Saving Money on Video Games

Video game systems are expensive, but adding games to play with the system really breaks the budget. There really isn't a way to avoid the cost without avoiding video games completely, but there are ways to lighten the burden.

Patience

Games hit the stores for $60 apiece or more. Have patience and wait until the game is no longer new. Then, look for sales and other markdowns. Check your budget stores for bulk bins of games; real deals can be found there.

Beware of games that coincide with current movie releases. These games sell for $40 (if you're lucky) during their release month, but once the movies leave the theaters the games tend to drop in price.

Keep an eye out for games online at eBay and Amazon.com. Like-new games can be found for half price on these sites if they're watched carefully. Don't get wrapped up in the bidding war, though. Have patience.

Think Used

Used games aren't so bad. Many are gently used, having been played only a few times. Check for games that are guaranteed against scratches and defects. Some stores buy used games and resell them; these could offer great savings. Used games might be an avenue towards trading games you rarely play for new games. Watch the resale value, however. Often it's not worth the effort to trade in the game.

A Game Group

Find some friends who have similar gaming interests. Then, set up a plan to rotate games. With everyone's dedication, a system can be set up between three or more people. Agree to take turns buying the newest games or ante up and buy the game together. Then, set up a gaming schedule and rotate the game, like a library.

Another option is to find a few campus friends who enjoy gaming and set up a gaming library amongst you. Care for one another's games and keep them moving, defining a set place for the library to be housed.

Rent Them

Check into online video game rental clubs. Some work like online video rental programs such as Netflix. Subscribe to the monthly club and get new games, play them, return them, and enjoy them for less! Look into www.gamefly.com for more information.

Editor's Note: Do you have any tips for saving money on video games? Post them here!

About The Author: Kelly Ann Butterbaugh is a freelance writer who regularly contributes to a variety of magazines and has written a history book for middle readers. Visit her website for writing help, lesson plans, history fun, or work for hire at http://www.kellybutterbaugh.com

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By 11/29/2009

Hit your local pawn shops. I can't tell you how many times I've bought games that are only a few weeks old for much much less than retail. I'd also recommend hitting Blockbuster when they have buy one get one free sales or 1/2 price used games. I'd also consider buying games that you know will trade in for much higher than what you paid for them at the bigger gaming stores. Video Game flipping is one of the easiest things in the world to do to get trade credit for games at one of the big game stores. Also, instead of trading those games in, try craigslist. Many times if you beat a game in just a few days, you can still garner $40-50 for it used off CL. Be forewarned though, deal only in cash and meet in public places to keep yourself safe.

By 11/24/2009

My son trades his older games xbox 360 games for a new game, at the local game store. Saving him money and he gets rid of his no longer favourite games.