GAME staff are bracing themselves for a busy weekend as Nintendo Switch exclusive Animal Crossing: New Horizons goes on sale amid the coronavirus outbreak.
Earlier this week Eurogamer reported on the concerns of GAME staff, who are faced with interacting with the public at a time when the government has encouraged all non-essential workers to stay at home.
Multiple unconnected sources who work at GAME, who asked not to be named out of fear of reprisal from management, expressed concern about the company’s handling of the coronavirus crisis as it keeps its 247 stores open during the launch of big hitters Doom Eternal and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. There is also a concern about reduced staff as parents are forced to stay home to look after children following the closure of schools.
One assistant manager told Eurogamer: “my colleagues and I are increasingly getting worried by the seemingly lack of action or concern from our head office.” GAME has yet to comment to Eurogamer despite repeated requests.
Staff tell Eurogamer they are now starting to see an increase in footfall as people stock up on games in anticipation of being forced to self-isolate by the government. “This is before we even consider the new releases and the increased volume of phone calls as people enquire as to whether we are open for the new titles so it’s likely to be a very busy weekend,” one person said.