The infamous stapler used by GameStop that ruined Switch 2 launch day for some customers has now been put up for auction.
As we reported previously, one retail store in New York was stapling customers’ receipts to the console’s packaging, damaging screens in the process.
Now – in an offer of goodwill, but also something of a publicity stunt – GameStop has put the stapler up for auction on eBay, with proceeds benefitting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals is a charity founded over 40 years ago, and has raised over $9bn for 170 children’s hospitals.
The stapler is being offered alongside a Switch 2 console and a certificate of authenticity for the bundle.
Reads the certificate: “The black stapler used by a GameStop associate who, in a moment of launch night excitement and misjudged enthusiasm, stapled a receipt directly to a customer’s new Nintendo Switch 2 box – puncturing both cardboard and screen in one swift motion. Features authentic field-use wear throughout and retired immediately from service, the stapler now stands as a retail legend born from a half-second decision.”
The included console is also the first to be stapled, though GameStop assures the screen has been repaired. It will arrive in the original, stapled packaging, and also include the actual staple “carefully extracted and preserved”.
As per eBay, the item is in “used” condition: “The item may have some signs of cosmetic wear, but is fully operational and functions as intended.” At the time of writing, the auction stands at almost $109K, with another six days until it ends.
Following the launch day incident, GameStop stated staplers “have been confiscated” and that their use was “isolated to one store”.
Despite this stapling incident, the Switch 2 launch was a success for Nintendo. With 3.5m units sold worldwide in its first four days on sale, it’s the fastest-selling piece of Nintendo hardware ever.
And if children are unable to afford a Switch 2, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa stated there are plenty of other ways for them to engage with Nintendo characters.