Why pay full price? There are easy ways to save on video games that will allow you to stretch your gaming budget. Whether you play PC games, or you are more of a gaming console (Playstation, Xbox, Wii, etc) or you prefer handheld systems, these tips will help you to get a discount on the games you, or your kids, want.
Over 10 Ways To Save On Video Games
Buy refurbished or used games: In store or online, used games are almost always just as good as brand new. On occasion you will buy one with scratches that won’t work well, but if you buy from reputable sellers online or in store that won’t be an issue. Many of these that are refurbished or like new in major stores have been played by game testers and only used 1-2 times.
Gaming specific stores: There are tons of different chain gaming stores, as well as smaller local stores. Almost all of them offer an exchange program or at minimum area to buy used games. You can often exchange your used games you no longer want for in store credit for new or used product. If you don’t want to exchange, you can simply shop the used game area for better deals. You may also ask about rewards programs in store that earn you extra credit for each purchase made.
Coupon and Deal sites: There is lots of websites that have a sole purpose of helping readers to find ways to save money. These sites share deals for all types of merchandise, but video games are one of the main categories. If you have the time, looking for discounts through their deal databases or searching forums on sites like Slickdeals, fatwallet, Brad’s Deals, or DealNews can be a great resource.
Shop eBay/Craigslist: Both eBay and Craigslist can be excellent for saving on video game purchases. Both typically are for used games, without a warranty. The best bang for your buck can often be on bulk purchases (an assortment of multiple games someone is selling).
Shop pawnshops: A little known place to pick up used and even new video games is to head to your local pawn shop. Many pawn shops will buy and sell not only video game systems, but the video games that go with them. You can sometimes find great games that are gently used for well under $10 at your local pawn shop.
Pre-Order: Pre-ordering video games almost always means some sort of discount and/or special features, upgrades, or gifts with your purchase. Call your local game stores and look online for the best prices.
Shop Amazon: Amazon is a great online retailer for many reasons, but one of the best is the competitive pricing on video games. You will almost always find the best possible price on video games there versus in store or at other online retailers. Especially with brand new games. See a great price on Amazon, but want it right NOW? Some retailers, like Target, have started price matching based on Amazon’s online price. Also, utilizing a price tracker like CamelCamelCamel can help you to keep a watch on a certain game and it will alert you when the price drops.
Start Up Games: Sometimes, before a PC game is fully released, you can get in on the early release of a game for a lower price. While these games could be glitchy or having other issues, it’s a great way to support game developers and fund the development of a game that you have a strong interest in…while saving yourself money. For example, you might pay $10 or $20 for a game in the early release, but they may offer the final version game at no additional cost. Be sure to read the details before committing.
Major Sales: Here’s another great way to save if you or your kids are into PC games. At least twice a year, Steam holds major sales, where you can get PC games for up to 75% off. The best times to watch for a Steam sale is during the summer and after Christmas.
EA’s On the House PC Games: Another one for PC gamers is to watching for EA’s “On the House” game downloads. All you’ll need to do is register for a free Origin account and download the full version game they are currently offering. These free games are only available for a short time, but once you download, the title is yours forever. Currently (February 2016), they are offering Need for Speed™ Most Wanted, but in the past they also offered Jade Empire, Dead Space, and Plants vs. Zombies. Additionally, they offer other free games and Origin Access which is an all-you-can-play PC gamer membership for $4.99 per month.
InvisibleHand: If you do a lot of your video game shopping online, the InvisibleHand browser plugin is a huge help for saving money. You can install the plugin and it will alert you if the video game you are browsing is offered for a lower price elsewhere. It even works with Google when you are googling for a certain game.
These easy ways to save on video game purchases are simple to accomplish. Just do a bit of research in your local area and start checking prices. Video games are an investment that is worth the cost for most families. For $20-$30 you can buy a new or gently used game that will last your family months of play time.
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