Current generation video game consoles (Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3, XBOX 360) cost several hundred dollars, especially once second controllers, accessories, online charges (such as XBOX Live), and...well...games (can't forget those) are factored in. Video gaming is expensive.
It's not any better with PC games. Unless one likes to settle for the discount rack, popular PC titles will run a person anywhere from $30 to $60. And then there's online gaming. The mega-popular World of Warcraft costs $15 (as of this writing) each month. That can add up quickly.
Cost-conscious gamers are looking for ways to save money on gaming or make extra cash for gaming. In some cases, they have been forced to become cost-conscious, due to pressure from a parent or spouse. Here are some ways to save money on gaming or make extra cash for gaming:
Ways to Save on Gaming
A gamer should carefully track his game-playing habits through a given week or month. How much time is spent on the XBOX 360 as opposed to World of Warcraft? For that matter, how much time is spent on gaming in general?
Such a person should then prioritize his or her games, based on the choices already made. No need to spend $15 a month on World of Warcraft, if the gamer is spending fewer than 10 hours a month on the game. Better to save that $15 or put it toward other gaming choices.
Of course, one of the best ways to save money on gaming is to look for free games. There are plenty of options out there. Guild Wars, for example, costs money for the initial purchase, but there's no monthly charge. Other games, like Renaissance Kingdoms, are free altogether.
Ways to Save for Gaming
A person saving up for a large purchase, such as a current generation video game console, may choose to pack his lunch every day -- and save up to $30 or more each week in eating-out costs. He or she may also "vacation" from cable TV for a month or two, or car pool to save on gas costs. Look for ways to squirrel aside extra cash. There are usually plenty of possibilities.
Ways to Make Money for Gaming
Sometimes, saving money is not enough. In those cases, a person needs to also earn money. Extra cash is needed for the monthly charges or the PC games or video games or consoles. How can a person put together some extra cash to pay for gaming? Some money-making ideas include:
- Shoveling snow or raking leaves for your neighborhood
- Babysitting
- Yard sale
- Ebay
- and more
Gaming can be expensive. But through creative saving and earning, a person can make gaming affordable.
