Introduction:
Is the local game demo station your second home? Are you splurging on gaming magazines just for the free demo discs? Has your budget for the latest Video games pushed you to eating instant noodles more than you’d like to admit? If this sounds familiar, don’t worry. It’s possible to enjoy gaming without breaking the bank. This guide will show you practical ways to save money when buying video games, so you can keep your gaming spirit alive without draining your wallet.
1. Skip Physical Retail Stores
One of the most expensive ways to buy Video games is from local retail stores. Even when stores advertise discounts or offer member-only deals, the prices are often still higher than you’d find online. The exception might be for those special clearance sales, but they’re rare and unpredictable.
If you really must buy from a physical store, go for the pre-owned section. Pre-owned games are usually cheaper, about 20% less than new versions, and most stores ensure that these Video games are in decent condition. Before purchasing, inspect the game case to ensure that it includes the manuals, and check the disc for any scratches or signs of wear.
2. Look for Deals Online
Online shopping is the ultimate money-saver for gamers. Platforms like eBay offer a range of used games that are often cheaper than the pre-owned options in stores. When browsing, aim for game bundles that include 10 to 50 titles. These bundles typically have a better price-per-game value. You can keep the games you’re most interested in and resell the others to recoup some of your money. This approach not only saves money but also makes it easier to build your gaming library without spending excessively.
When using eBay, consider using PayPal as your payment method. PayPal often issues coupons that can be used on purchases, and these coupons can save you an extra 5–10%. Keep an eye on eBay’s monthly newsletters for these promotional codes.
In addition to eBay, there are price comparison sites such as price grabber and deal rush. These sites showcase weekly deals from big retailers and update their listings daily, so you don’t have to rely solely on weekend flyers. For those willing to dig a bit deeper, gaming forums like cheapass gamer provide opportunities to buy used Video games directly from other members. Just make sure the member you’re dealing with has a solid iTrader or trust rating to avoid scams.
3. Wait for Price Drops
One of the smartest moves a gamer can make is to wait. Game prices, especially for new releases, tend to drop significantly within four to six months. While it might be tempting to buy the latest title the day it comes out, patience pays off. Besides saving money, this waiting period allows you to read user reviews and see how the game holds up in terms of bugs, updates, and general player satisfaction. You’ll make a more informed purchase and avoid spending top dollar on a game that might disappoint.
4. Embrace Rentals
Renting Video games is an underrated money-saving tactic. Renting is inexpensive and gives you the chance to try out new releases without committing to buying them. Most major rental services stock new titles within two weeks of their release, and rentals typically range from $4 to $8 per game. This is an ideal option if you want to play through the main storyline of a game but don’t necessarily need to own it.
Renting can also help you decide if a game is worth buying when the price drops. If a game doesn’t live up to your expectations, you’ll be glad you didn’t spend $60 or more on it. Additionally, some rental services offer membership plans where you can rent multiple games per month for a fixed price. This can be an affordable way to test several new games without the hefty price tag.
5. Trade and Sell Your Games
As a budget-conscious gamer, building a permanent collection can drain your finances, especially with new releases. Instead, make a habit of selling games once you’ve completed them. New releases often lose their value quickly, so selling them soon after finishing is the best way to maximize your return. Platforms like eBay, local buy/sell groups, and gaming forums are excellent places to sell your used games.
For those who occasionally want to revisit a game or play with friends, consider renting instead of rebuying. This strategy ensures that you’ll have money to spend on new Video games and keeps your gaming experience fresh without hoarding games that collect dust.
6. Take Advantage of Sales and Promotions
Keep an eye out for seasonal sales and promotions. Major retailers and online stores often have sales during holidays, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and end-of-year events. These sales can lead to significant savings on new and pre-owned games, consoles, and accessories.
Some websites, such as Humble Bundle, offer game bundles where you can pay what you want and still receive great titles. Plus, part of your payment often goes to charity, so it’s a win-win. Another tip is to sign up for newsletters from gaming retailers. These emails often include exclusive discounts, early sale notifications, and coupon codes.
7. Utilize Free Game Platforms and Trials
For gamers who aren’t picky, there are free games available on various platforms. Services like Steam, Epic Games Store, and even PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass regularly offer free games as part of their promotions. Signing up for these services and checking their free game offerings can significantly expand your game library at no cost.
Many developers also release trial versions of Video games or beta versions that you can play for free. While these versions might have limitations, they can provide hours of entertainment and help you decide if a full purchase is worth it.
Conclusion: Gaming doesn’t have to come at the expense of your wallet. By skipping physical retailers, searching for online deals, being patient for price drops, renting instead of buying, and taking advantage of sales and promotions, you can enjoy a rich gaming experience while saving money. Being resourceful, selling games you’re done with, and keeping an eye on freebies can also go a long way in making sure your passion for gaming stays affordable.
Keywords:
Xbox360, PS3, Wii
Article Body:
Is the local retailer’s game testing system becoming your primary console? Have you resorted to subscribing to game magazines just to play the included demos? Are you having to go on a forced Ready Rice diet because you can not afford to buy the latest games? Now you don’t have to, in this article we will examine ways for consumers to save money when purchasing video games.