Head Start FAQ

[Archived Post]

People are asking the same questions about head start over and over again, and even if you search, it can be tricky to find the posts in which the devs answer those questions. I thought it would be useful to compile all of the questions into a FAQ. The substance of the answers is what I've seen the devs post; I don't have time right now to find all of those posts, but I'll try to edit this post to put in links at some point. (If other people want to post links to dev answers to these questions, that would be great.)

I'm not a dev, I don't speak for the devs, so it's always possible I'm wrong about one of these questions. If so, please post a correct answer with a link to some kind of authority to back up your correction.
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Q. When is head start?

A. Head start begins Friday, August 28, and runs unil the game's official release date (September 1 in North America, September 4 in Europe). Cryptic has said that servers will be up at 10:00 a.m. PDT. That's 1:00 p.m. EDT, and 6:00 or 7:00 p.m. for most of our European friends.
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Q. I pre-ordered the game. Can I get in the head start?

A. You only get in the head start if you pre-ordered from Gamestop, Best Buy, or one of the European retailers. Pre-orders from Walmart, Amazon (in the U.S.), and other North American retailers entitled you to the open beta, but not to the head start.
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Q. How do I get into the head start?

A. If you pre-ordered from a retailer that is in the head start program, the pre-order key you entered has already flagged your account for admission to the head start. Just launch the game on Friday, let it patch, and start playing.
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Q. I pre-ordered from a company that does digital downloads. Will I be able to get in the head start?

A. If your digital download is coming from Gamestop, you have access to the head start just like any other Gamestop customer. If your digital download is coming from Direct2Drive or some other company, you will not have access to the head start.
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Q. I purchased a lifetime or 6-month subscription. Am I entitled to be in the head start?

A. You are only entitled to be in the head start if you pre-ordered your retail copy of the game from one of the retailers in the head start program. If you pre-ordered at Walmart and have a lifetime subscription, you won't be able to start playing until full release.
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Q. Do I need to enter a separate head start key?

A. No. A pre-order key from one of the head start retailers is all you need to get into the head start. There is no additional key.
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Q. I was in the closed beta. Do I need to enter a new key?

A. If you were in the closed beta and used that key to get into the open beta, you will need to enter pre-order key from a head start retailer in order to play in the head start -- your closed beta key will no longer be good once the servers are wiped sometime Thursday.
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Q. I pre-ordered from Gamestop's web site, but the confirmation e-mail I received did not have the pre-order key in it. What should I do?

A. Go to the website and click on your order history. At least one other player found the pre-order key listed in the entry for that order. If it's not there, it's time to contact Gamestop.
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Q. I pre-ordered from Gamestop or Best Buy but did not get a pre-order key. What do I do?

A. If you pre-ordered in a store, they should have given you a CD case with a card in it containing the pre-order key. If you pre-ordered online, the pre-order key should have been included in an e-mail you received from the retailer (usually in the e-mail confirming the purchase). If neither of these things happened, you need to contact the retailer. Cryptic customer support may be able to give you some assistance in dealing with the retailer, but ultimately it is the retailer who is responsible for providing you with your keys.
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Q. Do I need a new client to play in the head start?

A. No. The beta client currently on your machine will get you into the head start. A patch will likely be applied when you launch, turning that client into the final client.
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Q. It's not fair that people who ordered from the wrong retailers don't get to play in the head start. Why can't Cryptic change this?

A. Cryptic likely has a contract with Gamestop and Best Buy under which those retailers agree to make special efforts to promote the game in exchange for exclusive rights to give access to the head start in North America. If Cryptic were to give other people access to the head start, it would be a breach of contract.
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Q. When do I have to enter my retail key?

A. If you are in the head start, Cryptic will give you until September 6 to enter your retail key. If you don't enter it by then, your account will be locked until you do enter it.
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Q. But I'm in Europe, where the earliest we can get the game is September 4, and I'm not likely to get it until after September 6. Will I be locked out?

A. Cryptic has stated that they will extend the grace period for European players, but they're not certain yet how much longer it will extend. So you should be good for at least a couple of days after September 6.
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Q. The retailer I ordered from says that my copy of the game won't be delivered until September 8. How can I play before then?

A. If you are in the head start, you can play from August 28 until September 6 without the retail key. Then you will have to take a couple of days off until your retail copy (with the retail key) arrives. If you are not in the head start, you can't play until you get your retail key. If you want to play sooner, you should see if you can cancel your order with the retailer and try to order from a retailer that promises quicker delivery (or from a retailer that does digital distribution). (And, as noted, if you are in Europe, the grace period will be extended to sometime after September 6, although nobody knows exactly how long it will be.)
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Q. I ordered from a company that does digital distribution. When do I get my retail key?

A. Those companies should allow you to download the game on September 1. At that time, they should provide the retail key, either in the form of an e-mail or in an update to your account with them.

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Bravo! Well done.

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Good FAQ sir.

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I approve this FAQ. now....if people will just read it before asking questions =)

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Nice and timely FAQ, lets keep it bumped for the Friday rush.

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Yes a pretty conmprehensive list of questions and answers :)

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a sticky would be nicer than just having to bump it =)

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The only thing I suggest you add is in regard to the mention of digital downloads. You should mention that GameStop is doing the Early Start where no other Digital Download U.S. retailers are. There is a mass confusion about Direct2Drive and this might avoid another thread about it.

I always wanted to do one big giant massive FAQ. But I just couldn't bring myself to after responding to the same threads over and over. I got burned out. :D

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Excellent info, well presented.

This should be stickied to answer the innumerable questions between now and Sept 1st :).

::thumbs up::

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Q. How do I get into the head start?

A. If you pre-ordered from a retailer that is in the head start program, the pre-order key you entered has already flagged your account for admission to the head start. Just launch the game on Friday, let it patch, and start playing.
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are you sure that is confirmed for all retailers participating in the Early Start programme? I'm not challenging your godly knowlegde - I'm just wondering how you know this (source?) as many retailers do seem to be telling purchasers that they will be getting a seperate head start code...

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are you sure that is confirmed for all retailers participating in the Early Start programme? I'm not challenging your godly knowlegde - I'm just wondering how you know this (source?) as many retailers do seem to be telling purchasers that they will be getting a seperate head start code...

Yes it was confirmed that there's only "One key to rule them all" (beta and early start). The retail key is what you'll need after the 1st and that's it. No one will have gotten another key for early start.

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The only thing I suggest you add is in regard to the mention of digital downloads. You should mention that GameStop is doing the Early Start where no other Digital Download U.S. retailers are. There is a mass confusion about Direct2Drive and this might avoid another thread about it.
Thanks -- I added a question on this.

are you sure that is confirmed for all retailers participating in the Early Start programme? I'm not challenging your godly knowlegde - I'm just wondering how you know this (source?) as many retailers do seem to be telling purchasers that they will be getting a seperate head start code...
The only posts I've seen from Cryptic say that the pre-order code is all you need if you pre-ordered from one of the head start retailers. I'll take their word over the word of a Best Buy customer service rep or in-store salesperson any day. (But if I've overlooked a dev post stating otherwise, I'm happy to be corrected.)

I always wanted to do one big giant massive FAQ. But I just couldn't bring myself to after responding to the same threads over and over. I got burned out.
I was about to go crazy and start writing nasty posts, thereby getting myself banned. This seemed like a better use of my energy.

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A. If you are in the head start, you can play from August 28 until September 6 without the retail key. Then you will have to take a couple of days off until your retail copy (with the retail key) arrives. If you are not in the head start, you can't play until you get your retail key.

Source on this? Cause this is total and utter failure on Cryptics part if true.

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Source on this? Cause this is total and utter failure on Cryptics part if true.
My source on that one is logic. You have to have some kind of key to play, and Cryptic has said that our pre-order keys will only be good until September 6. If you don't have a pre-order key, you can only play if you have a retail key. I suppose if you order online, the retailer might be willing to e-mail you the retail key, which would enable you to start playing before you actually received the physical game in your hands. But without some kind of key, how could someone play?

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Well, in EU, the game isn't even supposed to be released until the 4th.. so that basically gives us 2 days grace period, which is way too short. I ordered from Amazon, and the game isn't gonna be shipped to me until somewhere between 8th-14th or so..
So yeah, I didn't pre-order to be able to play for a few days, and then NOT play for several days before I get the box..

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Well, in EU, the game isn't even supposed to be released until the 4th.. so that basically gives us 2 days grace period, which is way too short. I ordered from Amazon, and the game isn't gonna be shipped to me until somewhere between 8th-14th or so..
So yeah, I didn't pre-order to be able to play for a few days, and then NOT play for several days before I get the box..

so you would rather wait till the 8th-14th to be able to play at all?

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Sticking this. Great thread, JonboyDC!

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Source on this? Cause this is total and utter failure on Cryptics part if true.

Here's a source for you. I emailed GameStop Digital Download merchant and this was their reply:

When bonus items - including Beta CD keys - are available, the items should be emailed to you by GameStop directly within two business days of purchase. You should receive your key shortly if you have not already. Access to the Champions Online Beta starts 8/17/2009 and ends 8/27/2009.

Access to the Early Start program is tied into your Beta key access.

I bought my pre-order yesterday, so I expect my beta key tomorrow. Since they also said I won't get my retail key until the First, I'm glad I can at least get into the Early Start until the 6th. Great FAQ!!

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so you would rather wait till the 8th-14th to be able to play at all?

No, I would instead have ordered from any of the other retailers that would actually ship the game to me on the 4th.

Rekhan, how about an answer for us europeans? Isn't 2 days grace period a bit too short, considering that shipping will take longer in most cases if you ordered from a different country in EU.

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Great job! Thanks very much

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Sticking this. Great thread, JonboyDC!

Yay... Rekhan is my new favorite Dev/Rep. This hopefully will cut down on some of the thread numbers.

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No, I would instead have ordered from any of the other retailers that would actually ship the game to me on the 4th.

.


I don't mean to sound like an ass, I really don't, but it's a matter of choice in the first place. You can wait for the extra length on shipping and be able to play some early and get exclusive items from the head start, or you can skip the head start and get the retail earlier.

They're nice enough to even give till the 6th, they didn't have to do that, and, not to say there hasn't been, but most games that offer a head start or even a pre-launch free period, give at most 1 day after retail on the period, if that.

I think 6 days before you have to put in your key is pretty generous.

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I think 6 days before you have to put in your key is pretty generous.

6 days would have been fine if it actually was that, but it's not released until the 4th in europe, so it's only 2. That's kinda why I'm having a problem with it.

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6 days would have been fine if it actually was that, but it's not released until the 4th in europe, so it's only 2. That's kinda why I'm having a problem with it.

In that case, it would make a bit of sense to extend the period to the 7th or 8th, but that would be stretching it. Part of the reason it's not good to stretch it out that far is there will be US players that wait till the last day to enter their retail code to get the maximum out of their free 30 days.

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I don't know how it is for you, but in the U.S.,I usually get things from Amazon way before their estimated delivery dates. So maybe you'll get it on or before the 8th, and only lose a couple of days in the game.

(Do you have access to any of the retailers doing digital distribution? If so, you could cancel your Amazon order and buy from one of them.)

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I don't know how it is for you, but in the U.S.,I usually get things from Amazon way before their estimated delivery dates. So maybe you'll get it on or before the 8th, and only lose a couple of days in the game.

