I placed an online order for my daughters Christmas gift from Game's Online Store on 22 December which was accepted and paid for in full with my bank card for R11 000. Shortly before 16:00 on the same day was I informed that the item was out of stock. I was then advised that the refund would take 7–14 working days. (I only received the refund on 5 January 2026)

As a result, R11,000 (not exactly small change) was unavailable to me at a critical time, leaving me unable to purchase a Christmas gift for my child. This caused significant distress, particularly given the timing and the expectations created by the confirmed order.

Unfortunately, this experience highlights a serious issue with online stock availability, order confirmation, and delayed communication on the part of Game. Accepting payment for goods that are not available and only notifying customers hours later creates avoidable financial and emotional harm.

This review is shared to reflect my experience and to highlight the need for stronger stock control and communication, especially during high-volume periods such as Christmas. Game I expect compensation for the agony and emotional turmoil you put my family through. You are the Grinch who stole the Christmas Spirit from us