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Video games are something that nowadays everyone and their mother seem to spend money on. From controllers to the console, the latest cult classic or the best seller, there are endless options to spend on video games. However, games aren't cheap and the price can seem a little steep at times, so here are a few tips on how to be a gamer and still have some cash left over to get the groceries.

Used games are a fantastic way to save money when buying games. Used games almost always work, and every store has some kind of policy that if the game doesn't work, you can always bring it back. Used games usually go down in price over time as well, so don't feel the need to buy that game the day it comes out. Also you can find many older games in the used section, ones that you could never find normally.

Many game consoles offer older titles that sell for twenty dollars. Playstation 2 has the greatest hits collection, which contains quite a few very good games. The games are new and are no different from the original, except for less than half the price.

There's no need to buy a game the day it comes out, so this means that there is no need to reserve a game unless there is over a ninety percent chance it will be sold out in every store for the first week. Reserving games is an easy way for game stores to pull an easy five dollars out of your wallet.

Make sure you know what you are buying is very important. Although smaller stores can be more lenient with their return policies, most large chains won't let you return an opened product after seven days unless you really have a fit about it. Look at online reviews of the game you plan to buy or read a review in one of the stores magazines if it is a last minute decision.

Online rental services are another great way to save money. You can keep the game for as long as you want, and return it after you beat it. Rates are also getting more affordable due to the popularity of these services.

The last part of spending less money on games is talk to your friends. Trading games with friends is great for playing RPGs or adventure games. Ask to trade with each other after one of you beats the game and if you want you can always trade back.
The one thing I don't suggest is trading in games. Game store scam you out of quite a bit of money unless you return the game a week or two after it comes out. Sports games become especially worthless after the next in the franchise comes out. The one time you should trade games is when stores offer special trade in deals, such as an extra five dollars for every trade, or an extra twenty percent when you trade in four games or more.

Video games are skyrocketing in popularity and they will probably be the staple in many young peoples' living rooms for years to come, and as the prices go up for games or consoles, you should always know how to keep your wallet fat as you walk out of a game store.

Learn more about this author, Shakeil Greeley.
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