(Do you have access to any of the retailers doing digital distribution? If so, you could cancel your Amazon order and buy from one of them.)

I don't know how deliveries work in EU, so correct me if I'm wrong, but the 4th is on a friday I do believe. that means, even if they got faster delivery, the earliest it would arrive is the 7th(monday), unless they did like gamestop and ship pre-orders on the day before so overnight shipping arrives on the release date, which would have -some- get it on the 4th. but if it's scheduled to look like the 8th-14th, the earliest possible would be the 7th.

Either way that's still some time that he wouldn't get to play.

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Yeah, i guess I will get mine on the 8th or something, maybe even later, as couldnt order it from D2D at the time i pre-ordered, D2D didnt have it yet. So now i will be stuck 1-2 days whithout the game i guess.

But most of the US companies pretty much ignore europe for a lot of stuff. We get most games later and even pay more for them. During betas we miss most of the events as they are purely scheduled on US times, so its not really a new thing. But i think the Australians have it even worse, they always have down-time during prime-time over there.

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Yeah, i guess I will get mine on the 8th or something, maybe even later, as couldnt order it from D2D at the time i pre-ordered, D2D didnt have it yet. So now i will be stuck 1-2 days whithout the game i guess.

But most of the US companies pretty much ignore europe for a lot of stuff. We get most games later and even pay more for them. During betas we miss most of the events as they are purely scheduled on US times, so its not really a new thing. But i think the Australians have it even worse, they always have down-time during prime-time over there.

yeah, I kinda feel that's always been unfair, considering for the stuff that takes 4-5 months for you to get you can just import a US version >.>

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Amazon told me, I'm getting into the head start with their key just today. I think, I'll know friday ;)

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Sticking this. Great thread, JonboyDC!

when are you going to post the time that head start begins on the 28th?

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Cryptic rep posted in another thread servers come up at 10am PDT on Friday - you may want to add that to your FAQ.

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Yes it was confirmed that there's only "One key to rule them all" (beta and early start). The retail key is what you'll need after the 1st and that's it. No one will have gotten another key for early start.

Awesume. Have a cookie! :p

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Cryptic rep posted in another thread servers come up at 10am PDT on Friday - you may want to add that to your FAQ.
Thanks! Done and done!

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Nice FAQ

/bump

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There are really only a few reasons to get excited about early access:

1) To be able to get "your" character names reserved.

This is usually the one that really gets people wound up, but in CO everyone can have the same name if they want, so the only thing that's unique is your Cryptic account "display" name, which I believe you can create today (or any time) without any keys at all being required. So Head Start buys you nothing in terms of character naming.

2) To get a head start on leveling.

Some people just want to get there first. But this usually means they burn through to max level in a week and find out that not only is there no content to speak of waiting for them, but that there's nobody to do the nonexistent content with because everyone else is still a much lower level Such people usually cancel their subscription after a month. If this is you, I hope you bought a lifetime subscription :) But if you want to be first to 40 and lord it over us (or whichever 1% of the online players are in whatever shard you happen to be on), then knock yourself out.

3) Because you love the game and want to play more/sooner.

This is a great reason, but honestly learn to have just a little patience. You're not going to miss much (anything) if you don't get in for a few extra days.

4) Your friends got in and you didn't and you want to play with them and will just die if they get to level 10 without you.

This one is tough, yeah, but there's not much you can do about it. If you got in and your friends didn't, maybe consider being nice and waiting for them.

There are games where not getting into early start can be a big deal, but for this one it really shouldn't be so much.

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As a lifetime subscriber who made his game purchase from Amazon, I certainly find this disappointing.

I'd qq but who'd carecare?

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Thank you SO much for posting this FAQ. It was a great idea and answered all the questions that I still had. I just wish someone from Cryptic had done it, so you didn't have to. For the most part I see that Cryptic is trying to communicate, however they HAVE dropped the ball in a few places. Hopefully with practice they will get better at it. For their first mmorpg they are doing pretty well. (correct me if I am wrong, but I don't think they have any other mmorpg yet, they just helped develop others.)

At least they stickied this post to make it easier for everyone to find. Better late then never. :)

Thanks again for all the hard work, see you all in game.

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As a lifetime subscriber who made his game purchase from Amazon, I certainly find this disappointing.

I'd qq but who'd carecare?

Be happy with that lifetime sub because some of us missed the bus lol. :D

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Be happy with that lifetime sub because some of us missed the bus lol. :D

Point taken...I'll settle for a single q.

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Seriously perfect. That's all I needed to know.

See ya'll on Friday. I feel a case of being too sick to work coming on.

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I have a question

If i pre-ordered digitally from gamestop should the head start key come in my mail on august 28th or should have I gotten it before then?

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Best. Thread. Ever.

Awesome job and I'm patching right now! I like the new look of the launcher! :cool:

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Kudos. Thanks for posting this. :)

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This actually answered a question for me. Great post.

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I have a question

If i pre-ordered digitally from gamestop should the head start key come in my mail on august 28th or should have I gotten it before then?

Reading : It gets you things.

Q. Do I need to enter a separate head start key?

A. No. A pre-order key from one of the head start retailers is all you need to get into the head start. There is no additional key.

Hope that helps.

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Thanks for posting this, this answered several of my questions. :)

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Thanks a lot for this, wasnt to sure what was going on with the headstart and this is exactly what I was looking for. Thanks for taking the time to help us out :D

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good post^^
lets hope a Dev jumps on here and posts so more people read it
and that they sticky it to save themselves from the forum trolls in the next few days:D
well done

oh BTW Cryptic stated it will begin at 10am PST on Friday the 28th..so youll have to do the math:p

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Amazon told me, I'm getting into the head start with their key just today. I think, I'll know friday ;)

I thought Amazon orders didn't get you into the head start...

(I hope this is true, since I ordered from Amazon too...)

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Point taken...I'll settle for a single q.

Don't hold back! I've got some q's to share (since I'm in the same boat).

QQ! :p

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Seriously good Karma to you sir - fantastic to see supporters of the system with such great insight. Well Done indeed!

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I apologize for asking this again if it was asked in this thread, but does anyone know if we'll be able to start patching earlier than 10am PST on Friday?

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Typically, they put the patch up earlier. So during closed beta, a testing session might start at 10:00 am PDT, but you could patch it the night before. I imagine it'll be the same, but that's just a guess.

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Thanks for the FAQ JonBoy! It's a wonder Cryptic couldn't put one together just like it. :rolleyes:

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Thanks much, good sir! :)

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Reading : It gets you things.

Q. Do I need to enter a separate head start key?

A. No. A pre-order key from one of the head start retailers is all you need to get into the head start. There is no additional key.

Hope that helps.

I'm sorry if you mis-understood me but I was asking when I would get the head-start key and was assuming it would come with the pre-order email but will I have to wait till Sep 1st when they said the pre-order key would ship? cause that ruins the purpose of the head start if I get the key the day the game comes out =/

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I just preordered Tonight from Gamestop received my pre-order email notice and there wasn't a head start code in it...Any idea when I will receive it?

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I'm sorry if you mis-understood me but I was asking when I would get the head-start key and was assuming it would come with the pre-order email but will I have to wait till Sep 1st when they said the pre-order key would ship? cause that ruins the purpose of the head start if I get the key the day the game comes out =/

They should get your pre-order key to you by Friday -- if they can't do that, I don't know why they're calling it a pre-order. (What they should be shipping on the 1st is the retail copy.) I had a similar problem with Best Buy when I pre-ordered CoV -- my recollection was that when I called to complain enough, they e-mailed me the pre-order key. But if you can't get them to do that, I don't know what other suggestion to give you.

I just preordered Tonight from Gamestop received my pre-order email notice and there wasn't a head start code in it...Any idea when I will receive it?
My pre-order key was in the e-mail I got from Gamestop confirming my purchase. I would call them to ask -- I don't know why they wouldn't have included it in your e-mail.

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it's amazing how many people aren't reading this.
i've posted a link to this thread 4 times already because their exactquestion was in this. :confused:

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They should get your pre-order key to you by Friday -- if they can't do that, I don't know why they're calling it a pre-order. (What they should be shipping on the 1st is the retail copy.) I had a similar problem with Best Buy when I pre-ordered CoV -- my recollection was that when I called to complain enough, they e-mailed me the pre-order key. But if you can't get them to do that, I don't know what other suggestion to give you.


My pre-order key was in the e-mail I got from Gamestop confirming my purchase. I would call them to ask -- I don't know why they wouldn't have included it in your e-mail.


here's what my e-mail said
Dear xxxxx xxxxxx,

Thank you for your Pre-order ID

When the product ships, you will receive another email with license and download instructions in order to enjoy the game instantly.

You can also feel good about your CD-ROM free purchase: you saved money by avoiding shipping fees and also eliminated unnecessary packaging by choosing an environment-friendly shopping method.

If you would like to shop for additional great downloadable games, visit the GameStop Digital Download Store at: http://www.gamestop.com/downloadnow

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YOUR PRE-ORDER RECEIPT
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Pre-order placed on:
Title: Champions Online
Qty: 1
Price: 49.99
Tax: 0 (Rate: 0)
Product Total: 49.99

You will be charged for this product when it ships. 2009-09-01
Terms of Service: Champions Online is expected to release September 1st, 2009. Release dates are subject to change.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Your Credit Card will be charged when the product is released for shipment.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

When bonus items are available, the items will be delivered by GameStop directly. If any issues arise around the delivery of bonus content, please send an email to GameStop Customer Service or call (800) 883-8895. GameStop Privacy Policy

- Who we are
We, RealNetworks Inc.'s Trymedia Games Division (“Trymedia”) are a trusted fulfillment partner of Internet game portals and retailers.
We are a US company having an address at 2601 Elliott Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121, USA.

- 48 Hour Money Back Guarantee - Excludes “Try and Buy” Games
With the exception of games sold on a “Try and Buy” basis, all of our products have a 48 hour money back guarantee.
All order support requests including refunds must be submitted through our support form located in the store FAQ's.
After you submit an order support request, a case number will be created and you will receive an e-mail confirmation of your submission.

- Waiver of the statutory cooling off period
By law consumers in the European Union have the right to withdraw from the purchase of goods and services within seven working days
after the day on which they are delivered to the consumer. However, you hereby agree, as you may by law, that with effect from your
commencing download of any game you have purchased (or where you have already downloaded a Try Before You Buy version, with effect
from your unlocking the game after purchase) you waive any such statutory cancellation rights which you might otherwise have.
You will similarly waive your rights from the point at which any person you have purchased a game for as a gift commences download or
unlocks a Try Before You Buy game. If we fail to present your order confirmation and related information prior to your commencing download
or unlocking (as applicable) then your statutory rights may still apply. If you consider that you are still entitled to exercise your statutory rights
and wish to do so then please submit a refund request using the support request form found on the store FAQ page. Please note, any waiver of
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and our team will respond as soon as possible - generally within 24 - 48 hours.

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I've just tried calling Gamestop and their lines are closed Untill tomorrow. <.<

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Mine had this at the end of the e-mail: Bonus Content Information

Dear Valued Customer,

Thank you for pre-ordering Champions Online from Gamestop.com. The Champions Online Beta will commence on Aug. 17th and run through Aug. 27th, 2009. Please follow the instructions below to activate your Champions Online Beta Preview Account and to download the beta client:

1. Go to http://www.fileplanet.com.
2. If you have not already registered for a free FilePlanet.com account you will need to do so now. Simply click on Login to start the process.
3. Once you have created your FilePlanet.com account click on the Champions Online Beta link and then PREORDER CUSTOMERS.
4. You will now be prompted to enter your preorder open beta key. Please enter the key exactly as provided.

