1. Price Tracking
As a gamer, it is important that you find your favorite games for the best price. This way, you’ll have more to spend on other things that you may want or need.
By using online tools that track the prices of games across different platforms, you can identify trends that will let you know the best time to make purchases. You can also set price tracking tools to alert you during price drops or sales.
2. Taking Advantage of Sales / Promotions
Patience is a key factor when it comes to wanting the lowest prices for products. Regularly, many digital platforms along with other physical retailers will regularly host sales events.
Take ‘Black Friday’ for example. If you really want to spend as little as possible on a game, especially if it has just been released and is currently at its peak price, you will most likely want to wait until then to buy it. Yes, it can be a bit of a wait, but in the long run, you can find the game you want for up to 70% off.
3. Bundles and Package Deals
One way to find the best deals is to search for game bundles or special editions that include additional content. Things like expansions, DLCs, and more are likely to be found on sale with the base game during holidays or other sales events during the year.
Not only do they offer multiple games or additional in-game items. You will also find that overall buying these bundles will be cheaper than if you were to buy each item on their own.
4. Explore Different Retailers
Limiting yourself to only a single retail or platform will not get you the prices you may want. Prices for the same items can vary across stores.
By checking in-person and online across different stores, you may find a cheaper or better deal on what it is you’re looking for. Comparing prices and taking advantage of possible sales.
5. Buying Secondhand or Pre-Owned Games
Stores like GameStop and other popular retailers often offer discount prices for games that have already been opened/played. Making the game more affordable than buying the game brand new.
You can buy either physical copies or you can also make purchases in online marketplaces for pre-owned digital game licenses. Though, if you do this, always make sure that the game’s condition is still satisfactory. Make yourself aware of any potential limitations before making your purchase.
6. Buy Older Titles
Over time, prices for games will decrease the older they get. This can provide a budget-friendly option when you’re in search of something new to pass the time with.
This isn’t the only benefit. Older games have usually undergone tons of updates and patches resulting in a complete fun to play game with little to no bugs. Giving you an experience worth the money spent.
7. Free Trials
Say one of your favorite game series released a brand new addition. Sometimes there will be the option to play some of the game with no expense to you.
This will allow you to explore the game’s mechanics, graphics, and overall gameplay. All without having to commit financially.
8. Start a Subscription
Take the Xbox game pass for example. Most platforms offer gaming subscription services that offer a library full of games. All for only a small fixed monthly fee.
This provides an abundance of options for you. Providing cost-effective access to a (seemingly) endless amount of games you can play for around $12.99 a month.
9. Following Developers / Publishers
It’s always a good idea to follow your favorite game developers and publishers if you want to find ways to save. You can follow them through multiple social media platforms.
By doing this you will be able to view what they post and be notified if their games go on sale. Or if there are any special giveaway events that you could possibly enter.
10. Pre-Order Discounts
Retailers often offer discounts for those who wish to pre-order a game. Granting early access and allowing you to start playing before the game’s official release dates.
This can help you save; especially if the game's price is expected to rise post-launch. Securing the title at a lower rate.
