Microsoft allows Game developers to sell games on a pre-order basis so that the games can play on day one when they become available. While many are available in general, customers with subscription services like Xbox Game Pass have early access to the game when they pre-order it. However, some users occasionally receive an Xbox Game Pre-ordered Cancelled message. PC gamers have also experienced the same. This post look at the possible reasons why the Xbox or PC Pre-order game was canceled and what you can do about it.
How do pre-orders work on Xbox and Windows Store?
It’s essential to understand how the pre-order works. According to Microsoft, they only charge approximately ten days before the release date. So when you pre-order, the amount is blocked on the card but not charged. Your payment method must work as expected when Microsoft is ready to charge the amount.
Why was My Xbox/PC Pre-order Game Cancelled?
Now that you know how pre-order works, if you received an email about its cancellation, here are a few things to check.
1] Check if you were charged
Sometimes it’s a temporary glitch, and if there is a delay in payment confirmation, things can get stuck. When the game launches, you can play it after receiving an email to your billing account verifying that the final card payment was collected correctly.
It is best to check your order history for successful proof of purchase to confirm that a pre-order was charged and the game was added to your game library.
If you don’t see any confirmation, it’s best to contact the support with proof of the purchases and ask them to resolve the issue.
2] Was the payment declined?
Microsoft makes two attempts before the cancellation. If the credit card has expired, is blocked by the bank, has incorrect information, or doesn’t have enough balance, then that could be why the pre-order was canceled. You can also check with your bank about it.
Related: Troubleshoot Microsoft Account payment issues and problems
Xbox pre-orders that were canceled can only be fixed by checking your payment information. Before placing an order, double-check; if there is a problem, you can amend it within a few days. Otherwise, the order will be canceled, and you will lose all your discounts and offers on the game.
So, if your pre-order is canceled, you cannot do anything about it. You will need to repurchase the game on the offer that is available for everyone. However, if you figure out the issue, you will not face any problems in the following order.
How does Pre-Order work with Credit Cards?
This means that to prevent any billing complications, you must have a valid payment option on your account at least ten days before the release of a game. After a charge on your account has failed for a pre-order, there will be another attempt at a charge a few days later. Your pre-order will be canceled if the second attempt to charge is unsuccessful, and you will have to buy the chosen game again after adding a reliable payment method to your account.
How does Pre-Order work with Credit in your account?
Credit is like a pre-paid balance in your account. Microsoft allows you to pay fully or partially when you use the credits.
When you pre-order, the amount will be deducted immediately from the credit, i.e., if you pre-ordered your game using account credit. The remaining balance will be deducted from your credit card if your account balance is less than the sum you approved for pre-order billing. In this scenario, the process is the same. You will be charged for the rest of the amount around ten days before the game’s release.
How to Pre-order Games from Microsoft Store
When you find the game listing, click on the Pre-order button, and buy it. It works the same way as buying any game. The price of the game is listed on the pre-order button, so you know how much you will be charged when the game is released.
How to cancel an Order or Pre-order from Microsoft Store
If you change your mind and want to cancel your pre-order, log into your Microsoft account, visit your order history page, and cancel your pre-order up to 10 days before the game launches. You might be billed after this point. You can also cancel after this point, but you will have to raise a request to get a refund.
