[Macha]

Why do games get an exemption?

If I buy a power tool, use it for a project, then return it, surely that's as open to abuse?

Games retailers should utilise the same tools as others - don't sell to people you think are abusing your return system.

[shkkmo]

Most hardware stores in the USA require tools to be unopened/unused to be returned.

Most retailers are pretty restrictive and those that aren't, such as REI, have generally been notable for those policies.

In my mind, software return policies should be more liberal than physical goods since there isn't any potential loss to the retailer due to damage.

[asciimike]

Even REI has had to change policy in recent years due to what some may call "abusing the policy", e.g. https://www.rei.com/conversations/ask-an-rei-employee/return...