Your unique voucher code is: [REDACTED]

5. After going through some simple verification steps you will then be able to use the FilePlanet Download Manager for preloading.

You now have access to the FilePlanet Download Manager, Preload the 2GB Champions Online game client as well as the ability to create your Champions Online Account (when you input your beta key dashes “-“ will automatically populate correctly).

If you have any questions or need assistance with your account please contact Cryptos at preview@crypticstudios.com

Thank you,
GameStop Customer Service

The "voucher code" was my pre-order key. Your e-mail has a phone number in it -- I would call.

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Great post. I have been using the open beta key for the last few days and neglected to enter my Gamestop DD pre-order key.

Also, sorry if this is too off topic. I noticed a lot of posters are concerned about getting their game by launch because, for example, Amazon won't deliver by sometime after September 8th. Would canceling the Amazon order and purchasing the Digital Download from Gamestop.com be a viable solution? That would also give them early access though Head Start. According the Gamestop the digital download is "Available for purchase Worldwide. "

BTW, did I read somewhere (like you know what I've read) that the early start players will have access to items/figures/whatever that will only ever be offered before September 1st?

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Had I have known that I needed a pre-order from BBY, or gamespot, I would've bought it from them instead of D2D... Ah well, C'est la vi. :(

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nice FAQ, TY!

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Good FAQ, ty.:D

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Appreciate the extra mile.

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haha great i thought i was getting another code so i gave my beta key away form my pre-order and now i'm stuck with a fileplanet one woo >.<

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Oh f*ck me.. :O I went and bought from Direct2Drive in hopes that I get in early access... Stupid me.

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Just for extra info, I had pre-purchased 2 copies retail on Saturday and had not gotten a key. I contacted Gamestop and they were able to verify my purchase and they e-mailed me my key. Well, one of them. Now I'm making sure they get my second one to me. But for those who did what I did, they do seem to be honoring these pre-orders, if you just contact their customer service and explain the situation.

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Yeah, i guess I will get mine on the 8th or something, maybe even later, as couldnt order it from D2D at the time i pre-ordered, D2D didnt have it yet. So now i will be stuck 1-2 days whithout the game i guess.

But most of the US companies pretty much ignore europe for a lot of stuff. We get most games later and even pay more for them. During betas we miss most of the events as they are purely scheduled on US times, so its not really a new thing. But i think the Australians have it even worse, they always have down-time during prime-time over there.

I can't say what its like in Australia but in New Zealand its pretty bad. The game isn't available until the 10th here but it may be even later (like the 12th) as they say its being shipped on the 10th. As far as digital downloads go, Gamestop didn't like my credit card so I had to go with D2D. I'm guttered I can't get the early start but at least I don't have to wait for 2 weeks.

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Ya Ryokin same thing happened to me adn my friend...maybe because we got it as a gift =/

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Why wasn't this information made clearly available to everyone in such a simple form before the servers started pinging up and down and the My Account was changed without warning the other day.

I rarely want to spend hours trawling forums. Especially for multiple games BUT It looks as though from skimming this thread so far that many people who have supported Cryptic in buying this game are going to be in an awkward position come friday and wont get in the early start.

I have shelled out around $250 on lifesub and game, still no headstart. I am not very happy , and especially as seeing that in UK game will not start until 4th, the day after I end my holiday.

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I have to agree with oleum... and am in the same situation, my holiday ends in september...
If I had known Direct2Drive wasn't in head start, i would've ordered somewhere else.

Your game is massive, but your sales and marketing stink.

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I have a question, that I do not think has been asked / covered.

Once you have entered your Preorder key that covers Beta + Headstart + Items does your account specifcally say you have access to Headstart as currently all mine says is:

I am assuming the online preorder bit means headstart and Items but i do not know.

Champions Online
Activated Features
Download Champions

* Closed Beta
* Champions Online Lifetime Subscription
* Champions Online Preorder

Subscriptions

* Champions Online Lifetime PENDING RETAIL

[Archived Post]

damn damn damn d2d.com

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Promstar, mine says "Champions Online Preorder - Gamestop." But I don't know how the preorders from other head start retailers would be labeled.

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If you are in the head start, Cryptic will give you until September 6 to enter your retail key. If you don't enter it by then, your account will be locked until you do enter it.

Yay! I was getting my underwear in a bunch until I read that. :p

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Why wasn't this information made clearly available to everyone in such a simple form before the servers started pinging up and down and the My Account was changed without warning the other day.

I rarely want to spend hours trawling forums. Especially for multiple games BUT It looks as though from skimming this thread so far that many people who have supported Cryptic in buying this game are going to be in an awkward position come friday and wont get in the early start.

I have shelled out around $250 on lifesub and game, still no headstart. I am not very happy , and especially as seeing that in UK game will not start until 4th, the day after I end my holiday.

Well im in the same boat and even had to shell out another copy of the game from Gamestop to get the advanced head start as i am a D2D customer, just ordered now from gamestop, anyone know how long they take to send the key ?

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Great post, but it's sad that this had to come from the community 1-2 days before headstart, and not directly from Cryptic much earlier.

Please Cryptic, hire a communications director or get them more support so we can get the info we need. Having to beg for basic info on Open Beta, Head Start and Launch is really pathetic.

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This answered any questions I might have had before I even thought to ask them..thank you..only problem is, I'll be at work when head start launches tomorrow..nuts!:p

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great post, no matter where it came from. So sad people still find things to complain about on the string.

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I'm honestly floored here. The web page clearly stated what was given when you pre-ordered from a place. The headstart was listed in two and not the others. I realy have little sympathy for those who did not understand that ommission of that perk meant they weren't giving it from that pre-order. Gamers are usualy pretty bright, but this realy just amazes me so many people just assumed they were going to get it.

As far as waiting a few days after the headstart to get to play, the CoH one was the same way. Had to wait 3 days to play after the headstart. I reember being furious. I was younger and more impatient. This is not a new thing. It's also not new that a lot of companies cater to the countery who provides 80+% of the consumer market, sometimes at the expense of the european market. I moved to the States from Europe so I have been on all sides and have even lived in Aus. You just get used to what happens where you live.

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Thank you so much! This answered every question I had about Head Start. I appreciate the work.

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when are you going to post the time that head start begins on the 28th?

it's the first topic on the faq how could you not see it?

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How many times can hte same question be asked that has already been answered. I am not thinking hte answer will magically change. Great FAQ because I was unsure if there would be a different answer for the 999th question regarding the what if I didn't buy from the retailers listed for head start. lol;)

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it's the first topic on the faq how could you not see it?
That question was directed at the devs, and was posted before I learned that they had announced the start time and edited the FAQ to reflect that.

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This answered any questions I might have had before I even thought to ask them..thank you..only problem is, I'll be at work when head start launches tomorrow..nuts!:p

Call in with teh swine flu or something. Or eye trouble..You just can't see being at work..

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Quote:
Originally Posted by DiedelH
Yeah, i guess I will get mine on the 8th or something, maybe even later, as couldnt order it from D2D at the time i pre-ordered, D2D didnt have it yet. So now i will be stuck 1-2 days whithout the game i guess.

But most of the US companies pretty much ignore europe for a lot of stuff. We get most games later and even pay more for them. During betas we miss most of the events as they are purely scheduled on US times, so its not really a new thing. But i think the Australians have it even worse, they always have down-time during prime-time over there.

I can't say what its like in Australia but in New Zealand its pretty bad. The game isn't available until the 10th here but it may be even later (like the 12th) as they say its being shipped on the 10th. As far as digital downloads go, Gamestop didn't like my credit card so I had to go with D2D. I'm guttered I can't get the early start but at least I don't have to wait for 2 weeks.


Its not so much the USA ignores the European, AUS areas of the world, and I may be mistaken, but it sounds like a matter of travel time for the game to reach the destinations and get sorted by your countries mailing system for delivery. Now it might be better if the USA companies offered a fex ex option for over night if you paid for the faster delivery times. Just a thought and not trying to sound like an Ahole just thinking off the cuff.

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I haven't pre-ordered from anywhere yet. I was in the closed beta for a while and the open beta. I decided I like this game and am going to stick with it. :)

I was thinking that I could wait until next week to play some more, but if it's not too late I could go for a little head start. Is it too late? If I pre-order tomorrow will I still get a little head start?

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Well im in the same boat and even had to shell out another copy of the game from Gamestop to get the advanced head start as i am a D2D customer, just ordered now from gamestop, anyone know how long they take to send the key ?

I ordered and got my confirmation email from GameStop showing my receipt... but no mention of a headstart code, items or anything except for detailing how much I will be charged and the official shipping date of the 1st. I emailed them to query (since the phones are not on) and am waiting for a response about the headstart key. I'll post on here if I hear something, as I was really looking forward to playing this weekend, but now I have no clue if I even will get access before the 1st despite what they have on their site. Honestly, this business of multiple dates, keys, etc is just a pain for everyone, they need one release date, you pre-order, and you get whatever bonus crap you decide to pay for an be done with it.

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So what about Direct2Drive UK? It's a separate retailler to Direct2Drive (US), in both url, what's available, etc (though part of the same company).

The newsletter states that all UK retaillers doing preorder would include the headstart, so logically this would include D2D UK too? I know in the US theres an exclusivity thing, but to cut out D2D UK would be (in lack of a better word) unjust. It would be like blocking amazon UK because theres an amazon US.

Just a bit confused really. Should probably email them about it, but I don't expect anything back from them (especially the day before the headstart).

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Nice Post, very good info. Kudos

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Well done JohnBoy. You put my mind to rest. I can't wait to see all of you on 8/28!!

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Doc Steel, your questions on Gamestop was answered in the FAQ your pre-order or beta key is your Early access key....

AN FYI regarding Gamestop Pre-Order retail store purchase. The beta key was on a post card given to customers

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WTF? It's not a global launch? I have to wait a ridiculous 4 more days just because I am in Europe? Bah! :mad:

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you might add to the FAQ, for people who order from gamestop's online store, if they don't get their code in an e-mail, to go to the website, check your Order History for the order, and click it, that's where I got my code after pre-ordering.

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Query: I search (admitting I am not the best searcher around) but will there be US/EU servers (stupid) or just a serverlist so US and EU people can play together? (Very smart, the opposite of stupid)

Thanks! :)

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I cant understand why preordering in Direct2Drive UK (digital download) and getting a lifetime subscription like i did, i have no acces to head start program, sounds arbitrary!!! :rolleyes:

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you might add to the FAQ, for people who order from gamestop's online store, if they don't get their code in an e-mail, to go to the website, check your Order History for the order, and click it, that's where I got my code after pre-ordering.
Thanks! I'll do that right now.

Query: I search (admitting I am not the best searcher around) but will there be US/EU servers (stupid) or just a serverlist so US and EU people can play together? (Very smart, the opposite of stupid)
Only one server, with multiple instances. All players will be in the same game world, regardless of where they are physically.

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Well im in the same boat and even had to shell out another copy of the game from Gamestop to get the advanced head start as i am a D2D customer, just ordered now from gamestop, anyone know how long they take to send the key ?

