Gaming can be an enjoyable yet expensive pastime. Constructing a gaming rig with the latest graphics card and processor could set you back a substantial sum, nearly two grand. Alternatively, opting for a more affordable gaming laptop or home console is an option, but keep in mind that the games themselves range from $60 to $70, excluding additional downloadable content.
Luckily, there exist ways to indulge in gaming without breaking the bank. Many popular online multiplayer and eSports titles are free to play. However, for other games, you will need to make a purchase. The good news is that there are strategies for saving money on games.
#1 Analyze QProposals
Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo frequently offer discounts on their digital storefronts, as do platforms like Steam, GOG, and Itch.io. Make sure to check back frequently to find great deals, or add items to your wishlist to receive notifications when they go on sale. Steam and many other stores also have larger seasonal sales that provide the biggest discounts.
If you prefer a more convenient option, IsThereAnyDeal is a website that aggregates sales across the internet and displays the cheapest prices available at any given moment. Additionally, some of the best deals can be found on digital storefronts like Fanatical, Green Man Gaming, and IndieGala which sell Steam keys. On Reddit’s r/GameDeals, users vote for the top deals, ensuring they are featured prominently.
#2 Get a PS Plus Subscription
Most PS4 and PS5 owners are likely familiar with PlayStation Plus. This paid service primarily offers online multiplayer features, but it also grants access to three to five free games each month. However, to enjoy these games, you must maintain a monthly PS Plus subscription worth $9.99 (£6.99). In the past, noteworthy titles like Star Wars: Squadrons, Mortal Kombat X, Hitman 2, and Battlefield V have been featured.
Remember that the game selection changes monthly. Even if you’re unsure about playing the free games right away, it’s advised to claim them anyway. This ensures the option to download and enjoy them at a later date.
Did you know that you can buy PS Plus cheaper if you use a VPN for PS5? With PS4 and PS5 VPN, you can change your location and get games cheaper, as well as buy a cheaper subscription. PS4 and PS5 VPNs are also useful in terms of security and anonymity. Flagship VPNs like VeePN can protect against most hacker attacks and prevent data interception.
#3 Pay Attention to the “Cheaper Together” Promotions
Purchasing in bulk is a widely used method to save money on various goods, including games. You can apply this approach to gaming by exploring bundles that offer great value for your time and money.
One excellent starting point is Humble Bundle, which provides pay-what-you-want bundles for games, comics, software, and more. Notably, a portion of your payment goes towards supporting charitable causes. Humble Bundle frequently updates its offerings, so if you time it right, you can acquire brand-new games for a mere few dollars. Additionally, other platforms like Fanatical, IndieGala, Itch.io, GOG, and Steam also feature weekly or monthly bundle deals, allowing you to save money on a wider selection of games.
#4 Try Game Streaming
If you’re looking for a subscription without the need for a high-performance device to play the latest PC, PlayStation, and Xbox games, game streaming can be a great alternative. By utilizing remote servers, as long as you have a fast internet connection, you can access a wide variety of games for a monthly fee, saving you the expense of a costly gaming PC or console and purchasing individual games.
For this purpose, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is worth considering. Along with the subscription, you gain access to Xbox Cloud Gaming, allowing you to play many favorite Xbox titles on your Android device, with support for more devices coming soon. On the other hand, PlayStation Now from Sony offers access to a vast library of PS4, PS3, and PS2 games for $9.99 per month on a console or PC.
#5 Grab Free Games
Claiming games for free is the ultimate bargain. Numerous subscription services and platforms offer opportunities to snag complimentary games without spending a dime. We diligently monitor these irresistible giveaways, as does the r/Freegamestuff community.
For a taste of free, explore the Epic Game Store, renowned for its weekly distribution of complimentary games. Past offerings have included acclaimed titles such as Grand Theft Auto V, Hitman, Just Cause 4, Rage 2, Star Wars Battlefront II, A Total War Saga: Troy, and various other noteworthy games. Limited-time free games can also be found on Steam, Itch.io, and even GOG.
#6 Free-to-Play Games
Saving money on video games can be as simple as not spending anything at all. Numerous highly regarded games across various genres are available for free-to-play, including renowned titles like Fortnite, Dota 2, Apex Legends, and Call of Duty: Warzone. Keep in mind that these games are multiplayer, so a stable Internet connection is necessary to fully enjoy them.
Additionally, be cautious of games that are only partially free. While most free games offer optional microtransactions for cosmetic items, some free-to-play games like Destiny 2 and World of Warcraft limit your progress beyond a certain point, requiring payment for expansions or a subscription to continue.
Conclusion
Gaming has become quite an expensive hobby. Although there is a large area of piracy, this is not our choice, since supporting the authors is important for the continued life of the industry. It’s much better to use the listed life hacks that will help you reduce costs and enjoy games legally.
