Best Buy is looking to make good with all the unfortunate souls who purchased an HD DVD player or accessory (be it the 360 HD DVD player or another product) before the format was officially declared kaput on February 23, 2008. The company will issue $50 gift cards to customers that fall in this unfortunate category According to CNN, many consumers won't even have to lift a finger to receive their gift cards as Best Buy is using Rewards Zone and service plan records as well as records from online purchases to identify eligible customers. Those who don't fall into those categories can bring a Best Buy receipt or credit card statement to their local store in order to receive their gift card. Best Buy will also begin accepting returns on all HD DVD players through their online trade-in center starting March 21, so long as said players are returned within 90 days of purchase. Returns will be refunded with store credit. Unfortunately, Best Buy isn't accepting returns on HD DVD discs.

[Via Joystiq]