Beginner's Guide to Finding Discounts on Games

Beginner's Guide to Finding Discounts on Games: Slaying the Price Tag

The thrill of diving into a new video game is undeniable. The anticipation builds as you watch trailers, read reviews, and imagine yourself exploring vast worlds or conquering challenging levels. However, that excitement can quickly be dampened by the price tag. New releases often come with hefty price tags, and even older titles can seem expensive if you're on a budget. Fear not, fellow gamers! Finding discounts on games is an art form, and this beginner's guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to become a master bargain hunter.

This guide covers everything from understanding the digital storefront landscape to leveraging price comparison websites, utilizing subscription services, and even exploring the often-overlooked world of physical game sales. Get ready to level up your discount-finding skills and build a library of amazing games without breaking the bank.

I. Understanding the Digital Storefront Landscape

The digital distribution of games has revolutionized the way we purchase and play. Major platforms like Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, Nintendo eShop, GOG (Good Old Games), and Epic Games Store offer a vast selection of titles available for instant download. Each storefront has its own unique quirks and advantages when it comes to discounts. Understanding these nuances is crucial for maximizing your savings.

• Steam (PC): The undisputed king of PC gaming, Steam boasts a massive library and frequent sales.
  • Steam Sales: Keep an eye out for Steam's seasonal sales (Summer Sale, Autumn Sale, Winter Sale, Spring Sale), where thousands of games are discounted, often drastically. These sales usually feature flash sales, daily deals, and community-voted discounts.
  • Daily Deals and Weekend Deals: Beyond the major sales, Steam offers daily and weekend deals on select games, providing opportunities to snag a bargain any time of the year.
  • Steam Bundles: Consider purchasing game bundles, which often include multiple games at a discounted price compared to buying them individually.
  • Steam Wishlist: Add games you're interested in to your Steam Wishlist. You'll receive notifications when those games go on sale.
  • Steam Points Shop: Earn Steam Points by making purchases on the platform. You can redeem these points for cosmetic items, backgrounds, and profile enhancements.
• PlayStation Store (PlayStation Consoles): The official digital storefront for PlayStation consoles offers a wide range of games, from AAA blockbusters to indie gems.
  • PlayStation Store Sales: Similar to Steam, the PlayStation Store hosts regular sales, including seasonal sales, weekend deals, and themed promotions.
  • PlayStation Plus Discounts: PlayStation Plus subscribers receive exclusive discounts on select games, often more significant than those offered to non-subscribers.
  • PlayStation Indies: The PlayStation Store often features dedicated sections highlighting indie games with attractive discounts.
• Xbox Store (Xbox Consoles): The digital storefront for Xbox consoles provides access to a vast library of games, including Xbox Game Pass titles.
  • Xbox Store Sales: Expect regular sales on the Xbox Store, including weekly deals, spotlight sales, and seasonal promotions.
  • Deals with Gold: Xbox Live Gold subscribers receive exclusive discounts on select games through the "Deals with Gold" program.
  • Xbox Game Pass Discounts: Subscribers to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate often receive discounts on games available in the Game Pass library, allowing them to purchase titles they enjoy playing through the subscription service at a reduced price.
• Nintendo eShop (Nintendo Switch): The Nintendo eShop offers a curated selection of games for the Nintendo Switch, including first-party Nintendo titles and indie gems.
  • Nintendo eShop Sales: The eShop features regular sales, often themed around specific genres or publishers.
  • Nintendo Switch Online Vouchers: Nintendo Switch Online subscribers can purchase vouchers that can be redeemed for two Nintendo-published games at a discounted price compared to buying them individually.
  • My Nintendo Rewards: Earn My Nintendo Gold Points by purchasing games on the eShop. These points can be redeemed for discounts on future purchases.
• GOG (Good Old Games) (PC): Specializing in DRM-free classic games, GOG offers a unique and consumer-friendly approach to digital distribution.
  • GOG Sales: GOG hosts regular sales, often featuring classic games at incredibly low prices.
  • DRM-Free Guarantee: All games on GOG are DRM-free, meaning you can download and play them without needing to be constantly connected to the internet.
  • GOG Connect: GOG Connect allows you to connect your Steam account and receive DRM-free copies of certain games you already own on Steam.
• Epic Games Store (PC): Known for giving away free games weekly, the Epic Games Store has quickly gained popularity among PC gamers.
  • Free Games: Every week, the Epic Games Store offers one or more free games to download and keep permanently.
  • Epic Mega Sales: The Epic Games Store hosts occasional "Mega Sales" with significant discounts on a wide range of games.
  • Epic Coupons: Epic Games often provides coupons that can be applied to eligible purchases, further reducing the price of games.

II. Leveraging Price Comparison Websites and Trackers

Manually checking each storefront for discounts can be time-consuming and inefficient. Price comparison websites and trackers automate this process, allowing you to quickly identify the best deals across multiple platforms.

• IsThereAnyDeal: A popular website that aggregates game prices from various digital storefronts. You can set price alerts to be notified when a game reaches your desired price.
• GG.deals: Another excellent price comparison website that tracks prices across multiple storefronts, including Steam, GOG, and the Epic Games Store.
• CheapShark: A user-friendly website that helps you find the best deals on PC games.
• Deku Deals: Specifically focused on Nintendo Switch games, Deku Deals tracks prices in the Nintendo eShop and sends you notifications when games on your wishlist go on sale.
• PSDeals (PlayStation): Tracks PlayStation game prices and sends notifications.
• Xbox-Now (Xbox): Tracks Xbox game prices and sends notifications.

