Gaming is more accessible than ever before. Unfortunately, the industry is also pricier than ever before. From hardware like VR headsets and gaming desks to subscriptions like the Xbox Game Pass, there’s a pricey new venture on every horizon. Even games in the ‘free’ category tend to include microtransactions that add up—especially if players want to advance in the game.
If you want to save, you need to know a bit of insider information. Keep reading for the top six tips that we’ve collected on how to save on gaming. No matter which areas you’re looking to cut back in, we’ve got fresh advice for you.
Tip #1: Look for Bonuses & Bundles
One of the easiest ways to save is to look for bonus deals and bundles. The former is particularly applicable to smaller and more niche gaming genres, such as online casinos. If you’re a fan of slots or blackjack, then you’ll be happy to hear that an online casino bonus guide can help you access your favorite titles for free. Every bonus type is different, including deals available for first-time players, loyal customers, and those who are willing to try out new releases.
Bundles, on the other hand, apply toward traditional releases for PCs and consoles (amongst others). A bundle is a way to own several games with a single purchase. These are commonly found on sites like Steam, though there’s one important indie bundle that you should know about (more on this below).
Tip #2: Finish Your Library Before Shopping for More
Though it might seem unlikely, gamers have one trait in common with avid readers: they have an extensive library that includes titles they haven’t gotten to yet. One of the easiest ways to save money as a gamer is to be disciplined enough to play each game in your library. As outlined above, bundles are one popular way for gamers to access multiple titles at once. Before spending on a new release, go back to that ‘To Be Played’ list.
Tip #3: Go Indie
Given the proliferation of gaming, there are more indie creators active than ever before. Many have attained great success, releasing some of the world’s most popular games. If you want to save, then skip over legacy developers and focus on up-and-comers who are doing their own thing. Humble is a gaming platform that showcases indie creators and offers a stellar bundle deal. Each month, Humble Bundle connects gamers to brand-new indie titles, which is a fantastic way to save and explore the latest frontiers in gaming.
Tip #4: Revisit Old Favorites
Gamers tend to be nostalgic, and often remember the games from their childhood with great fondness. Thanks to the internet, you can find almost any game adapted for browser play (or download). This means you can revisit just about any game from the past and, in certain cases, even invite remote friends to play in multiplayer mods. If you’re feeling a bit uninspired and cash-poor, then one of the best ways to get back into the gaming spirit is to access an old title, whether GoldenEye 007 or Club Penguin.
Tip #5: Itch Your Scratch with Streams Before Spending Big
It’s not unheard of for gamers to spend big on a new title only to find out that the game isn’t for them. This might be down to gaming mechanics or narrative, both of which can quickly turn gamers off from a project. For this reason, we recommend that you always watch streams of any title you’re considering spending big on. When it comes to new releases, there’s often a sense of urgency around playing a new title—but it’s still worth delaying your gaming a bit to avoid shelling out a lot of money for a game that won’t actually meet the hype.
