[Semaphor]

So there is a part where the US has stronger consumer protection laws than Germany? Interesting.

Besides that, why are digital goods pre-orders seemingly allowed?

[InclinedPlane]

If something has a well-defined shipping date then pre-orders are allowed. This is one reason why you can buy tickets to events well in advance.

[Semaphor]

Ah, thanks that explains it. Different in Europe though.

[andyhmltn]

If you're referring to stuff like iTunes then pre-orders, you aren't actually charged until the day it releases

[Semaphor]

Steam pre-orders was mainly what I was referring to. I've seen a lot of other pre-orders but I'm not sure they were U.S. based.