These websites allow you to:

• Compare prices across multiple platforms: Easily see which storefront offers the best deal on a specific game.
• Set price alerts: Receive email or mobile notifications when a game reaches your desired price.
• Track price history: See how the price of a game has fluctuated over time, helping you determine if it's a good time to buy.
• Discover bundle deals: Find discounted game bundles that offer multiple games at a reduced price.

III. Exploring Subscription Services: Access and Value

Subscription services have become increasingly popular in the gaming world, offering access to a library of games for a monthly or annual fee. These services can be a great way to play a wide variety of games without purchasing them individually.

• Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: The ultimate subscription service for Xbox and PC gamers, offering access to a library of hundreds of games, including first-party Xbox titles on day one. Includes Xbox Live Gold, EA Play, and cloud gaming.
• PlayStation Plus (Multiple Tiers): Sony's subscription service, now offering multiple tiers with varying benefits.
  • Essential: Basic online multiplayer access, monthly free games, and exclusive discounts.
  • Extra: Adds a catalog of PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 games to download and play.
  • Premium: Includes everything in Extra, plus access to classic PlayStation, PS2, and PSP games through cloud streaming or download, as well as game trials.
• EA Play: A subscription service from Electronic Arts, offering access to a library of EA games, early access to new releases, and exclusive discounts.
• Ubisoft+: A subscription service from Ubisoft, providing access to a library of Ubisoft games, including new releases and premium editions.
• Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Provides access to online multiplayer, a library of classic NES and SNES games, cloud saves, and the ability to play select Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis games.

Benefits of Subscription Services:

• Cost-effective: Can be more affordable than buying games individually, especially if you play a lot of different titles.
• Access to a wide variety of games: Explore a diverse library of games without having to commit to purchasing them.
• Try before you buy: Test out games through the subscription service before deciding to purchase them.
• Day-one access to new releases (for some services): Play new games from certain publishers on the day of their release.

IV. Venturing into the Realm of Physical Game Discounts

While digital downloads are convenient, don't overlook the potential for finding discounts on physical copies of games. Retailers often offer sales, clearance deals, and trade-in programs that can help you save money.

• Retail Stores: Major retailers like Best Buy, GameStop, Walmart, and Target frequently offer discounts on physical games, especially during holidays and promotional periods.
• Used Game Markets: Websites and stores that sell used games, such as GameStop and eBay, can offer significant savings on older titles.
• Trade-In Programs: Trade in your old games at retailers like GameStop for store credit, which you can then use to purchase new games.
• Clearance Sales: Keep an eye out for clearance sales at retailers, where they often deeply discount older games to make room for new inventory.
• Online Marketplaces: Online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace can be a treasure trove of discounted physical games. Be sure to check seller ratings and read reviews before making a purchase.
• Local Game Stores: Don't forget to support your local game stores! They often have competitive prices and offer personalized recommendations.

Tips for Buying Physical Games:

• Check the condition: If buying a used game, carefully inspect the disc or cartridge for scratches or damage.
• Compare prices: Compare prices across multiple retailers and online marketplaces to ensure you're getting the best deal.
• Consider shipping costs: When buying online, factor in shipping costs to determine the final price.
• Read reviews: Read reviews from other buyers before purchasing a used game to ensure it's in good condition and works properly.

V. Utilizing Additional Strategies for Maximum Savings

Beyond the primary methods mentioned above, here are some additional strategies to maximize your game-discounting prowess:

• Follow Gaming News and Deal Websites: Stay informed about the latest game deals and promotions by following gaming news websites, deal websites, and social media accounts dedicated to game discounts. Examples include:
  • IGN Deals
  • Gamespot Deals
  • Reddit's r/GameDeals
  • Twitter accounts dedicated to game deals.
• Join Gaming Communities and Forums: Participate in online gaming communities and forums to share and discover game deals with other gamers.
• Use Browser Extensions: Install browser extensions that automatically search for coupons and discounts when you're shopping online.
• Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs: Sign up for loyalty programs at retailers like GameStop and Best Buy to earn points on your purchases, which you can then redeem for discounts.
• Be Patient: If you're not in a hurry to play a particular game, wait for it to go on sale. Most games eventually get discounted, often significantly.
• Consider Regional Pricing: In some cases, games may be cheaper in certain regions due to regional pricing policies. However, be aware of potential region-locking issues.
• Bundle Your Purchases: Look for opportunities to bundle your purchases, such as buying a console and a game together at a discounted price.
• Check for Free Weekends and Demos: Many games offer free weekends or demos, allowing you to try them out before you buy. This can help you decide if a game is worth purchasing, even at a discounted price.
• Remember Humble Bundle: Humble Bundle offers curated bundles of games (and sometimes software) at prices you determine, with a portion of the proceeds going to charity.

VI. Conclusion: The Art of the Deal and the Joy of Gaming

Finding discounts on games is a skill that can be honed with practice and knowledge. By understanding the digital storefront landscape, leveraging price comparison websites, utilizing subscription services, exploring physical game sales, and employing additional strategies, you can build a library of amazing games without emptying your wallet.

Remember that patience is key. Don't feel pressured to buy a game at full price if you can wait for a sale. By being proactive and resourceful, you can become a master bargain hunter and enjoy the thrill of gaming without breaking the bank. So, go forth, explore the world of game discounts, and build your ultimate gaming library! Happy gaming!