10 Ways To Save Money On Video Games 2024 [Smart Gaming Tips]

Gaming is a hobby that can drain your wallet faster than you can say "respawn." When you're putting together your ultimate gaming rig, complete with the latest and greatest graphics card and processor, prepare to shell out nearly two grand.

Of course, you can always opt for a less expensive gaming laptop or home console, but even then, you'll still be forking over around $60 to $70 for each game, and that's not even factoring in any additional downloadable content.

But fear not, my fellow budget-conscious gamers. There are ways to get your gaming fix without breaking the bank. Some of the hottest online multiplayer titles are absolutely free to play, as are some popular esports games.

However, for everything else, you'll have to open up that wallet. The good news is I've got some tricks up my sleeve to help ease the financial burden.

10 Clever Techniques To Save Money On Video Games In 2024

By implementing a few smart techniques, you can significantly reduce the cost of your gaming hobby without compromising on the fun and excitement.

These strategies will help you save money on video games, ensuring your passion remains both enjoyable and affordable.

1. Stop your subscription if you don't need it.

Many gamers, particularly those who utilize multiple consoles, often overlook the fact that they have monthly subscriptions active on more than one device.

It's crucial to make a point of identifying the subscriptions that are being regularly used. If there's a console that isn't used as frequently, now might be the right moment to cancel that subscription and consider resubscribing at a later time.

2. Try changing the region

Did you know that the price of a gaming service and even the size of gaming discounts depends on your location? The standard of living in a country directly affects the price of games. That is, if you can change your location, you will get better prices on Steam sales during regular periods of time.

All you need is a VPN for gaming that can bypass regional restrictions. VeePN does this well. Discounts and discrimination based on location are common practices that you can see in almost all game stores.

Try to find a cheaper country and change the IP address to that. You will also need payment instruments from that country, but you can use international systems like Wise, Revolut, and PayPal.

Also Read: How To Choose And Use A VPN For Gaming? [Guide & Tips]

3. Make the most of your subscription

You should check out the game library at the beginning of each month when you have a subscription. These services provide access to a vast library of games for a flat monthly fee.

They are a fantastic option for gamers who want to try a wide variety of titles without having to buy each one individually.

Additionally, some subscriptions offer in-game rewards, depending on the subscription. Take the time to research your console and discover what it has to offer.

4. Purchase Games During Sales Events (like Steam Sales or Black Friday)

Purchasing games during sales events, such as the renowned Steam Sales or the eagerly awaited Black Friday deals, is a savvy strategy for gamers looking to save money.

These events often feature a plethora of games, ranging from the latest blockbusters to indie gems, at significantly reduced prices.

Steam Sales, known for its seasonal offerings, provide an opportunity for gamers to explore a wide array of titles at a fraction of the cost.

Similarly, Black Friday, a global shopping phenomenon, sees retailers slashing prices on games and gaming accessories, making it an ideal time to stock up on titles that have been on your wishlist.

With free VPN for online, you can see more local sales in some regions. Steam sometimes runs sales in honor of local events and you can take advantage of this.

By strategically planning purchases around these sales events, gamers can not only enhance their collection but do so in a budget-friendly manner, ensuring they get the most out of every dollar spent.

5. Subscribe to gaming services with monthly fees for access to a library of games (e.g., Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus).

Subscribing to gaming services with monthly fees, such as Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Plus, is an increasingly popular way to save money while still enjoying a diverse range of video games.

These services operate on a subscription model, offering access to a vast library of games for a fixed monthly fee, much like Netflix for video games.

With Xbox Game Pass, subscribers can delve into a wide array of titles across different genres and platforms, including many new releases.

PlayStation Plus, on the other hand, not only provides a selection of free games each month but also includes additional perks like exclusive discounts and online multiplayer access.

These subscriptions are particularly cost-effective for avid gamers, as they eliminate the need for frequent individual purchases.

6. Free-to-play games

Not having to spend anything at all is one of the simplest ways to save money on video games. Numerous highly regarded games, ranging across different genres, are free to play.

These include popular titles like Fortnite, Dota 2, Apex Legends, and Call of Duty: Warzone. Keep in mind that all the mentioned games require a stable Internet connection for optimal enjoyment.

Additionally, exercise caution with games that are only partially free. While most free games offer optional microtransactions for cosmetic items, there are free-to-play games like Destiny 2 and World of Warcraft that restrict progress beyond a certain point, necessitating the purchase of expansions or a subscription.

Also Read: The 50 Best Multiplayer Games of All Time (Fun for Everyone)

7. Buy pre-owned or second-hand games.

Buying pre-owned or second-hand games is an excellent cost-saving measure for gamers. This approach is not only lighter on the wallet but also environmentally friendly, as it promotes the recycling of products.

Many local and online stores offer a wide range of used games, often in excellent condition, at a fraction of the cost of new copies.

These second-hand games, spanning various genres and platforms, provide an affordable way for gamers to experience titles they may have missed at their initial release.

Purchasing pre-owned games can sometimes include rare or out-of-print titles, adding unique items to a gamer’s collection. This method is particularly beneficial for those who are not concerned with owning the latest releases or collecting games in mint condition.

8. Buy bundle

You can save money on various goods by purchasing them in bulk, so why not apply the same approach to games? A good starting point is Humble Bundle, which offers bundles of games, comics, software, and more where you can choose what you want to pay while supporting charity.

Humble Bundle regularly updates its bundles, allowing you to get new games at a low price if you time it right.

Other websites like Fanatical, IndieGala, and Itch.io also offer weekly or monthly bundle deals to help you save money on a wider range of games. Additionally, you might find some great deals on GOG or Steam.

9. Wait for price drops after initial release

Waiting for price drops after a game's initial release is a smart and effective way to save money on video games. Most new games are released at a premium price, reflecting the peak of their market demand. However, as time passes, these prices often drop significantly.

This reduction can be due to several factors, such as the release of newer games, seasonal sales, or the game's transition to a less newsworthy state. By practicing patience and waiting a few months, gamers can take advantage of these price drops.

This wait not only allows for significant savings but also offers the added benefit of reading comprehensive reviews and player feedback, ensuring the game is a worthy investment. Furthermore, this approach often coincides with updates and bug fixes, providing a smoother gaming experience.

10. Participate in beta testing or early access programs

Participating in beta testing or early access programs is another savvy strategy for saving money on video games. Many game developers offer early access to games, either for free or at a reduced cost, in exchange for feedback and testing.

This not only allows gamers to experience new games before their official release but often includes future discounts on the full version or free upgrades to the final release. Beta testing can also be entirely free, providing an opportunity to play new games without any financial outlay.

Engaging in these programs benefits both the gamer, who gets early and often cheaper access and the developers, who receive valuable feedback to refine the game.

It's a win-win scenario where gamers can indulge in their passion while contributing to the game's development process, all while keeping their gaming budget in check.

FAQs About Saving Money On Video Games

Conclusion

It's not cheap to be a gamer, especially now when a game can cost around $50. At the same time, there are quite a lot of game events and ways to save if you don't want to spend too much.

Sometimes, you have to wait, and sometimes, you have to outwit the service or immediately invest a large amount when purchasing as a set. In the long run, you will save a lot of money if you trust these tips.