Same here. When I ordered on Sunday, the message I received from them indicated that it would take two business days, but I actually received the message with the code in less than one. This code was for the open beta, but after entering it, my account info shows me as having pre-ordered from Gamestop, so I should be good to go.

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these are by far the most mature mmo forums ive ever had the pleasure of being a part of. thanks for the great FAQ. it was extremely helpful.

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I just went to EBGames/Gamestop and preordered my copy. When I asked about the key needed for the head start program they said that they ran out ages ago. There's no mention of it being a limited offer on the EBGames website.. Any ideas on what I should do about this?

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Well done, got all my questions answered looking forward to headstart!

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Only one server, with multiple instances. All players will be in the same game world, regardless of where they are physically.

Thanks mate, that's wonderful news for me.

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Question: :confused:

If I have already pre-ordered through D2D (no head-start key) and used that key for the open beta...
and I then purchase a pre-order from Best Buy (head start key), Will I be able to gain access to the head start program?
(I intend to only use the pre-order from best buy, and keep my retail purchase through D2D)

to rephrase:
Can I add a second pre-oder to my account and use that second pre-order to gain access to the open beta?

thanks in advance for your prompt and friendly responses!

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... because it helped me.

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I approve this FAQ. now....if people will just read it before asking questions =)

Agreed. I had questions and came to the forums to ask it and i stumbled here and presto, answers galore.

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Can I add a second pre-oder to my account and use that second pre-order to gain access to the open beta?
My impression is that if you can have multiple pre-order keys attached to your account and receive the benefits of all of them (although some of those benefits require you to later enter the retail key as well.) So I'm guessing you could add the BB pre-order key and get into head start. But I don't think I've seen a dev speak to this, so that's just a guess.

ETA: Just found another post quoting Daeke stating that you can apply multiple pre-order keys to your account. So this should work. You just won't ever receive the other extras from the second account unless you also add a retail key from that retailer.

[Archived Post]

My impression is that if you can have multiple pre-order keys attached to your account and receive the benefits of all of them (although some of those benefits require you to later enter the retail key as well.) So I'm guessing you could add the BB pre-order key and get into head start. But I don't think I've seen a dev speak to this, so that's just a guess.

ETA: Just found another post quoting Daeke stating that you can apply multiple pre-order keys to your account. So this should work. You just won't ever receive the other extras from the second account unless you also add a retail key from that retailer.

Can anyone confirm this? I know someone out there must have tried... I'd love to run around the corner and drop 5 bucks on a Best buy Pre-order to get access to the head-start. (It's like a Microtransaction!)

anyone? Bueller?

Edit: - OH! can you link to that post please! I'd like to confirm myself before I drop the dollars.

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This FAQ answered my question! Thanks for the great post! Search FTW

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OH! can you link to that post please! I'd like to confirm myself before I drop the dollars. http://forums.champions-online.com/showthread.php?t=27483

The one caveat is to be sure BB actually has a pre-order code to give you right away. I keep reading posts from people who state that BB is mailing them their pre-order code on Sept. 1. (Which would be consistent with my experience pre-ordering COV from them.)

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Great FAQ! Thanks!

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http://forums.champions-online.com/showthread.php?t=27483

The one caveat is to be sure BB actually has a pre-order code to give you right away. I keep reading posts from people who state that BB is mailing them their pre-order code on Sept. 1. (Which would be consistent with my experience pre-ordering COV from them.)

Hmm, Thank you this helps, but they do not say anything specifically about the "Head Start" program.

Has anyone actually applied a second pre-order code on top of their D2D code and seen the "Head Start" acknowledgment on the account screen?

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So unfair that people on the West Coast get to play at 10am while people on the East Coast have to wait till 1pm.

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So unfair that people on the West Coast get to play at 10am while people on the East Coast have to wait till 1pm.

And us Europeans have to wait until 6pm at the earliest. Oh, and you yanks get six days grace time to enter your retail code; we over here get two. So forgive me for sounding a bit unempathic about your terrible hardships.

[Archived Post]

People are asking the same questions about head start over and over again, and even if you search, it can be tricky to find the posts in which the devs answer those questions. I thought it would be useful to compile all of the questions into a FAQ. The substance of the answers is what I've seen the devs post; I don't have time right now to find all of those posts, but I'll try to edit this post to put in links at some point. (If other people want to post links to dev answers to these questions, that would be great.)

I'm not a dev, I don't speak for the devs, so it's always possible I'm wrong about one of these questions. If so, please post a correct answer with a link to some kind of authority to back up your correction.
-------------
Q. When is head start?

A. Head start begins Friday, August 28, and runs unil the game's official release date (September 1 in North America, September 4 in Europe). Cryptic has said that servers will be up at 10:00 a.m. PDT. That's 1:00 p.m. EDT, and 6:00 or 7:00 p.m. for most of our European friends.
--------------
Q. I pre-ordered the game. Can I get in the head start?

A. You only get in the head start if you pre-ordered from Gamestop, Best Buy, or one of the European retailers. Pre-orders from Walmart, Amazon (in the U.S.), and other North American retailers entitled you to the open beta, but not to the head start.
------------
Q. How do I get into the head start?

A. If you pre-ordered from a retailer that is in the head start program, the pre-order key you entered has already flagged your account for admission to the head start. Just launch the game on Friday, let it patch, and start playing.
------------
Q. I pre-ordered from a company that does digital downloads. Will I be able to get in the head start?

A. If your digital download is coming from Gamestop, you have access to the head start just like any other Gamestop customer. If your digital download is coming from Direct2Drive or some other company, you will not have access to the head start.
------------
Q. I purchased a lifetime or 6-month subscription. Am I entitled to be in the head start?

A. You are only entitled to be in the head start if you pre-ordered your retail copy of the game from one of the retailers in the head start program. If you pre-ordered at Walmart and have a lifetime subscription, you won't be able to start playing until full release.
-------------
Q. Do I need to enter a separate head start key?

A. No. A pre-order key from one of the head start retailers is all you need to get into the head start. There is no additional key.
------------
Q. I was in the closed beta. Do I need to enter a new key?

A. If you were in the closed beta and used that key to get into the open beta, you will need to enter pre-order key from a head start retailer in order to play in the head start -- your closed beta key will no longer be good once the servers are wiped sometime Thursday.
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Q. I pre-ordered from Gamestop's web site, but the confirmation e-mail I received did not have the pre-order key in it. What should I do?

A. Go to the website and click on your order history. At least one other player found the pre-order key listed in the entry for that order. If it's not there, it's time to contact Gamestop.
-------------
Q. I pre-ordered from Gamestop or Best Buy but did not get a pre-order key. What do I do?

A. If you pre-ordered in a store, they should have given you a CD case with a card in it containing the pre-order key. If you pre-ordered online, the pre-order key should have been included in an e-mail you received from the retailer (usually in the e-mail confirming the purchase). If neither of these things happened, you need to contact the retailer. Cryptic customer support may be able to give you some assistance in dealing with the retailer, but ultimately it is the retailer who is responsible for providing you with your keys.
--------------
Q. Do I need a new client to play in the head start?

A. No. The beta client currently on your machine will get you into the head start. A patch will likely be applied when you launch, turning that client into the final client.
---------------
Q. It's not fair that people who ordered from the wrong retailers don't get to play in the head start. Why can't Cryptic change this?

A. Cryptic likely has a contract with Gamestop and Best Buy under which those retailers agree to make special efforts to promote the game in exchange for exclusive rights to give access to the head start in North America. If Cryptic were to give other people access to the head start, it would be a breach of contract.
----------------
Q. When do I have to enter my retail key?

A. If you are in the head start, Cryptic will give you until September 6 to enter your retail key. If you don't enter it by then, your account will be locked until you do enter it.
----------------
Q. The retailer I ordered from says that my copy of the game won't be delivered until September 8. How can I play before then?

A. If you are in the head start, you can play from August 28 until September 6 without the retail key. Then you will have to take a couple of days off until your retail copy (with the retail key) arrives. If you are not in the head start, you can't play until you get your retail key. If you want to play sooner, you should see if you can cancel your order with the retailer and try to order from a retailer that promises quicker delivery (or from a retailer that does digital distribution).
----------------
Q. I ordered from a company that does digital distribution. When do I get my retail key?

A. Those companies should allow you to download the game on September 1. At that time, they should provide the retail key, either in the form of an e-mail or in an update to your account with them.


Thank you very much.

[Archived Post]

And us Europeans have to wait until 6pm at the earliest. Oh, and you yanks get six days grace time to enter your retail code; we over here get two. So forgive me for sounding a bit unempathic about your terrible hardships.
I think he'll forgive you, considering he probably wasn't serious.

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I preordered from bestbuy and they said they are not emailing any Keys if you bought after August 9th.

Looks like Im SOL, and $250 dumber.

[Archived Post]

Got my Headstart Key from Play.Com today although it has warned me not to enter it early as it may invalidate my key.

So I'll try entering the key at 7pm BST to be sure.

Anyone else in the UK already used their key?

[Archived Post]

Hmm, Thank you this helps, but they do not say anything specifically about the "Head Start" program.

Has anyone actually applied a second pre-order code on top of their D2D code and seen the "Head Start" acknowledgment on the account screen?

Yes, this is what I did. My account info shows two pre-orders:


Champions Online Preorder
Champions Online Preorder - GameStop


The first is the D2D, and the second has been indicated by the devs as being sufficient to access the head start.

[Archived Post]

And us Europeans have to wait until 6pm at the earliest. Oh, and you yanks get six days grace time to enter your retail code; we over here get two. So forgive me for sounding a bit unempathic about your terrible hardships.

Actually, Daeke posted the following in this (http://forums.champions-online.com/showthread.php?t=40242) thread just today:

The grace period for EU will be a few days longer. I don't have an exact date at this time, but you aren't penalized for the late launch.

[Archived Post]

Got my Headstart Key from Play.Com today although it has warned me not to enter it early as it may invalidate my key.

I also got my code today. It's the same code as the beta code. If you had a beta code, compare it to the headstart code. If they are the same, you have already entered it.

[Archived Post]

I entered my preorder key from game.co.uk, but there's no mention of any headstart under my account, just "Champions Online Preorder", is this how it's meant to be?

[Archived Post]

Actually, Daeke posted the following in this thread just today:
Quote:
Originally Posted by Daeke
The grace period for EU will be a few days longer. I don't have an exact date at this time, but you aren't penalized for the late launch.

Thanks for this. I'll add it to the first post.

[Archived Post]

As posted on the patcher, It states that all preorders are able to play friday at 10am pst. It has the link going to all retail locations available for preorder. So my guess is anyone that preordered will get in head start.

[Archived Post]

So unfair that people on the West Coast get to play at 10am while people on the East Coast have to wait till 1pm.

Brilliant!


And killer FAQ, cookie perk awarded!

[Archived Post]

Well done...Thank you fo rthat FAQ...Cookies!

[Archived Post]

I had purchased the game online from Best Buy (huge mistake) on Sunday and I have yet to receive the headstart code. I called their customer service center today and the rep said that any purchases after August 8th would result in having the codes mailed (snail mail that is) to the customer. Now what kind of BS is that? Feels like a bait and switch tactic and that's not too cool. This isn't a QQ post, it's a warning to all. Don't purchase anything online from Best Buy.

