With prices exceeding $40 or $50 for a console game, it might be time to evaluate your budget in this area. Even if you play games occasionally, the cost of a new console, accessories, and games every once in a while can overshadow other areas. Here are some tips to help you realize some savings with games.
Do You Need to Buy Every Game?
If you do the simple math, the price of games can certainly add up quickly. A study in the U.S. found that the “average gamer” spends $700 a year on games and software. You can only imagine what that money can do in a conservative budget.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with buying a video game. Just like anything else in life – such as eating out – investing in hobbies works in moderation, especially if you have any hope of saving money. In other words, don’t buy every enticing game.
One of the best tips is to take advantage of the ability to rent games. Some stores may offer discounted prices on rentals; other retail outlets like GameGuys allow you to pay a flat fee to use a rental for as long as you like.
You may just want to limit yourself to games that you will play for a long time. For those new and exciting shooting games that you’ll get sick of quickly – rent it.
Some games are released as apps. These apps are then modded and sometimes they are available for free. You can download mods apk to use on your android smartphone!
Deals on Video Games
What are two of the best times to purchase a game?
-
Before the game is on the market
It isn’t uncommon to find a video game on sale before it hits stores. Most common, with some game manufacturers, is a credit for a certain amount that you receive if you purchase the game (usually at list price). Check with your local gaming store or online retailers.
-
Several months after release
After some time, the game you’ve had your eye on will dip in price. It’s inevitable, and it can happen after several months on the market. Yes, you might not get to play it when it’s released, but you can get it for a fraction of the price.
An article in itself could be written on ways to get great deals on video games. From sales to purchasing used games – which is always a good idea – you might not have to sacrifice much to save on the games you love.
Ditch the Console
Indeed, ditching the console – or, at least using other options in conjunction with it – can save you money across the board. There are a lot of different platforms that offer gaming options that you can explore:
- Computer games
- Free online games
- Handheld platforms
- Games on your smartphone
There is plenty to explore, indeed. While some free online games and other might not offer what console games can, there is still much value to options like these. You also can’t discount computer games, which can approach console games and quality; 3D and HD gaming are even available on smartphones.
From HD iPad games to renting and buying used console games, you can save money. No matter how you save some cash on games, plan and keep track of items on your budget.
Be the first to comment