by George Stranz

Created on: December 04, 2009   Last Updated: December 05, 2009

How to Save Money on Video Games

Video games are more popular than ever, but they are also more expensive than ever. Most consoles cost in excess of $200. Hot, new software titles cost $60 a pop. Instead of shelling out a load of cash for each new release, buyers can save money by buying used titles, renting games, or trading titles.

Buy Used

If you're willing to wait a couple of weeks, you can get newer game titles at a discount. Many gamers buy brand new releases, play them, and then sell them. Stores such as

GameStop and websites such as eBay sell hundreds of used video games below the original cost. Be sure to shop around since prices and conditions vary.

Rent

Renting video games is a much cheaper alternative to buying video games outright. Gamers can rent titles from services such as GameFly and NumbThumb for as low as $8.95 per month. These services offer hundreds of titles for popular systems with free shipping direct to your door. There are no late fees, so there's no need to rush the titles back to a store. The rental services are simple to use. You simply build a list of titles you'd like to rent, sometimes called a queue, and the rental service will ship you one whenever you return a title. Rental services are great since they allow gamers to try a large variety of games at a low price.

Borrow

Borrowing is a cheaper alternative to renting. If you know anyone who plays video games, you can ask to borrow one of his titles. You can also check with your local library to see if they loan video games. If you borrow from the library, you'll need to return the game in the same condition that you received it. You'll also need to return the game by the due date or face a fine.

Swap and Trade

Trading games is another alternative to purchasing video games. You can swap games, controllers, and even consoles with other gamers around the globe. Online communities such as Game Trading Zone allow users to list items for trade. You can search trade lists to find potential trade partners to contact about a deal. Trades are tracked on the website with each party listing when he shipped and received items. Traders can be rated once a transaction is complete. This feedback system lets the community know who is reputable and who isn't.

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