[Archived Post]

So unfair that people on the West Coast get to play at 10am while people on the East Coast have to wait till 1pm.

Psst. Everyone really gets to play at the same instant. Time is relative. Seriously.

[Archived Post]

thx for FAQ, but i got a question, after reading a rumor somewhere on forum, but seeing nothing to back it up on websites..
For those that ordered from D2D or any other retailer and didnt recieve Early Access, is there ANY way possible to purchase Early Access from a retailer like Gamestop,Bestbuy, or CO website, seperately from the game, for around 5$ or so? I cant cancel my preorder with D2D and pay another 50$ for a box, but if im stuck, i wouldnt mind paying 5$ more to add on the Early Access.

[Archived Post]

This is probably the dumbest question ever. I bought Champions directly from the Champions site. I didn't see anywhere if it said anything about gamespot or d2d. I bought the 6 month subscription.

Since I bought it directly from Cryptic do I get in the early start?

[Archived Post]

A lifetime subscription does not come with head start? I dish out over $200 Canadian and my friend paid a $5 pre-order... which one of us has shown more commitment to the game?

nonsensical.

[Archived Post]

People are asking the same questions about head start over and over again, and even if you search, it can be tricky to find the posts in which the devs answer those questions. I thought it would be useful to compile all of the questions into a FAQ. The substance of the answers is what I've seen the devs post; I don't have time right now to find all of those posts, but I'll try to edit this post to put in links at some point. (If other people want to post links to dev answers to these questions, that would be great.)

I'm not a dev, I don't speak for the devs, so it's always possible I'm wrong about one of these questions. If so, please post a correct answer with a link to some kind of authority to back up your correction.
-------------
Q. When is head start?

A. Head start begins Friday, August 28, and runs unil the game's official release date (September 1 in North America, September 4 in Europe). Cryptic has said that servers will be up at 10:00 a.m. PDT. That's 1:00 p.m. EDT, and 6:00 or 7:00 p.m. for most of our European friends.
--------------
Q. I pre-ordered the game. Can I get in the head start?

A. You only get in the head start if you pre-ordered from Gamestop, Best Buy, or one of the European retailers. Pre-orders from Walmart, Amazon (in the U.S.), and other North American retailers entitled you to the open beta, but not to the head start.
------------
Q. How do I get into the head start?

A. If you pre-ordered from a retailer that is in the head start program, the pre-order key you entered has already flagged your account for admission to the head start. Just launch the game on Friday, let it patch, and start playing.
------------
Q. I pre-ordered from a company that does digital downloads. Will I be able to get in the head start?

A. If your digital download is coming from Gamestop, you have access to the head start just like any other Gamestop customer. If your digital download is coming from Direct2Drive or some other company, you will not have access to the head start.
------------
Q. I purchased a lifetime or 6-month subscription. Am I entitled to be in the head start?

A. You are only entitled to be in the head start if you pre-ordered your retail copy of the game from one of the retailers in the head start program. If you pre-ordered at Walmart and have a lifetime subscription, you won't be able to start playing until full release.
-------------
Q. Do I need to enter a separate head start key?

A. No. A pre-order key from one of the head start retailers is all you need to get into the head start. There is no additional key.
------------
Q. I was in the closed beta. Do I need to enter a new key?

A. If you were in the closed beta and used that key to get into the open beta, you will need to enter pre-order key from a head start retailer in order to play in the head start -- your closed beta key will no longer be good once the servers are wiped sometime Thursday.
-------------
Q. I pre-ordered from Gamestop's web site, but the confirmation e-mail I received did not have the pre-order key in it. What should I do?

A. Go to the website and click on your order history. At least one other player found the pre-order key listed in the entry for that order. If it's not there, it's time to contact Gamestop.
-------------
Q. I pre-ordered from Gamestop or Best Buy but did not get a pre-order key. What do I do?

A. If you pre-ordered in a store, they should have given you a CD case with a card in it containing the pre-order key. If you pre-ordered online, the pre-order key should have been included in an e-mail you received from the retailer (usually in the e-mail confirming the purchase). If neither of these things happened, you need to contact the retailer. Cryptic customer support may be able to give you some assistance in dealing with the retailer, but ultimately it is the retailer who is responsible for providing you with your keys.
--------------
Q. Do I need a new client to play in the head start?

A. No. The beta client currently on your machine will get you into the head start. A patch will likely be applied when you launch, turning that client into the final client.
---------------
Q. It's not fair that people who ordered from the wrong retailers don't get to play in the head start. Why can't Cryptic change this?

A. Cryptic likely has a contract with Gamestop and Best Buy under which those retailers agree to make special efforts to promote the game in exchange for exclusive rights to give access to the head start in North America. If Cryptic were to give other people access to the head start, it would be a breach of contract.
----------------
Q. When do I have to enter my retail key?

A. If you are in the head start, Cryptic will give you until September 6 to enter your retail key. If you don't enter it by then, your account will be locked until you do enter it.
----------------
Q. But I'm in Europe, where the earliest we can get the game is September 4, and I'm not likely to get it until after September 6. Will I be locked out?

A. Cryptic has stated that they will extend the grace period for European players, but they're not certain yet how much longer it will extend. So you should be good for at least a couple of days after September 6.
----------------
Q. The retailer I ordered from says that my copy of the game won't be delivered until September 8. How can I play before then?

A. If you are in the head start, you can play from August 28 until September 6 without the retail key. Then you will have to take a couple of days off until your retail copy (with the retail key) arrives. If you are not in the head start, you can't play until you get your retail key. If you want to play sooner, you should see if you can cancel your order with the retailer and try to order from a retailer that promises quicker delivery (or from a retailer that does digital distribution). (And, as noted, if you are in Europe, the grace period will be extended to sometime after September 6, although nobody knows exactly how long it will be.)
----------------
Q. I ordered from a company that does digital distribution. When do I get my retail key?

A. Those companies should allow you to download the game on September 1. At that time, they should provide the retail key, either in the form of an e-mail or in an update to your account with them.

Thanks...10am PDT!

[Archived Post]

do i have to dl a new client or patch the beta client

[Archived Post]

and, not to say there hasn't been, but most games that offer a head start or even a pre-launch free period, give at most 1 day after retail on the period, if that.

I think 6 days before you have to put in your key is pretty generous.

The point, Kalius, is that for those of us in Europe, the grace period up to 6th is not 6 days. The game is actually released in Europe on 4th, not 1st. While you could say that it's pretty generous giving us any grace period at all, I think it makes sense given the postal problems we sometimes have. We'd just like a few extra days in Europe to make up for the release 4 days after the US release and it looks as if Cryptic are giving us a few extra days to make up for the late launch.

[Archived Post]

Actually, Daeke posted the following in this (http://forums.champions-online.com/showthread.php?t=40242) thread just today:

Thanks. Sometimes it's good to be wrong.

Not often, but sometimes.

[Archived Post]

This was extremely helpful... Was wondering when they planned on gettin us in.

[Archived Post]

Bump. That is all.


(P.S. ********s)

[Archived Post]

Damn...9 hours to go...grrrrrr......

[Archived Post]

Have one of u with Gamestop digital download an Headstartkey email ?
7 Hours to go and i have no Headstartkey :(

[Archived Post]

Great post

[Archived Post]

I just went to EBGames/Gamestop and preordered my copy. When I asked about the key needed for the head start program they said that they ran out ages ago. There's no mention of it being a limited offer on the EBGames website.. Any ideas on what I should do about this?

Cancel your pre-order and order it ONLINE for instore pickup. Then you will be emailed a code.

[Archived Post]

This is probably the dumbest question ever. I bought Champions directly from the Champions site. I didn't see anywhere if it said anything about gamespot or d2d. I bought the 6 month subscription.
What you have purchased is a subscription -- you still need to purchase the actual software from a retailer.

[Archived Post]

i just made a thread about how difficult it was to find info about this, then i refresh and this pops up xD..

thanks dude. great help.

[Archived Post]

Yes, this is what I did. My account info shows two pre-orders:


Champions Online Preorder
Champions Online Preorder - GameStop


The first is the D2D, and the second has been indicated by the devs as being sufficient to access the head start.

Ok the above worrys me abit. I had ordered the game from D2D, when i realised that game stop had the head start i brought another copy. I inputed the gamestop beta key that includes the headstart but my account only shows

Champions Online Preorder....does that mean im stuffed ?

[Archived Post]

Ignore my above post, now it appears with the game stop title, so i guess that means head start for me!. Now anyone know a time converter to when head start actually happens ?

[Archived Post]

Very well done. . .answered many questions that I had .. . .

[Archived Post]

:) Top notch man uve answered all my questions, thank you very much

[Archived Post]

poop I got my from D2D and didn't see this thread first, I would be miffed but after playing the beta it is so damn good I can wait....just gotta gnaw my legs off in anticipation and frustration.

[Archived Post]

good faq. thanks for putting it up there.

[Archived Post]

I Pre-Ordered from Gamestop. I didn't receive a CD case but I did receive a Post Card type card with a key on it. I was able to get into Open Beta but It says I don't have permission to log into the Game for the Head Start. Do I have to go back and get another key? Is the server just not working right now? Can anyone help me out here?

[Archived Post]

So... is there any chance of getting a 'game timer' message rather than 'This account isn't allowed access to this server'? I thought there was something I needed to do, that my game might have still been pointed to the test server. (Mind you, testing new content like in CoH/CoV would be cool, but not as cool as playing the actual head start.)

[Archived Post]

Kinda weird that you can play (open beta) if pre-ordered from D2D and then get cut off for a few days before you can play again. It kinda ****es me off. And no, I didn't realize it would go like this... I used the link on the CO website.

[Archived Post]

Yep that reallly sucks, i pre orderd from D2D , got my lifetime abo yesterday but still no headstart , and sorry Cryptic but thats simply ****. You point to D2D on your homepage telling people its nr 1 on D2D , so why you dont tell people directly in the same advertisment that there is no headstart for D2D customers? i bought it at the D2D page after i read your NR1 D2D advertisment here on the official page

[Archived Post]

I have a stupid question, are we no longer getting the foil wings and crytic points and such, or did they replace it with the event and the headstart?

[Archived Post]

Each retailer had their own package of goodies like that, and as far as I know, we're still getting them. The stuff we can get from the event this weekend is just additional stuff.

[Archived Post]

Each retailer had their own package of goodies like that, and as far as I know, we're still getting them. The stuff we can get from the event this weekend is just additional stuff.

I hope so that would be sweet, I dont think ill do it but you guys can alway shoot them an email, it ya feel like it.
/reads the back of the card
If you have any questions or need assistance with your account, e-mail us at preview@crypticstudios.com

But this thread has most of my questions already answered.

[Archived Post]

Its important to note the original author of this thread is not a Dev. A dev later put it on sticky and it therefore looks like a Dev Post by default.

The best way to confirm will be to wait and see. I have seen numerous posts on the forums which conflict the original author of this post. The conflicting posts were made by different Devs and players at different times.

I agree that people that got directed to D2D by default on the website and do not get in Headstart kind of got mislead if they can not get into Headstart. As far as I could tell the only difference in preorder retailers was different costume pieces being available.

[Archived Post]

Very good FAQ, wish I had read it before getting it on Direct2Drive.. Might pick up a preorder box at Best Buy as the fiancee will want to play soon anyway.

