Get Cheaper Games On Steam: Tips And Tricks

Hey guys! Are you looking to build up your Steam library without emptying your wallet? We all love gaming, but those game prices can sometimes be a real bummer. Fortunately, there are several smart ways to snag games on Steam for a fraction of their regular cost. This guide will walk you through some proven strategies to help you save money and expand your gaming horizons. So, buckle up, and let's dive into the world of Steam deals and discounts!

1. Wishlist Wonders and Email Alerts

So, you've got your eye on a particular game, but the price tag is a bit too steep right now? This is where the Steam Wishlist becomes your best friend. Adding a game to your Wishlist signals to Steam that you're interested, and here's the magic: Steam will send you email notifications when those games go on sale! This way, you'll never miss out on a price drop. I can't stress enough how important it is to maintain your wishlist, keep it updated, and patiently wait for Steam to notify you. But you might be wondering, how does this actually save money? Well, it's simple. Instead of impulse buying a game at full price, you are strategically waiting for a deal. This way, you're in control, and you're making informed decisions. To make the most of this strategy, be proactive. Browse the Steam store regularly, add games that spark your interest to your wishlist, and make sure your email notifications from Steam are enabled. You can even categorize your wishlist to prioritize the games you want the most. This allows you to focus on the must-have titles when the sales finally arrive. Also, consider adding games that you're curious about, even if you're not completely sold on them. Sometimes, a significant price drop can make a game irresistible, and you might discover a hidden gem that you wouldn't have considered otherwise. Remember, patience is key when it comes to wishlist savings. The longer a game sits on your wishlist, the higher the chance that it will eventually go on sale. So, don't be discouraged if it takes a while for the price to drop. Just keep an eye on your email notifications and be ready to pounce when the opportunity arises.

2. The Allure of Steam Sales

Alright, let's talk about the big one: Steam Sales. These are legendary events that happen several times a year, and they are a goldmine for gamers looking for discounts. The most well-known are the Steam Summer Sale, the Steam Autumn Sale, and the Steam Winter Sale, but there are often smaller sales sprinkled throughout the year as well. During these sales, thousands of games get massive price cuts, sometimes up to 90% off! This is the perfect time to stock up on games you've been wanting to play or to take a chance on something new. To prepare for a Steam Sale, I recommend a few things. First, start browsing the Steam store ahead of time and add games to your Wishlist. This will help you keep track of the games you're interested in and see which ones go on sale. Second, set a budget for yourself. It's easy to get carried away during a Steam Sale and end up spending more money than you intended. Having a budget will help you stay focused and avoid impulse buys. Third, don't be afraid to wait for the Daily Deals and Flash Sales. During a Steam Sale, some games will have even deeper discounts for a limited time. These deals can be incredibly tempting, but it's important to remember your budget and only buy games that you're actually going to play. One of the most useful strategies during a Steam sale is to compare prices across different platforms and stores. Sometimes, a game might be cheaper on another platform, even during the Steam Sale. Also, keep an eye out for bundles and collections. These can be a great way to get several games for a discounted price. And finally, remember to read reviews before buying a game. Just because a game is on sale doesn't mean it's worth your money. Make sure to check the user reviews and see what other players are saying about the game before you make a purchase.

3. Bundles of Joy: Humble Bundle and Fanatical

Beyond Steam itself, there are other websites that offer fantastic deals on games, often in the form of bundles. Humble Bundle and Fanatical are two of the most popular and reputable sites for this. Humble Bundle typically offers bundles where you can pay what you want, and a portion of the proceeds goes to charity. Fanatical, on the other hand, offers a wider variety of bundles and individual game deals. Both sites offer Steam keys for the games you purchase, so you can easily add them to your Steam library. The advantage of these bundles is that you can often get several games for the price of one, and you're supporting charity at the same time. To make the most of these sites, it is important to sign up for their email newsletters so you can be notified when new bundles are released. Also, browse the sites regularly to see what individual game deals are available. Consider purchasing bundles even if you're only interested in a few of the games. The cost of the bundle is often less than the cost of buying the games individually. However, be aware of the contents of the bundle before you buy it. Make sure the games are actually something you're interested in playing. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of a good deal, but you don't want to end up with a bunch of games that you'll never play. Before buying a bundle, take some time to research the games included and see what other players are saying about them. The key to maximizing savings with bundles is to be strategic and selective. Don't just buy every bundle that comes along. Focus on the ones that offer the most value for your money and that include games that you're genuinely interested in playing.

4. Exploring Third-Party Key Resellers (Proceed with Caution!)

Okay, this one comes with a big warning: buying Steam keys from third-party resellers can be risky. There are legitimate sites out there, but there are also sites that sell keys obtained through questionable means, such as stolen credit cards or fraudulent purchases. If you buy a key from one of these sites, there's a chance that the key could be revoked, and you'll lose access to the game. However, if you're careful and do your research, you can sometimes find great deals on legitimate key reseller sites. Some of the more reputable sites include Green Man Gaming and Gamesplanet. But how do you know if a key reseller is legitimate? First, check the site's reputation. Look for reviews and see what other players are saying about their experiences. Second, be wary of sites that offer ridiculously low prices. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Third, make sure the site offers a refund policy in case there's a problem with the key. If you decide to buy a key from a third-party reseller, it is crucial to activate the key immediately after purchase. This will help you avoid any potential problems with the key being revoked. Also, keep a record of your purchase in case you need to contact the reseller for support. Buying from third-party key resellers can be a tempting way to save money on games, but it's important to be aware of the risks involved. Proceed with caution, do your research, and only buy from reputable sites.

5. Region Hopping (Use a VPN Responsibly!)

This is another advanced technique that can be a bit controversial, and it's important to understand the risks before you try it. In some regions of the world, games are cheaper on Steam than in others. By using a VPN (Virtual Private Network), you can theoretically connect to a server in a different region and buy games at the lower price. However, this violates Steam's terms of service, and if you get caught, your account could be banned. So, I'm not officially recommending that you do this, but I'm including it for informational purposes. If you decide to try region hopping, it's important to use a reputable VPN service and to connect to a server in a region where the game is legitimately cheaper. Also, make sure to use a payment method that's accepted in that region. And finally, be aware that some games may be region-locked, meaning that you won't be able to play them outside of the region where you bought them. It is important to understand Steam's policies on VPN usage and the potential consequences of violating those policies. Also, be aware of the legal implications of using a VPN in your country. In some countries, VPN usage is restricted or prohibited. Region hopping can be a tempting way to save money on games, but it's important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully before you decide to try it. And remember, I'm not responsible if you get banned from Steam! Always prioritize the security and integrity of your Steam account, and respect Steam's terms of service.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! Several ways to get your hands on cheaper Steam games. Whether you're diligently wishlisting, patiently waiting for sales, exploring bundles, or cautiously considering key resellers, there are many paths to a more affordable gaming library. Just remember to be smart, do your research, and always prioritize the security of your account. Happy gaming, and may your wallets remain relatively full!