Trying to save money when buying video games can feel like a stealth mission worthy of Solid Snake himself. The key is patience: resisting the urge to grab a new release on day one often pays off, since most games drop in price within a few months. Seasonal sales like Steam’s Summer Sale, PlayStation’s holiday deals, and Nintendo’s occasional eShop discounts can turn a $60 game into a $20 steal if you’re willing to wait. Subscriptions like Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus Extra, or even old-school rental services can also stretch your dollar, letting you play a huge library of games for the cost of a single purchase. And don’t overlook secondhand options—local game shops, pawn stores, and even garage sales can hide hidden gems at bargain-bin prices.

Another smart tactic is to go digital in moderation. Digital storefronts often feature flash sales and bundle deals, but physical copies can be resold or traded in, giving you some of your money back when you’re done. Keeping an eye on price-tracking websites or apps can help you snag a deal the moment it appears, and stacking coupons, loyalty points, or credit card rewards can sweeten the pot. Above all, building a backlog of games you already own but haven’t played is the ultimate money-saver—after all, the cheapest game is the one you don’t have to buy yet. With a little strategy and patience, you can keep your collection growing without letting your wallet go full Game Over.