[Archived Post]

Well hearing about the D2D thing now confuses me. I have read numerous times about people ordering off D2D that ARE able to get in for the Head Start access. So why can't I or anyone else who ordered off Direct 2 Drive get in as well? And if we can't..that is severely messed up. No prior warning saying anything about NOT getting access? or in this case, only a select few get access to the head start weekend who ordered from D2D.

In short all the D2D customers got screwed thanks to the lack of info. I still want to find out how some of us D2D Customers can get on but others can't...any ideas?

[Archived Post]

In short all the D2D customers got screwed thanks to the lack of info. I still want to find out how some of us D2D Customers can get on but others can't...any ideas?

This is a fact. Still, what are we going to do?

Yes, yes, we should have read a little better about pre-ordering.

But that doesn't excuse the fact that pre-orders should be handled across the board, and it ends up to Cryptic's shame that they used this as a contractual tool.

Taking notes on what not to do at next release yet?

[Archived Post]

Oh God, it really blows that my friend got into early start and I didn't, and we both bought the game from Direct2Drive same time...

[Archived Post]

I pre-ordered digitally from Gamestop. All they said is I will get my key on the 1st even though on the page it said headstart access and a few other perks. Now it's not there and the key never came. Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah.

[Archived Post]

I'm not so much angry as I am frustrated, it does kind of tee me off to hear that some D2D preorders got into the head start. I was coping until I heard that. Can we get consistency anywhere.:confused:

[Archived Post]

This is a fact. Still, what are we going to do?

Yes, yes, we should have read a little better about pre-ordering.

But that doesn't excuse the fact that pre-orders should be handled across the board, and it ends up to Cryptic's shame that they used this as a contractual tool.

Taking notes on what not to do at next release yet?

+1 This is pretty terrible. I don't know why we'd get the shaft here. I have been having fun with the game, reporting bugs, and I pre-ordered. This is my reward!

[Archived Post]

Add myself to the list again - Not only does D2D say the start date in Europe is the 1st, and all other places state the 4th, but I was in closed beta, then open beta, and yet now, not in at all when a few of my other mates are? What gives there?

I'm just very confused and would like some kind of answer as there's several different messages floating around that if we were in open beta, we were also in the early start, and yet somehow that doesn't seem to be the case, which makes zero sense to me.

[Archived Post]

Indeed, after hearing that some others got in with their D2D keys it gave me some hope but hours later I'm still facing the same shard error message.

[Archived Post]

I posted earlier but it was deleted in forum reboot. Basically just want to show my discontent with Cryptic for honoring some pre-orders and not others, you shouldn't have to read the fine print, it should be clearly stated in bold for all to see, not buried in a forum.

As a result of this, closing the subscription bonuses, and now some D2D's being allowed in and others not, I am no longer interested in spending my money on Cryptic's work. Double standards and fine print, last minute posts regarding important information, this company doesn't deserve my business.

-Peace

[Archived Post]

I am starting to spread this message on various outlets... Feel free to copy/paste and/or edit for your personal desires.

To Cryptic Studios:

I really don't think you can brush this under the carpet. There are a LOT of D2D customers angry that we aren't in on the head start. If it weren't for some of them being in somehow, I'd let it go. Don't use us as pawns in a contract and shatter my respect for your gaming studio. The launch is looking messier and messier as the hours go by...

Oh, and BTW.. I am part of a rather large gaming community about to launch a new site including reviews and guides. You were to be one of our first featured games.

[Archived Post]

<-------jealous

[Archived Post]

Here are a couple of things that bother me regarding the exclusivity of the Headstart system:


Early, Headstart is for the Loyalest of Players - You know who you are. You're the guys who closed/open beta'd. You're the guys who followed the game's development on IGN and elsewhere over the years. You're the ones who pulled your hair out when the open beta release went terribly. You're the ones who missed sleep just to get a few moments of play time in, knowing full-well that your efforts would be wiped once the game went live.

Headstart everywhere else in this market is about one thing: rewarding the pre-orders. These are the people who are going to support you through the years, Cryptic. And I'll tell you right now, if your product wasn't so good, you'd not see a single month's worth of subscription payment from me.

Why? Because you decided that for CO, it isn't about the players: it's about contracts. As one who has been MUD'ing since.. 1993 or thereabouts, let me share something you should already know: people will go elsewhere if you treat them this way.


Why do people do Digital Downloading? The answer is a simple one: to begin playing as soon as possible, without having to wait for any gamestore to open, or for the mail to arrive. We want to be the first ones in the virtual door. Such disgust on our part is completely understandable given this fact. But, see point #1: it's not about making sense. It's about contracts.


Poor, Poor, Poor Communication, Cryptic You had to know this was a potential issue, one that would cause a great deal of wailing and gnashing of teeth when the selective doors finally swung open. You should've done better to keep the playerbase informed of what was going on. Slapping a sticky on a player note written only a couple of days before headstart is really, really bad form.

There you have it. At least I've spoken my peace :).

[Archived Post]

If I had known any of this ahead of time I would have gone to an "Authorized" retailer instead of going to the one I bought from, but for God's sake, I bought from Amazon...you would think that I could at least get the head start from such a large retailer.

I for one am going to cancel my pre-order. I enjoyed the Beta and was really looking forward to the head start, but now this!?

I am out...enjoy the game. Those of you who can.

[Archived Post]

If I had known any of this ahead of time I would have gone to an "Authorized" retailer instead of going to the one I bought from, but for God's sake, I bought from Amazon...you would think that I could at least get the head start from such a large retailer.

I for one am going to cancel my pre-order. I enjoyed the Beta and was really looking forward to the head start, but now this!?

I am out...enjoy the game. Those of you who can.

Same here.

[Archived Post]

Same here.

At least you can. Those of us who D2D'd are in a non-refundable situation, making it impossible to act on our contempt for this situation ;)

[Archived Post]

Q. I pre-ordered the game. Can I get in the head start?

A. You only get in the head start if you pre-ordered from Gamestop, Best Buy, or one of the European retailers. Pre-orders from Walmart, Amazon (in the U.S.), and other North American retailers entitled you to the open beta, but not to the head start.
------------

Q. I pre-ordered from a company that does digital downloads. Will I be able to get in the head start?

A. If your digital download is coming from Gamestop, you have access to the head start just like any other Gamestop customer. If your digital download is coming from Direct2Drive or some other company, you will not have access to the head start.

These are contradicting statements. I digital downloaded from D2D UK which is a Euro retailer if I remember my geography. I know I paid full price in Pounds. Come on guys give the idiots that have been in many headstarts and never heard of the tactic of only certain people get access so we just ordered the easiest.

[Archived Post]

These are contradicting statements. I digital downloaded from D2D UK which is a Euro retailer if I remember my geography. I know I paid full price in Pounds. Come on guys give the idiots that have been in many headstarts and never heard of the tactic of only certain people get access so we just ordered the easiest.

This is exactly, exactly correct. Who would have guessed that pre-orders would be treated differently? This isn't how the market operates.

Come on, Cryptic: a pre-order key is a pre-order key. Open the gates.

[Archived Post]

I hear ya man. It is incredible that the developers wish for this game to fail so hard, but at last they do.

The only reason that I got from D2D was the fact of getting the headstart, but of course being told lies how could any of us have known?

[Archived Post]

This answered all my questions. Thanks . Good post

[Archived Post]

So, uh... this is probably going to sound silly, but if we preorder from Gamestop or BestBuy or whatever during the early start, will we still get the preorder bonuses? I ask this because yesterday my dad wouldn't let me preorder since he's not getting his paycheck until today, and now Gamestop no longer lists preorder bonuses on their CO page. I'd be pretty ****ed if I couldn't get into early start just because I had to wait for my dad to get paid. Not only that, but I had to wait until I could get into the open beta to find out if the game would even run on my computer, which was COMPLETE BULL****. Once I finally found out it could run (albeit poorly and while looking like 12 kinds of vomit), I had to wait even longer before I could preorder.

I'm sorry for going off, but this is SUPREMELY frustrating for me.

[Archived Post]

These are contradicting statements. I digital downloaded from D2D UK which is a Euro retailer if I remember my geography. I know I paid full price in Pounds. Come on guys give the idiots that have been in many headstarts and never heard of the tactic of only certain people get access so we just ordered the easiest
Sorry about that -- when I wrote that, I had no idea there was such a thing as D2D UK. I'm not sure why people who pre-ordered from that EU retailer out of all others are not able to get into head start.

[Archived Post]

I pre-ordered direct to drive, got my key days ago and today I find out because of my loyalty to this game i get shafted. WTF Cryptic. This is how you are treating your customers already? Make the head start open to everyone for god sake, what kind of money grabbing tactic is this?

[Archived Post]

Thanks for the insightful FAQ, answered all of my questions, particularly the "grace period" for EU gamers.

Makes me wish I'd paid a bit more for an express delivery now :rolleyes:

[Archived Post]

Sorry about that -- when I wrote that, I had no idea there was such a thing as D2D UK. I'm not sure why people who pre-ordered from that EU retailer out of all others are not able to get into head start.

Ok so does that still leave us out???? There are people on the forum reporting that their D2D key is working fine.

[Archived Post]

Here are a couple of things that bother me regarding the exclusivity of the Headstart system:


Early, Headstart is for the Loyalest of Players - You know who you are. You're the guys who closed/open beta'd. You're the guys who followed the game's development on IGN and elsewhere over the years. You're the ones who pulled your hair out when the open beta release went terribly. You're the ones who missed sleep just to get a few moments of play time in, knowing full-well that your efforts would be wiped once the game went live.

Headstart everywhere else in this market is about one thing: rewarding the pre-orders. These are the people who are going to support you through the years, Cryptic. And I'll tell you right now, if your product wasn't so good, you'd not see a single month's worth of subscription payment from me.

Why? Because you decided that for CO, it isn't about the players: it's about contracts. As one who has been MUD'ing since.. 1993 or thereabouts, let me share something you should already know: people will go elsewhere if you treat them this way.


Why do people do Digital Downloading? The answer is a simple one: to begin playing as soon as possible, without having to wait for any gamestore to open, or for the mail to arrive. We want to be the first ones in the virtual door. Such disgust on our part is completely understandable given this fact. But, see point #1: it's not about making sense. It's about contracts.


Poor, Poor, Poor Communication, Cryptic You had to know this was a potential issue, one that would cause a great deal of wailing and gnashing of teeth when the selective doors finally swung open. You should've done better to keep the playerbase informed of what was going on. Slapping a sticky on a player note written only a couple of days before headstart is really, really bad form.

There you have it. At least I've spoken my peace :).


+1

That pretty much says it all.. I have a support ticket in as well.. This is inexcusable.

Edit: My final thoughts (http://forums.champions-online.com/showthread.php?p=853464#post853464):

After reading the forums all day and being a Direct2Drive customer.. It seems like this "head-start" launch has been a fiasco of sorts. Some things didn't seem to be thought through all the way..

I think they only way Cryptic can make good on this is by giving everyone everything or nothing. So many problems for people, it would be a quick fix. Let the D2D people in, fix the pre-order items and just give all of them to everyone to be fair. It's not like you lose anything. You get what you bought, PLUS the other stuff. Anyone who pre-ordered should be treated the same now that this has blown up this much.

Just my 2 influence...

