Today I took a walk to my local game store. While there, I inquired after some used games, found Wii Play, dismissed attempts at opening a line of credit, and overheard some curious comments.

While browsing the Under $10 bins, I was following an exchange between a minor and the store manager. You see, this manager was able to persuade the guy to pre-order God of War II . . . y'know, for the exclusive demo disc. :wink: While taking the money for the preorder, he set the perfect example for his subordinates by getting parental consent. He responsibly inquired, "You're Mom's cool with you getting this game, right?"

:roll:

That was quite the loaded question. No surprise the boy responded with a predictable, "Yeah." What was more of a surprise? The mother who was allegedly providing her consent was nowhere to be found.

Not only did that rekindle the disdain I held for that retail establishment, I was curious which of the parties was more at fault. Was it the mother who allegedly provided her consent? Was it the boy who put money down today that could have gathered interest until the day the game actually comes out?
Was it the clerk who manipulated the boy into making an unplanned transaction with an underage customer without obtaining direct parental approval?

If I had really been true to the disgust I felt at the exchange I overheard, I would have left right then and there, instead I bought something. Turns out I was probably the person most at fault for keeping a chain of stores I distrust and believe operate in manipulative self-interest in business. All the more reason why I should be taking what I bought back.

Don't do drugs. If you're under 17, don't buy or play M-rated games without parent permission.