A frustrated shopper took their story to Reddit after receiving a plastic package that didn’t even contain their purchased item. The Redditor explained that they had wanted a physical copy of the new Nintendo Switch game “Just Dance 2024 Edition,” so they bought it from Game, a popular video game retailer. However, upon opening the package at home, they realized it only contained a download code instead of the game cartridge.

The package appeared to be a normal plastic case for a Nintendo Switch game, with the name and a list of participating music artists on the brightly colored cover. Only a tiny label in the bottom corner hinted at what the unfortunate buyer would find inside: “Only realized when I was home that they’d given me a box which only contained a download code,” the Redditor complained.

There are several reasons why a buyer might prefer a physical copy of a game over a digital download. For instance, they might want to protect the game from deletion, save storage space on their device, or have the option to resell their copy once they’re finished with it. Selling a box that looks exactly like a physical copy but contains no game cartridge seems deceptive, and a small “download code only” label does little to rectify the issue.

Moreover, the plastic box itself contributes to the problem of plastic waste, which is difficult to recycle and can pollute the environment when not properly handled. As one commenter pointed out, “I get some people like to display the case, and that getting a box is better than a bit of paper as a present. But I do feel kind of ripped off opening a box of nothing.”

When contacted for comment on their packaging practices, Ubisoft, the game’s developer, did not respond. However, their website details their “play green” initiative, which includes a commitment to global carbon neutrality, waste management, and the eventual elimination of single-use plastic. Given the amount of plastic the video game company uses, this seems like a small step in curbing waste and reaching their target of zero single-use plastic.

To reduce plastic waste, consumers can consider buying digital copies of games, although this comes with its own drawbacks, such as the need for more digital storage. Another option is to buy games secondhand whenever possible. Purchasing pre-owned items in good condition not only saves money but also keeps them out of landfills. Services like Decluttr allow users to trade in their old games and get new pre-owned ones.