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Video Games on a Budget

Are you having trouble finding the money to spend on your video game addiction hobby? I've read a few money management books so perhaps I am qualified to give a few tips. Or maybe not. But I am going to pretend that I am for the rest of this article.

- Read reviews of games you are thinking about buying. Don't ever buy a game because it sounds good or the box looks good. Never buy a game just because it has great graphics.

- Rent the game from Blockbuster or wherever you like to rent video games from. If possible, borrow the game from someone who already has it. Borrowing instead of renting could save you about $5.

The reason you want to rent is to make sure you will like the game. Even if a game has good reviews you still may not like it. For example, many web sites gave ExciteBike 64 great reviews and called it one of the best motorcycle games ever. Since I like racing games, especially dirt bikes, I decided to pick it up. After playing it for an hour, I realized that I had made the wrong decision. The gameplay was terrible and I was out $20. Later on I got $8 for the game, so I spent $12 to learn a good lesson.

- Buying used is a great way to save money. I used to buy all of my games new, but lately many of my purchases have been of used games. If you have a good video game store near you then it's possible to find the game you want (complete with manual, box, and in great condition) for 20-60% less than you would pay to buy it new. Make sure your video game store has an acceptable return policy in case anything is wrong with the game.

Buying from people who place ads in the newspaper can also get you awesome deals. Make sure to test everything before you buy it though.

You can also find great deals on eBay. Only buy from sellers with a good rating. I have bought many things online through eBay and have never had a problem when I bought from trusted sellers with good ratings.

If the game has recently been released, and you don't want to wait until the price drops, then you may want to buy it new. Usually buying it used would only save you around $5 or so if it's a new and popular game. And you should always shop around (or call around - save the gas) for the best price.

- Classic video game systems such as the Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis, and PS-One are very affordable and have excellent games that are just as fun as many of today's games.

- If you're having trouble finding $40 for that great new game, try saving. If you can save just $1.50 a day, in a month you will have $40! One new game a month is pretty good!

I hope this guide has helped you. Most of it is common sense.