If you’re a gaming fan, then you know that this hobby can be quite costly. The newest consoles will set you back at least $400, and games can cost $70 or more each. But there are some ways you can save money on video games. For instance, subscribe to a game streaming service or sign up for a loyalty rewards program.
Subscriptions
After a decade of fierce competition that kept prices low, subscriptions have been creeping up. The costs of services like Netflix, Amazon Prime and even gym memberships are rising, as are the cost of utilities, food and fuel.
This means that millions of households are looking for easy swaps to cut back on spending – and one of the first things they may consider is cutting back on some online subscriptions that aren’t being used. For gaming fans, this might mean re-evaluating some games they’re paying for and trying other options.
Renting games, for instance, can save money and give gamers a chance to try out titles before deciding whether or not they want to buy them. It can also be worth signing up for a gaming subscription service and loyalty rewards program, where gamers can enjoy a huge library of games for a low monthly price. It’s always worth looking at all the subscriptions you’re paying for – whether it’s your favorite streaming service, a website or an app.
A few dollars here and there might not seem like much, but when you consider how much these add up over time, it’s important to know exactly what you’re spending your money on. You can easily make this easier by using the same card for all your subscriptions to see recurring charges on your monthly bank statement.
Free Games
Gamers can easily rack up large bills without even realizing it, especially with equipment prices and hidden subscription costs. They continue to enjoy their favorite hobby but must find ways to save when possible.
One easy way to do this is by taking advantage of free games. Many online game storefronts and console gaming services offer a selection of titles at no cost. This is a great option for gamers who want to avoid buying a title they may not like but still want to enjoy some video games.
Another option is to take advantage of sales and discounts on new and old games. Game prices drop significantly after a few months, and it can be easy to find some of the classics for cheap. Likewise, indie games often offer unique and innovative gaming experiences at lower price points than big-budget AAA releases.
Finally, gamers can also look to second-hand stores and online marketplaces for deals on game consoles and used games. Often, these games are in good condition and can be purchased for much less than a brand-new copy of the same title. In addition, several game bundles on platforms offer multiple games at a discounted rate.
Physical Discs
While the video gaming industry is shifting to digital, many gamers still buy physical games. Those who do are often surprised to find that purchasing their games in this manner can save them money. There are a few reasons that gamers buy physical games.
First, they take up space. The average game disc is an inch thick and can occupy significant shelf real estate. This is a problem for gamers living in small homes or apartments with limited storage. In addition, the environment is also impacted by game discs and boxes as they are manufactured and transported from one end of the world to the other.
Another reason that some gamers prefer physical copies of their games is that they can sell or trade them when they’re done playing. This isn’t an option with digital games. A physical match could become a collector’s item and be worth significantly more years later than when you purchased it.
If you’re a die-hard fan of physical games, look into online stores like CD Keys. These sites offer digital codes for games and top-up cards, and they’re typically much cheaper than the prices you’ll find in a store or at a supermarket. In addition, these websites usually offer free shipping.
Console & PC Gaming
Video games are a fun hobby that can also be very expensive. But with a few smart strategies, you can enjoy video gaming without paying top dollar. If you’re a console gamer, try renting games instead of buying them. If you are still looking for a rental option, some stores sell preowned games tested for quality, usually priced much lower than new ones. This is a great way to test out a new game or genre without spending too much money on it.
For PC gamers, it’s best to stick with older systems to save money. While PCs can run many games, they are pricier than consoles. There’s also more to a gaming setup than just the system, such as a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and headset for multiplayer gaming. Try repurposing old equipment you no longer use, such as an old display or keyboard, to reduce the cost of your setup. For those looking to upgrade their systems, try waiting until the next generation of consoles hits.
