How to Buy Steam Games for Cheaper: Tips and Tricks
Steam is one of the largest digital game stores in the world, offering a vast library of games to millions of players. However, while Steam is incredibly popular, the prices of some games can be quite high, especially for new releases or AAA titles. If you’re looking to buy Steam games for cheaper, there are several strategies you can use to save money and still enjoy your favorite games.
Understanding Steam Sales
One of the most effective ways to buy Steam games at a lower price is by taking advantage of Steam sales. Steam regularly hosts sales events throughout the year, such as the Steam Summer Sale and the Steam Winter Sale, where thousands of games are discounted by up to 90%. These sales are a great opportunity to purchase games you’ve been eyeing at a fraction of their original price.
Seasonal Sales
Summer Sale: Typically occurs in June or July, offering deep discounts on a wide range of games.
Winter Sale: Usually happens in December, around the holiday season, and often includes some of the year’s biggest releases at discounted prices.
Black Friday Sale: While not as large as the summer or winter sales, Steam also offers discounts during Black Friday, which is in November.
Weekly Deals
In addition to the major seasonal sales, Steam also offers weekly deals where a selection of games is discounted for a shorter period, usually 7 days. These deals can be a good way to pick up games at a lower price without waiting for the major sales events.
Using Steam Wallet Funds
Another way to buy Steam games for cheaper is by using Steam Wallet funds. Steam often offers bonuses when you add funds to your wallet during certain periods, especially during sales events. For example, Steam might offer a 10% bonus on wallet funds during the summer sale. This means that if you add $50 to your wallet, you’ll get an extra $5 to spend on games.
Buying Game Bundles
Steam also offers game bundles, which allow you to purchase multiple games at a discounted price. These bundles are often themed, such as “RPG Bundle” or “Indie Bundle,” and can be a cost-effective way to acquire several games at once. Additionally, some bundles include DLCs (Downloadable Content) or soundtracks, adding even more value to your purchase.
Paying Attention to Indie Games
Independent games, or indie games, are often priced lower than AAA titles, and many of them are just as engaging and enjoyable. Steam has a vast selection of indie games, and they are frequently discounted during sales. Some popular indie games include Hollow Knight, Celeste, and Stardew Valley. These games not only offer great gameplay but also provide excellent value for money.
Following Developers and Publishers
Following your favorite game developers and publishers on Steam can also help you buy Steam games for cheaper. Many developers offer discounts on their games to celebrate milestones, such as the anniversary of a game’s release or the launch of a new title. By following them, you’ll receive notifications about upcoming sales and special offers.
Using Price Comparison Tools
If you’re looking to buy Steam games for cheaper, it’s worth using price comparison tools to find the best deals. Websites like SteamDB or IsThereAnyDeal allow you to track the historical prices of games on Steam and receive alerts when they go on sale. These tools can help you make informed purchasing decisions and ensure that you’re getting the best possible price for the games you want.
Case Study: Cyberpunk 2077
A great example of how to buy Steam games for cheaper is the game Cyberpunk 2077. When it was first released in December 2020, the game was priced at $59.99. However, due to its rocky launch and numerous bugs, the game received a significant discount during the 2021 Steam Summer Sale, dropping to just $39.99. Players who waited just a few months were able to save $20 on the game. This illustrates the importance of patience and timing when it comes to purchasing games on Steam.
Conclusion
Buying Steam games for cheaper requires a combination of patience, timing, and strategy. By taking advantage of Steam sales, using Steam Wallet funds, purchasing game bundles, exploring indie games, following developers, and utilizing price comparison tools, you can enjoy your favorite games without breaking the bank. Remember, the key is to stay informed and be willing to wait for the right moment to make your purchase. Happy gaming!