[Archived Post]

Unacceptable...I pre ordered so i could get in the head start action for the weekend and got screwed because my prefered source is D2D. What is the point of this really...I paid for the game in full already but yet i still can not play...yea yea go ahead and say there was a sub note hidden on a web page. The fact is i have ordered from gamestop before and i was not impressed with thier level of service...not to mention no where on thier site does it say thier customers get a head start...CO staff...you really need to fix this...not looking like a good start for the game.

[Archived Post]

Aww man... I Pre-Ordered from Direct2Drive since I can only use PayPal and was in hope of getting in early start. Too bad I didn't know the D2D "Pre-Order" was a joke.

I mean seriously, what kind of Pre-Order let's you download the client - YET you'r still not allowed into early start. It's not like I did it for the beta key since I've already been here from closed beta stage.

I just feel so betrayed. :|

[Archived Post]

One more point, and then I'm calling it quits.

This whole mess is akin to the early pulling of the Lifetime/Six-Month subscriptions. Those subscriptions ended because some number-cruncher within the system realized that with the current rate of sales, they'd end up damaging future revenues. Thus, they pulled the subscriptions early, and were met with a deluge of unhappy gamers. They rectified the situation only when offended gamers got vocal.

What I'm driving at is that this is yet another indication that the company considers its playerbase second. Instead of thinking about what might make the consumer happy with their product, they went up a tier and considered primarily what would make the retailer happy with their product.

And what I'm seeing in this thread and elsewhere is the result of such thinking. Players are already leaving and the game hasn't launched yet.

As I've stated multiple times, I'm not leaving because I think the game is just too good to ignore on the basis that it's under poor management. I'm willing to stick it out through a lot when this is the case.

In the end, though, what I've learned is this: be very, very careful when dealing with Cryptic.

[Archived Post]

One more point, and then I'm calling it quits.

This whole mess is akin to the early pulling of the Lifetime/Six-Month subscriptions. Those subscriptions ended because some number-cruncher within the system realized that with the current rate of sales, they'd end up damaging future revenues. Thus, they pulled the subscriptions early, and were met with a deluge of unhappy gamers. They rectified the situation only when offended gamers got vocal.

What I'm driving at is that this is yet another indication that the company considers its playerbase second. Instead of thinking about what might make the consumer happy with their product, they went up a tier and considered primarily what would make the retailer happy with their product.

And what I'm seeing in this thread and elsewhere is the result of such thinking. Players are already leaving and the game hasn't launched yet.

As I've stated multiple times, I'm not leaving because I think the game is just too good to ignore on the basis that it's under poor management. I'm willing to stick it out through a lot when this is the case.

In the end, though, what I've learned is this: be very, very careful when dealing with Cryptic.

QFT

I will stick it out.. Hell I paid for it. Hope they can sleep at night after ****ing on their playerbase.

[Archived Post]

http://forums.champions-online.com/showthread.php?t=44452

[Archived Post]

There has to be something for people to constantly complain about doesn't there?

I did all my research a month ago as to which store / distribution copany to purchase from. I never saw anything about a head start program except for Gamestop and Best Buy. Different places had different pre order bonuses which has become pretty common from what I have seen. Two of them offered a 3 day head start, the rest didn't.

I understand if people don't like Gamestop. There was the chance to get into the head start with Best Buy then. Nothing was hidden about any of the deals that I saw.

Can we havea few days where there isn't a mass threatening of account cancellations because people didn't get exactly what they wanted?

[Archived Post]

Dude when a person is thinking ok i'll pre-order the game to get the headstart, and when the D2D site tells you, you will have the headstart then wtf do you want from people?

Plus if you freaking preorder a game than what the hell else would a person want besides the headstart?

[Archived Post]

anyone else have this issue?
I preordered from Gamestop, they e-mailed me a receipt, but I have no early release key.
they haven't charged my card yet, and won't until the game goes retail.
I did order the digital download copy
waiting to hear back from GS customer service, but I was wondering if anyone else had this problem

[Archived Post]

Oh look they closed the head start thread (http://forums.champions-online.com/showthread.php?t=45413)...

I hope this is a good sign. Redemption... not silencing :)

[Archived Post]

Q. I pre-ordered from a company that does digital downloads. Will I be able to get in the head start?

A. If your digital download is coming from Gamestop, you have access to the head start just like any other Gamestop customer. If your digital download is coming from Direct2Drive or some other company, you will not have access to the head start.
------------
Q. I purchased a lifetime or 6-month subscription. Am I entitled to be in the head start?

A. You are only entitled to be in the head start if you pre-ordered your retail copy of the game from one of the retailers in the head start program. If you pre-ordered at Walmart and have a lifetime subscription, you won't be able to start playing until full release.


Based on the other forum posts I have seen, this seems to be correct, but...

I purchased from D2D, and I purchased a Lifetime Subscription, and for some reason I am able to sign in and play. At first I thought they had just opened the character creator to everyone, but then I found that I could enter the tutorial area. I haven't played though and left the tutorial yet, but I assume that if I can get that far I can access the rest of the game as well.

Unless I have missed an announcement somewhere (which is quite possible, because at the moment I am more interested in playing then in reading the forums), I think it must be a mistake that my account has access to the Head Start. If it is not a mistake, the most likely explanation would probably be that they are granting access to lifetime subscribers - so anyone else with a lifetime sub who didn't order from one of the Head Start retailers, you might want to check and see if you can sign in.

If this is a mistake and my account should not actually have access, and any Dev reads this - then I'm just kidding. I don't really have access. Devs, please disregard this post.

[Archived Post]

Based on the other forum posts I have seen, this seems to be correct, but...

I purchased from D2D, and I purchased a Lifetime Subscription, and for some reason I am able to sign in and play. At first I thought they had just opened the character creator to everyone, but then I found that I could enter the tutorial area. I haven't played though and left the tutorial yet, but I assume that if I can get that far I can access the rest of the game as well.

Unless I have missed an announcement somewhere (which is quite possible, because at the moment I am more interested in playing then in reading the forums), I think it must be a mistake that my account has access to the Head Start. If it is not a mistake, the most likely explanation would probably be that they are granting access to lifetime subscribers - so anyone else with a lifetime sub who didn't order from one of the Head Start retailers, you might want to check and see if you can sign in.

If this is a mistake and my account should not actually have access, and any Dev reads this - then I'm just kidding. I don't really have access. Devs, please disregard this post.
Lifetime subs have headstart, so I believe.

[Archived Post]

No Shards Found you have a ticket with one permission pairs, but no shards were found [server down]

No problems I have enjoyed very much working with the DEV TM Beta Testing for months and Will just farm for a day or two then go to the retailer for the full box and the KEy in it.. with the 30 days and work out the Sub from there..
I am not burned out and So much of the Cryptic CO world awaits to be re-visited and examined a new after old Areas are polished and re-opened for retail .. Tis really been fun.

The Pre-order ITems were never why I was signing on for an extended journey here to begin with..
Those the Lit' Grond looked so much like the SD April Fools one it was amazing.

[Archived Post]

The most common problem seems to be, that people have used the link on CO's front page that states "Pre-Order now, get early access!", then they have bought the game from the retailer they are most comfortable using - and now knowing only certain retailers have the codes that work with early access.

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Yeah, I am one of the D2D peeps myself....wrongly figured I'd get the headstart. Ah well, it's only a couple of days, would have been cool though.

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Lifetime subs have headstart, so I believe.

As much as I hate to /bug something this good to me. I have D2D and a 6 month sub, but I can get into the tutorial.

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The most common problem seems to be, that people have used the link on CO's front page that states "Pre-Order now, get early access!", then they have bought the game from the retailer they are most comfortable using - and now knowing only certain retailers have the codes that work with early access.

This is certainly the case for many of us. They really need to make this better. I say they should let us in tomorrow.

Just my two influence :/

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I wish this information had been clear when I preordered.

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I wish this information had been clear when I preordered.

Indeed.. I really wish we'd get AT LEAST an apology from them. This is stupid. Bad business practice, bad marketing(misleading about head start access), and poor customer support == BAD SIGNS for what is to come. I am going to play my free month, then will think about boycotting if this isn't addressed. This is just text book bad customer service!

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The problem with the Gamestop pre-order seems to lay with the digital download version. Like many others here I tried to pre-order this game through Gamestop. I chose the digital download version. There was no pre-order key in the confirmation email nor could I locate one on their website. Being the sole reason I chose to go this route I just got a refund. Not being one to give up easily (plus I have a free weekend) I decided to try again. This time I ordered a boxed copy to be delivered to my house. After checking the confirmation email there was a pre-order key! I wish I would have known this the first time and wanted to share this information with everyone else.

To everyone looking to get a pre-order key from Gamestop make sure you order the box copy. Do NOT order the digital download version.

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Just for clarification...If you ordered through D2D and you also purchased a 6 month or lifetime membership it seems as though you CAN get into the head-start. Wasn't sure if anyone else could confirm this but seems to be the case on several people's posts in the forums.

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The problem with the Gamestop pre-order seems to lay with the digital download version. Like many others here I tried to pre-order this game through Gamestop. I chose the digital download version. There was no pre-order key in the confirmation email nor could I locate one on their website. Being the sole reason I chose to go this route I just got a refund. Not being one to give up easily (plus I have a free weekend) I decided to try again. This time I ordered a boxed copy to be delivered to my house. After checking the confirmation email there was a pre-order key! I wish I would have known this the first time and wanted to share this information with everyone else.

To everyone looking to get a pre-order key from Gamestop make sure you order the box copy. Do NOT order the digital download version.

Dont go to gamestop at all, i called them twice earlier today and they said they removed mention of beta/head start keys and that they are not available. It appears its too late to get the key from gamestop. No matter what form you try to have it shipped. Its just frustrating that Champs web site still advertises the keys for gamestop purchases.

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Yea Head start weekend

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Okay D2D people, it's confirmed - and you're probably not going to like it;

You need to get a subscription before you can access early start. While we got a 30 days free play without a subscription, it didn't get us into the early start. The reason all these other folks are able to get in is because they have a subscription.

A mate of mine purchased a subscription for me (6 months), and I'm patching and in.

No, it's not very cool, it would have been nice if that had been explained somewhere, but that's the way it seems to work. HOWEVER, with that said, you won't have to pay at all for the first month.

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but where are you all getting your beta keys? I dont believe the D2D site provides keys until release day..?

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I got my beta key through my UK site, they sent it ages ago. So I'm not sure where the holdup is on that score - but I had mine for open beta.

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Didn't know about this thread. As I am spreading my rant as far and wide as Cryptic will tolerate on thier forums, might as well hit this as well, eh?

From another thread:

"Welp. Guess I'm a douche. I just pre-ordered, following the link from Cryptic's website that offered me the early-access program, through Gamestop and Try-not-to-fail-Media, and no key.

For those giving the ol' "buck up, it's not <insert company name>'s fault you waited so long, shoulda bought retail" lines of crap, I say this: As a consumer, who's business is sought after enough to spend thousands of dollars and man hours on sucking me in with hawt webpages and slickety prmotions, why at the moment that I have pledged my business and money must you utterly FAIL?!

It is absolutely ludicrous to imply that as consumers we should not hold the businesses that supposedly need us so vitally accountable when they fail to deliver. If we should not expect follow through on the promise, then it is a lie. A company that lies to you to obtain you business absolutely owes recompensation.

