Gaming on a Budget: Enjoying Your Hobby Without Breaking the Bank

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Gaming is a popular pastime that can sometimes come with a hefty price tag. However, living a frugal life doesn’t mean you have to give up on the things you enjoy. By adopting smart strategies, you can save money while still indulging in your favorite hobby. Here’s how to game on a budget and make every dollar count.

Delay Gratification

One of the simplest ways to save money on gaming is to wait. Instead of buying a game the day it releases, hold off until the price drops. Most new games experience significant discounts within months of release. Additionally, consider buying games during seasonal sales, such as those offered by platforms like Steam or the PlayStation Store. Patience pays off, as you’ll often find these games at a fraction of the original cost.

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Buy Used Games

Another effective strategy is to purchase used games. Pre-owned games are typically much cheaper than their brand-new counterparts. Retailers like GameStop and online marketplaces like eBay offer a wide selection of used titles. Many of these games are in excellent condition, providing the same experience at a lower cost.

Avoid Subscription-Based Games

Subscription-based games, while entertaining, can quickly add up. Monthly fees for games like MMORPGs or live-service titles can cost hundreds of dollars a year. Instead, opt for single-purchase games that don’t require ongoing payments to enjoy. If you already subscribe to a service like Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Plus, make the most of it by playing the included games before purchasing new ones.

Reward Yourself Occasionally

Gaming is meant to be fun, and it’s okay to splurge occasionally. If there’s a game you’re excited about and want to play with friends, consider buying it new when it releases. Make this a reward for successfully sticking to your budget over a long period, such as a year. This approach keeps gaming enjoyable while ensuring you stay on track with your financial goals.

Leverage Free and Discounted Games

Take advantage of free games and promotional offers. Many platforms regularly give away games for free—Epic Games Store, for example, offers free titles weekly. Services like PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass provide access to extensive game libraries for a flat monthly fee, often delivering incredible value for avid gamers.

Budget for Gaming

To enjoy gaming without guilt, include it in your monthly budget. Use a budgeting app like Simplifi to allocate a specific amount for gaming expenses. Knowing exactly how much you can spend helps you make informed decisions and prevents overspending.

Popular Free-to-play Games

Here’s some popular games that you can play today, for free.

Fortnite

Available On: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC, iOS (streaming), Android

Fortnite is a vibrant battle royale game where 100 players drop onto an island and compete to be the last one standing. The game features an evolving story with unique events, like mysterious alien invasions and cataclysmic storms, that reshape the map and gameplay. Alongside the competitive action, Fortnite offers Creative and Save the World modes, making it accessible for gamers of all ages and skill levels.

Apex Legends

Available On: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC

Apex Legends takes place in the Outlands, a chaotic region of the Titanfall universe. Players choose from a diverse cast of Legends, each with unique abilities, and team up in squads to fight in a high-tech battle royale. The game emphasizes fast-paced combat, team strategy, and an engaging, ever-expanding narrative with seasonal updates that reveal more about the characters and the world.

Call of Duty: Warzone

Available On: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Set in the Call of Duty universe, Warzone is a battle royale and extraction shooter hybrid featuring a sprawling map called Al Mazrah. Players drop in solo or in squads, gather gear, complete contracts, and try to survive against other players and environmental challenges. The game also builds on the broader lore of the Call of Duty franchise, with connections to Modern Warfare’s campaign.

Genshin Impact

Available On: PlayStation 4/5, PC, iOS, Android

Genshin Impact is an open-world action RPG set in Teyvat, a fantastical world with seven nations tied to elemental gods. Players assume the role of the Traveler, searching for their lost sibling while unraveling the mysteries of the world. The game offers a deep story, dynamic combat mechanics, and an expansive environment to explore—all while remaining free-to-play.

Rocket League

Available On: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC

Rocket League combines soccer with high-speed cars in an electrifying sports game. Players control rocket-powered vehicles, using boosts and physics to score goals in chaotic matches. While there’s no overarching story, the game’s engaging competitive structure and seasonal content provide a continuously fresh experience.

Destiny 2

Available On: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Destiny 2 is a multiplayer online shooter where players become Guardians, protectors of Earth’s last safe city. They battle against alien races and otherworldly forces while unraveling a sprawling narrative involving the Light, Darkness, and the Traveler. The free-to-play version includes the base game and several expansions to immerse new players in its epic sci-fi universe.

Fall Guys

Available On: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC

Fall Guys is a chaotic, colorful party game where players control jellybean-like characters racing through obstacle courses, competing in mini-games, and trying to be the last one standing. Though it doesn’t feature a traditional story, its lighthearted gameplay and quirky design make it a hit with players of all ages.