How to Score Pre-Order Bonuses Without Paying Extra

27 November 2025

So, you've got your eye on the next big gaming release—maybe it's a new entry in that beloved series you’ve been following for years or a fresh IP that's already got the internet buzzing. Either way, that shiny pre-order bonus is calling your name. Extra gear? An exclusive skin? Access to a special mission? It’s tempting, right?

But here's the thing—dropping $60+ on a pre-order just for a little early access swag isn’t always the best move, especially with so many games launching unfinished or plagued with bugs (looking at you, Cyberpunk 2077 launch 👀). The good news? You can still snag those sweet pre-order bonuses without shelling out extra cash.

Yeah, you read that right. Let me walk you through how to play the system like a pro. Stick around, and I’ll let you in on the kind of tricks that make you feel like you’ve just pulled off a digital heist (the legal kind, don’t worry).

What Exactly Are Pre-Order Bonuses, Anyway?

Before we dive into the juicy tips, let’s break it down for the uninitiated. Pre-order bonuses are goodies that publishers throw at you to convince you to buy a game before it’s released. These can include:

- Exclusive in-game items (weapons, outfits, pets—you name it)
- Early access to the game itself (some give you a head start)
- Physical merch (posters, steelbooks, figurines)
- Digital extras like soundtracks or art books

The idea is simple: reward players for putting money down early. But that doesn't mean you have to pay early.

Why Pre-Ordering Isn’t Always Worth It

Let’s get real for a second—gaming is expensive. And pre-orders? They’re a gamble. You’re paying for something that no one has really played yet (at least not the public), based on marketing hype and a flashy trailer.

Pre-ordering because you fear missing out (FOMO) could leave you with a game that doesn’t live up to expectations, isn’t fun, or is riddled with bugs. And if you're really unlucky? You’re stuck with digital regret and can’t even refund it.

That’s why it's smart to hold onto your wallet… but still enjoy those bonuses. How? Let’s get into it.

1. Retailers and Refund Policies Are Your Best Friends

Here’s a clever trick: Pre-order a game from a retailer that lets you cancel easily.

Platforms like Amazon, Best Buy, and even some local game shops often offer pre-order bonuses but don’t charge your card until the game ships. Boom—free reservation of the bonus without the upfront cost.

Here’s What You Do:

1. Place a pre-order with a bonus included.
2. Wait until launch day or the first reviews roll in.
3. Decide if the game lives up to the hype.
4. If not? Cancel. No charge.
5. If yes? Enjoy the bonus and pay with confidence.

Remember, some retailers also let you cancel even after shipping (as long as the item remains unopened). Just read their return policies carefully.

2. Game Sharing with Friends (a.k.a. The Digital Buddy System)

Got a gaming buddy? Good. Now, make it official.

On platforms like Xbox and PlayStation, you can set up game sharing. When one person buys a game, the other can access it too. That includes digital pre-order bonuses.

So here’s the move:

- You and your friend agree to split the cost.
- One person pre-orders digitally.
- Both of you get the game and the bonuses.

It's like going Dutch on a pizza, but instead of slices, you're sharing epic loot drops.

Important Note:

Always trust your co-op pal. Game sharing involves some account access, so only team up if you know the other person won’t go rogue.

3. Use Store Credit and Rewards Points Like a Pre-Order Ninja

This one’s underrated.

If you’re smart about where you shop, you can stack up loyalty points, cashback, or digital wallet credit to “pre-order” a game without spending from your actual funds.

Check out:

- GameStop PowerUp Rewards
- Best Buy My Best Buy Points
- Amazon Store Card Cashback
- Target Circle Offers
- PlayStation Stars or Microsoft Rewards

Pro tip: redeem those points right before the pre-order launches. You’ll feel like you're spending Monopoly money, but it still nets you the bonus.

4. Look for Pre-Order Bonuses That Go Public Later

Okay, secret time: not all pre-order bonuses are truly exclusive. Publishers sometimes use the word “exclusive” the way fast food chains use “limited time only"—as a way to generate buzz, even if the item becomes available to everyone later.

Here’s what you do:

- Wait it out.
- Check forums like Reddit or gaming deal sites to see if the bonus content becomes available post-launch.
- In some cases, these bonuses are added to Deluxe Editions, DLC packs, or sell separately for a small fee later.

So, you can get the same bonus down the line without the stress—or the early investment.

5. Buy From Stores That Offer Free Bonuses Without Pre-Ordering

Yep, they exist.

Some retailers offer “while supplies last” bonuses rather than strict pre-order exclusives. That means even if you buy the game on release day or shortly after, you still get the perks.

Watch out for retailers like:

- Walmart
- Target
- GameStop (for physical copies)
- Green Man Gaming or Fanatical (for PC)

These stores occasionally bundle digital codes for skins and in-game currency with early copies instead of linking them strictly to pre-orders.

6. Wait for the Super Deluxe Gold Enhanced Turbo Edition (No, Really)

Not in a rush to play on day one? Patience can pay off big time.

Game publishers often release "Definitive" or "Complete" editions months after launch. These versions usually include:

- The base game
- All DLC
- Bonus items (sometimes the ones initially used as pre-order bait)

For the same price—or even cheaper—you get everything the early birds did, minus the risk of buying an unfinished game. It’s like showing up late to a party and still getting cake.

7. Check If Your Credit Card Offers Gaming Rewards

Okay, this one isn’t for everyone, but if you’ve got a rewards-based credit card, check if it offers cashback or bonus points for purchases on major platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, or Steam.

Some cards partner up with these platforms or online retailers, meaning your "paid pre-order" could be technically subsidized through rewards.

Pre-order with the points, cancel if needed, and walk away with the bonus and your money still cozy in your bank account.

That's some next-level savings wizardry, if you ask me.

8. Keep an Eye on Game Subscription Services

Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, EA Play, and Ubisoft+ are changing the landscape. More and more new releases (or close to launch versions) are landing directly into these services.

Sometimes, these services even include early access or bonus content for subscribers. You didn’t pre-order, but you still got the goodies.

Sure, you're paying for the subscription... but if you're already a member? It’s like finding loot in a treasure chest you already owned.

9. Follow Developers and Publishers on Social Media

This one’s simple but effective.

Game studios and publishers often hand out pre-order bonus codes via social media giveaways, promotional events, or Twitch streams. All it takes is a little bit of digital stalking—erm, following—to grab those free codes.

Bonus: join Discord communities or Reddit threads tied to the game. People sometimes give away codes they don’t plan to use. Kind internet strangers DO exist.

10. Enter Legitimate Contests and Giveaways

You’d be amazed how many YouTubers, Twitch streamers, or gaming blogs run giveaways for pre-order bonus codes, early access, and deluxe edition copies.

It takes minimal effort—usually just a follow, like, or comment—and you might walk away with the goods for zero cash.

Now, don’t go spamming every giveaway. Trust your gut and avoid shady links. Focus on creators and platforms you already follow and trust.

Wrapping It Up: You Don’t Have to Pay to Play Smart

The next time a game trailer drops and the internet collectively loses its mind, remember—you’ve got options. Pre-order bonuses might seem like locked treasure chests, but with a little effort (and some clever maneuvering), you can grab the loot without lighting your wallet on fire.

Whether it's using smart refunds, splitting with friends, or simply being patient, you’ve now got a full inventory of tricks to snag those bonuses without getting played.

Now go forth, gamer – and pre-order like a boss (or don’t, but still get the rewards 😎).