Cryptic owes for not caring enough on the day of thier big promotional launch to ensure that the content, ESPECIALLY content that will lead to a purchase, is accurate. This is supposed to be crunch-day for these guys, and nobody is at the wheel.

Gamestop owes for not being involved more in it's partner's practices. I work for a software company that runs an online business service as well. There is not a MINUTE that we do not know the happenings and dealings of our partners. If there is an issue impacting mutual customers we tend to know when, if not before the partner does.

And, finally, Try-but-FailMedia owes. Who the hell doesn't staff a 24/7 online downlaod game service......24/7?!!! I can't call these yuks when they have a hand in fekking up my purchase?! The email submittal says I will have a reply in "24-48 hours".......by monday. Awesome. Do they handle all launch promos with such urgency?

If you are a stinged consumer, remember: YOU ARE THE CONSUMER! Email and call EVERY ONE OF THESE ARSE-HOLES! Use EVERY MINUTE you would have used enjoying your purchase as promised to make an employee there as miserable, if not more than you are. You have the wallet, so you have the right!"

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The Q&A says direct2drive is not part of the head start.
I am logging in fine with my d2d preorder account this morning .

Not sure what problems are occurring for others.

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I bought the 6 months subscription and I now play in the headstart !

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Well, it's been 11 hours since I bought my Gamestop pre-order. Still no access.

I tried some of the tips from the other forums. I tried re-using my open beta key. I get the expected "key already used" error. My account still does not reflect any products. Obvious, as I was not provided the key I was promised, and open beta has closed.

If I try the launcher I have left over from beta I get the "no shards" crap, I asssume because no product is associated with my account.

I've seen some suggest I buy the 6 month subscription. Ha! I absolutely DO NOT make it a habbit of handing MORE money over to a company that has failed to make good on what I have already purchased in the first place. "Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice...". Maybe if there where an option to buy a 1 month somewhere on Cryptic's site, maybe I'd give it a shot. But $60.00 to someone I don't currently have a reason to trust? Nope.

I have emailed TryMedia, Gamestop and opened a support ticket with Cryptic. As of right now NOT ONE of these companies have responded. Absolutely AWESOME customer focus.

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Q. I purchased a lifetime or 6-month subscription. Am I entitled to be in the head start?

A. You are only entitled to be in the head start if you pre-ordered your retail copy of the game from one of the retailers in the head start program. If you pre-ordered at Walmart and have a lifetime subscription, you won't be able to start playing until full release.


If that is true, how come I was able to log in last night? Is it actually intended for people with 6 mo or lifetime to be able to get in before they input a retail key?

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Didn't know about this thread. As I am spreading my rant as far and wide as Cryptic will tolerate on thier forums, might as well hit this as well, eh?

From another thread:

"Welp. Guess I'm a douche. I just pre-ordered, following the link from Cryptic's website that offered me the early-access program, through Gamestop and Try-not-to-fail-Media, and no key.

For those giving the ol' "buck up, it's not <insert company name>'s fault you waited so long, shoulda bought retail" lines of crap, I say this: As a consumer, who's business is sought after enough to spend thousands of dollars and man hours on sucking me in with hawt webpages and slickety prmotions, why at the moment that I have pledged my business and money must you utterly FAIL?!

It is absolutely ludicrous to imply that as consumers we should not hold the businesses that supposedly need us so vitally accountable when they fail to deliver. If we should not expect follow through on the promise, then it is a lie. A company that lies to you to obtain you business absolutely owes recompensation.

Cryptic owes for not caring enough on the day of thier big promotional launch to ensure that the content, ESPECIALLY content that will lead to a purchase, is accurate. This is supposed to be crunch-day for these guys, and nobody is at the wheel.

Gamestop owes for not being involved more in it's partner's practices. I work for a software company that runs an online business service as well. There is not a MINUTE that we do not know the happenings and dealings of our partners. If there is an issue impacting mutual customers we tend to know when, if not before the partner does.

And, finally, Try-but-FailMedia owes. Who the hell doesn't staff a 24/7 online downlaod game service......24/7?!!! I can't call these yuks when they have a hand in fekking up my purchase?! The email submittal says I will have a reply in "24-48 hours".......by monday. Awesome. Do they handle all launch promos with such urgency?

If you are a stinged consumer, remember: YOU ARE THE CONSUMER! Email and call EVERY ONE OF THESE ARSE-HOLES! Use EVERY MINUTE you would have used enjoying your purchase as promised to make an employee there as miserable, if not more than you are. You have the wallet, so you have the right!"

QFT.. and bump.. I'd be enjoying a lazy Saturday playing right now.. I know my buddy planned his weekend around having free time for it.

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QFT.. and bump.. I'd be enjoying a lazy Saturday playing right now.. I know my buddy planned his weekend around having free time for it.
Yeah. It's very disheartening. I'll cope, but hearing everyone's messed still kind of tee's everything off. I didn't have a problem waiting until Monday, but then I hear some D2D's are getting in just fine, then I hear some other preorders can't, yugh. It's just a big ole mess. :(

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I pre ordered the game on amazon.fr and I got by mail a key to get acess to the beta& and play the release game 3 days before the official launch.
But when I try to enter the code on cryptic web site, it's not working, it says "This key does not activate any known products."
Anyone has a clue on this issue ?
(I'm sorry if somebody already answered but there is so much posts that I still didn't find any answer)

Thanks
:)

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UPDATE

The score:

Cryptic: 1
Gamestop: 0
TryMedia: 0

Cryptic responded to my ticket about two hours ago with an appology and a replacement key. Good on ya, Cryptic! I would like to see them correct the links, if even for thier own sake of not having to handle so many coplaints.

Gamestop and TryMedia are still entirely mute.

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Is there anyway to confirm that our already made characters will for sure get stuff like the Level 0 flight? It would be nice to know, because I picked tunneling on one of my characters for his first travel power, under the assumption that I'll get that extra flight after the retail launch.

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UPDATE

The score:

Cryptic: 1
Gamestop: 0
TryMedia: 0

Cryptic responded to my ticket about two hours ago with an appology and a replacement key. Good on ya, Cryptic! I would like to see them correct the links, if even for thier own sake of not having to handle so many coplaints.

Gamestop and TryMedia are still entirely mute.

Thanks for pointing out that they are doing everything they can to assist.

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Oh go don't you love Gamestops crappy service making you late for the headtsart

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thanks for the great faq. now if only i had done a digital download through gamestop instead of d2d lol.:(

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I preordered from Best Buy online. I did not recieve any key in the confirmation email. Did I do this too late to get in on the head start? Was there a time limit I was unaware of?

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I preordered from Best Buy online. I did not recieve any key in the confirmation email. Did I do this too late to get in on the head start? Was there a time limit I was unaware of?

Did you buy both the game and the beta key/early access box? You actually had to put two separate items in the order to get the early access key. If you did that and still didn't get a key, contact Best Buy customer service. I did the in-store pickup, so I don't know exactly how they're working it with email, but that seems like the best approach.

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I played the open beta with a fileplanet subscription. If I buy a digital download preorder from Gamestop now, will it automatically send me a key for the head start?

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Just curious, anyone still able to get into this head start event by pre-ordering from gamestop or bestbuy? It seems like gamestop already took all the goodies away for pre-ordering.

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dude nice faq all my questions are gone now ty so much!:D

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Yeah, forget my previous post. Best Buy stopped allowing Beta/Head Start keys with preorders near the beginning of August. I canceled my preorder, bought the 6 month subscription, and am planning to buy the game in person on Tuesday.

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This thread has been great. Thank you for all the help. I just watned to let everyone know what I through as this might answer some questions.

I bought the pre-order through best buy online to have it shipped to me. Then I went to the best buy store and bought the $5 "beta card" that came in the same looking container as a video game. It was on the shelf right by where you would have bought champions online but it is only $5.

That package actually has the code in it. The only problem is so far everyone I've talked to at Best Buy has no clule. So if you can't find it on a shelf, go to another store. Game Stop did have them in stock, but I wanted the best buy pre order.

So I have the benefit of being able to download and run the game now and Best Buy is going to ship me the game when it releases. I'll get it in plenty of time and not have to go back to the store.

One warning, if you buy the beta code from best buy online they will only ship it to you vis SNAIL MAIL. So pre order the game online and then go buy the $5 code at the store.

Good luck!

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UPDATE

The score:

Cryptic: 1
Gamestop: 0
TryMedia: 0

Cryptic responded to my ticket about two hours ago with an appology and a replacement key. Good on ya, Cryptic! I would like to see them correct the links, if even for thier own sake of not having to handle so many coplaints.

Gamestop and TryMedia are still entirely mute. Score update:

Cryptic: 1
Gamestop: -1
TryMedia: 0

I finally got an email from Gamestop:

"Dear Customer, Thank you for contacting GameStop.com. The Bonus offer was removed from the website on Friday morning. Any orders placed after this time will not receive a head start code. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused you. If you have any other questions, please feel free to respond to this email. Best regards, Travis Customer Service Agent"

Nice. And, sadly, what I have come to expect.

My reply:

"So, cryptic responded in under 8 hours, and supplied me with a replacement code that correctly reflected the offer from their website.

You took almost twice as long, and provided me with a line basically solidifying your stance that you don't feel in any way responsible for your part of this debacle.

The sad thing is that your response is what I have come to expect. When presented with a chance to shine for your customers you squander that chance in favor of indifference that will not impact you.

Yes, I realize the misinformation was not on your site. Yet, it is still your responsibility to know of things that your partners are doing that may be impacting your customers.

You needn't worry. After your total lack of customer focus I will not be your customer. There are countless other, better services out there. Of note, your partner trymedia hasn't even responded to me. This would serve as an advisory to you, if I thought you cared. I guess they pretty much fall in line with your standards though."

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If that is true, how come I was able to log in last night? Is it actually intended for people with 6 mo or lifetime to be able to get in before they input a retail key?

I can get in also with my subscription.

But thats means I still need to buy the game right?

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The only thing I suggest you add is in regard to the mention of digital downloads. You should mention that GameStop is doing the Early Start where no other Digital Download U.S. retailers are. There is a mass confusion about Direct2Drive and this might avoid another thread about it.

I always wanted to do one big giant massive FAQ. But I just couldn't bring myself to after responding to the same threads over and over. I got burned out. :D

I just read this and decided to purchase the digital download from gamestop online so I could start playing NOW. Anyhow, I did but I didn't receive an activation code or anything. There was just a message confirming the purchase and telling me that a copy would be reserved for me tomorrow. Grrrr.....:mad:

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Well I wish i could say this was a fun experience...but sadly I can't

so I pre-order champions for me and my friend on game stop last Wednesday
I was excited to get my head start code in my email.
But to my surprise I find no code, i quickly call up my local gamestop.
They tell me to email gamestop for a new code.
I send an E-mail.
I get an email the next day sayin.
"In 48 hours we will send you an E-mail to confirm that you have purchased the game and you will get your code.
Lets skip to present day, no E-mail from either Cryptic or Gamestop and I just lost part of the pre-order bonus I was sposed to get along with my friend where he hasn't gotten any E-mails back.
Well Cryptic I love your game.....but really?

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I really appreciate the grace period. I am frustrated, the company just put my boxed copy in the mail yesterday and it is coming from the Uk. I ordered 10 days ago. I won't be able to play for a few days until it comes after Sunday.

I have my receipt. Is there a chance in hell I can file a ticket and get some help with this?