Amazon now selling certain games exclusively to Prime members (update)

Amazon has locked certain big games behind its Prime membership, making non-members unable to purchase copies directly from the online retailer.

Attempts to purchase Grand Theft Auto 5 (on PlayStation 4) and Fallout 4 (on Windows PC) are met with a box labeled "Exclusively for Prime Members." Instead of a button to buy the games, non-subscribers are invited to join Amazon Prime instead.

Both games' store listings claim that they are "currently reserved exclusively for Prime members." Non-members are able to buy copies of the games from other sellers, but not directly from Amazon.com.

Customers have voiced complaints about certain items being locked behind Prime subscriptions since 2014. Making two major game releases, however, seems to be the most notable example of the policy.

Amazon Prime already offers a discount on popular games. Earlier this year, the company launched a 20 percent discount on all pre-orders and new game releases. Only Prime subscribers, who pay an annual fee of $99, are entitled to the discount.

Earlier this week, Amazon Prime announced monthly subscription options. For the increased shipping rates, discounts and other exclusive features, customers can pay $10.99. A subscription to stream Amazon Prime Video without any of the other membership benefits costs $8.99.

We've reached out to Amazon for comment about the member-exclusive games — and whether more games will be included.

Update: In an email to Polygon, an Amazon representative wrote, "From time to time, Amazon offers exclusive selection and pricing on select items for Prime members. Customers who are not Prime members can sign-up for a 30-day free trial of Amazon Prime to benefit from these exclusive prices or they can purchase these items or similar products from third party sellers often fulfilled and shipped by Amazon."

We've asked for clarification about the length of the exclusivity period and how titles are selected. We'll update with Amazon's response accordingly.