GameStop Declares Itself "Essential Retail," Remains Open During Coronavirus Outbreak

GameStop, the video game retailer behind such rip-offs as an $80 trade-in for perfectly-fine PS4, has declared itself "essential retail" and will remain open during the coronavirus outbreak. The controversial move places the company in the same tier as grocery stores and pharmacies during the ongoing health crisis, making a used copy of Katamari Damacy Reroll up there with an insulin prescription.

Should law enforcement attempt to question GameStop's "essential retail" status, the company has informed employees to provide authorities with a note indicating "classified as essential retail and therefore can remain open during this time." The flier comes complete with a phone number for GameStop's corporate office, as reported by VICE.

The Twitter account @Nintendeal published a copy of the memo and the notice to the police yesterday afternoon,

The company, however, argues that in addition to video games, their stores offer several communication devices that "facilitate remote work, distance learning, and virtual connectivity." In response to Vice's report, GameStop issued the following statement:

While GameStop is best known as a provider of gaming and home entertainment systems, we also offer a wide array of products and devices that are important to facilitate remote work, distance learning, and virtual connectivity. As millions of Americans face unprecedented challenges adapting to virtual learning, working and interaction, there is significant need for technology solutions and we are one of many providers of these products that are remaining open at this time. Schools, businesses and families are now suddenly dependent on being able to connect through technology. While there are many businesses and organizations far more critical than ours, we believe we can have a positive impact during this very challenging time. The health and safety of our employees and customers is of utmost importance and we have and will continue to take extensive precautions consistent with CDC guidelines. We are complying with all state, county, city and local ordinances and we will continue to adjust to any future developments.

The move isn't going over well. Many people online are criticizing the company for endangering their employees for the sale of Funko Pop figurines and Rick and Morty t-shirts.

Others, however, just want to get Animal Crossing and other video games they've been waiting, like, a really long time for.