How to find the absolute best deal on PC, console, & mobile games?

Unlock the Best Gaming Deals Across All Platforms

Gaming can be an expensive hobby, but it doesn’t have to be. With a bit of knowledge, patience, and the right tools, you can significantly cut down on the cost of your favorite PC, console, and mobile titles. This guide will walk you through the most effective strategies to find the absolute best deals, ensuring your gaming library grows without emptying your wallet.

Mastering PC Game Discounts

PC gaming offers a vast ecosystem of storefronts and sales, making it a prime target for deal hunters. Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG, Humble Bundle, and Green Man Gaming are your primary destinations. Each platform regularly hosts massive seasonal sales (Summer, Winter, Black Friday), publisher-specific promotions, and flash deals. Keep an eye on the Epic Games Store for weekly free titles and significant coupons during their sales events.

Beyond official stores, consider reputable key resellers like Fanatical and Humble Store, which often have bundles and discounts. Exercise caution with less known key sites, as some can be unreliable. Subscription services like PC Game Pass and EA Play also offer incredible value, providing access to a large library of games for a monthly fee.

Snagging Console Game Bargains

Console gamers also have plenty of opportunities to save. Digital storefronts such as the PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, and Nintendo eShop frequently run sales, often aligning with major holidays or specific publisher promotions. Always check the ‘Deals’ or ‘Sales’ section directly on your console or its accompanying app.

Don’t overlook physical retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and GameStop. They often price match or offer their own competitive discounts, especially on older titles or during major shopping events. The used game market, through stores like GameStop or online marketplaces, can also be a goldmine for significant savings on physical copies. Lastly, subscription services like PlayStation Plus, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and Nintendo Switch Online provide a rotating selection of free games and exclusive discounts.

Finding Mobile Game Gems for Less

Mobile gaming, often perceived as ‘free,’ can still rack up costs with premium titles and in-app purchases (IAPs). Both Google Play Store and Apple App Store regularly feature ‘App of the Week’ or ‘Game of the Day’ promotions, offering premium games for free or at a steep discount. Keep an eye on developer sales, especially around major holidays.

For free-to-play games, watch out for limited-time offers on IAPs, battle passes, or special currency bundles. Sometimes, specific gaming news sites or forums will highlight these deals before they expire. Subscribing to services like Apple Arcade or Google Play Pass can also grant access to a curated library of premium mobile games without ads or additional IAPs.

Essential Tools and Strategies for Every Gamer

Regardless of your preferred platform, several universal strategies and tools will elevate your deal-hunting game:

• Price Trackers and Alerts: Websites like IsThereAnyDeal (PC), CheapShark (PC/Console), DekuDeals (Nintendo), and PS Deals (PlayStation) are indispensable. They track prices across multiple retailers and can send you email alerts when a game on your wishlist drops to a desired price.
• Wishlists: Utilize the wishlist feature on all your digital storefronts. This makes it easy to track games you’re interested in and receive notifications when they go on sale.
• Bundles: Platforms like Humble Bundle and Fanatical regularly offer game bundles at incredibly low prices, often for charity. These are fantastic for expanding your library with new titles.
• Patience is Key: Almost every game eventually goes on sale. Unless you need to play a new release immediately, waiting a few weeks or months can save you significant money.
• Leverage Free Games: Don’t forget the free games offered by various services. Epic Games Store gives away free PC games weekly, and subscription services like PS Plus and Xbox Game Pass include monthly free titles.

Conclusion

Finding the absolute best deals on PC, console, and mobile games is an achievable goal for any gamer. By understanding where to look, utilizing price tracking tools, and practicing a bit of patience, you can build an impressive game collection without breaking the bank. Happy gaming, and even happier saving!