Games-retail powerhouse GameStop has been talking about possibly starting a customer loyalty program involving their Edge card.

There would be two programs, one for everyone, and one “that can only be earned by frequent use of the basic card.”

Joystiq contacted GameStop regarding this program and their response was:

GameStop updated later in the day that they would be launching a rewards program in “four markets” this May. Those markets have yet to be determined and can range from single states, cities, or an entire region.

“We are in the process of evaluating loyalty opportunities for our customers. As this is a work in progress, we are not going to comment on speculation to changes to our Edge card program.”

Joystiq asked GameStop CEO, J. Paul Raines, what the rewards program would consist of and he gave a few details:

The program is based on a French based GameStop owned franchise called MicroMania who have their own rewards card called the “Megacard”.

“…It won’t be purely a markdown program that gives you discounts once you reach a certain threshold, it will also have unique rewards like tickets to shows and early entrance to midnight launch, etc.”

While I’m not an Edge card user, for those who do use the card with a heavy emphasis on buying used games, this could be a worthwhile investment when GameStop implements the program.

Though, I’m not entirely sold on the kinds of rewards that will be provided. In addition to the regular markdown you receive from using your Edge card when you purchase a used game, it sounds like a “buy ten games, get one for 50% off” kind of program. Not something I’m entirely excited for.

In addition to the internal changes, it’s also been rumored that a private equity group is considering buying out GameStop for a cool $4.94 billion, GameStop’s company worth is about $3.27 billion. GameStop has no comment on the matter, but should the buyout be real, it could mean GameStop would no longer be a publicly traded company and managerial duties would be shifted around - which could also alter any potential customer loyalty programs.

Personally, I don’t really care where I buy my games. Does GameStop make it a bit easier? A little bit, but I wouldn’t be broken hearted if the company had a significant change up - should the buyout turn out to be real. As far as the customer loyalty program, as I said earlier, I don’t use their Edge program enough for it to have an impact on my purchasing habits.

If it’s a good program, GameStop could definitely see an increase in business from customers using the program. Time will tell.

Do you have an Edge card? What perks would you like to see added to the card?

Source: Joystiq