Feb 20, 2012 Update: Given how much money GameStop likes to rake in from the sales of used games, Raines better hope that the next Xbox's possible blocking of used games doesn't become a reality. If it does, he drops. For now, it's unconfirmed.
Why He's Powerful
Nobody's saying video game retail is fun. But there's only a single real dedicated gaming brick-and-morter chair left, and that's Gamestop, helmed by the relatively green Raines.
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Although GameStop has struggled to remain relevant as gamers increasingly avail themselves of online distribution platforms, Raines is slowly stockpiling digital distribution into Gamestop's arsenal. And never forget that Gamestop owns Game Informer, the last remaining print magazine with serious clout in the industry.