Buy Cheap Nintendo Switch Games: Ultimate Guide
Hey there, fellow Nintendo Switch gamers! Looking to expand your game library without emptying your wallet? You've come to the right place. We all know how quickly the cost of digital games can add up, but don't worry, I'm here to share some awesome strategies to help you score those sweet deals and keep your gaming budget in check.
Why Digital Games?
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of finding cheap games, let's quickly touch on why digital games are so popular. First off, convenience! No more physical cartridges to keep track of or lug around. Your entire library is available at your fingertips, ready to play whenever and wherever you want. Plus, digital games never get scratched or lost, which is a huge win for those of us who are a little clumsy (no judgment!).
Another perk is the ability to pre-load games. This means you can download the game before its official release date, so you can jump in the moment it unlocks. No more waiting in line at the store or dealing with shipping delays. It's all about instant gratification, guys! Finally, many digital games offer exclusive bonuses and content that you won't find with physical copies.
Understanding the Nintendo eShop
The Nintendo eShop is your primary hub for buying digital games on the Switch. It's like the App Store or Google Play Store, but specifically for Nintendo games. The eShop offers a vast selection of titles, ranging from AAA blockbusters to indie gems. You can browse games by genre, popularity, release date, and more. The eShop also regularly features sales and promotions, so it's always worth checking back often to see what's on offer. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, such as the Summer Sale, Black Friday Sale, and Holiday Sale, as these often offer the biggest discounts.
Navigating the eShop
The eShop interface is pretty straightforward, but here are a few tips to help you find the best deals: First, use the search function to quickly find specific games you're interested in. You can also filter games by price to see the cheapest options available. Don't forget to check the "Deals" section, which highlights all the current sales and promotions. Another handy feature is the "Wish List." You can add games you're interested in to your Wish List, and the eShop will notify you when those games go on sale. This is a great way to keep track of potential purchases and avoid missing out on limited-time offers. And don't forget to read user reviews before buying a game, as they can provide valuable insights into the game's quality and gameplay. Lastly, consider creating multiple user profiles on your Switch. This can be useful for sharing games with family members or for taking advantage of regional price differences (more on that later).
Key Strategies to Buy Cheap Digital Nintendo Switch Games
Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some tried-and-true strategies to help you snag those digital games without breaking the bank:
1. Monitor eShop Sales and Promotions
This might seem obvious, but it's worth emphasizing. The Nintendo eShop is constantly running sales and promotions. Make it a habit to check the eShop regularly, especially during major holidays and seasonal events. Nintendo often offers deep discounts on a wide range of games, including first-party titles and indie hits. You can also sign up for Nintendo's email newsletter to receive notifications about new sales and promotions directly in your inbox. This way, you'll never miss out on a potential deal.
2. Utilize Price Comparison Websites
There are several websites dedicated to tracking the prices of digital Nintendo Switch games. These websites aggregate data from various eShops around the world, allowing you to easily compare prices and find the best deals. Some popular price comparison websites include DekuDeals, eShop-Prices, and SaveCoins. These websites allow you to set up price alerts for specific games, so you'll be notified when the price drops below your desired threshold. You can also use these websites to see the historical price data for a game, which can help you determine if a current sale is truly a good deal.
3. Explore Regional eShops
Did you know that game prices can vary significantly between different regional eShops? For example, a game might be cheaper in the Mexican eShop than in the US eShop. By creating multiple Nintendo accounts with different regional settings, you can access these regional eShops and take advantage of the lower prices. Keep in mind that you'll need a valid payment method for the region you're trying to access. Some people use prepaid credit cards or gift cards to get around this limitation. However, be aware that Nintendo's terms of service may prohibit this practice, so proceed with caution. Always double-check that the game supports your preferred language before making a purchase from a foreign eShop.
4. Take Advantage of Nintendo Switch Online
Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) is a subscription service that offers a variety of benefits, including online multiplayer, cloud saves, and access to a library of classic NES and SNES games. But did you know that NSO also offers exclusive deals on digital games? NSO subscribers often receive discounts on select titles, as well as access to exclusive game trials. Additionally, NSO subscribers can purchase Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers, which can be redeemed for two digital games at a discounted price. This is a great way to save money on AAA titles, especially if you're planning to buy multiple games anyway.
5. Consider Buying Pre-Owned Digital Game Codes
While it's not as common as buying pre-owned physical games, you can sometimes find pre-owned digital game codes for sale online. These codes are typically sold by people who have received them as gifts or through promotions but don't want the game. Websites like eBay and online forums can be good places to look for these codes. However, it's important to be cautious when buying from unofficial sources, as there's a risk of purchasing a fraudulent or already-redeemed code. Always check the seller's reputation and read reviews before making a purchase. If possible, use a payment method that offers buyer protection, such as PayPal.
6. Join Gaming Communities and Forums
Online gaming communities and forums can be valuable resources for finding deals on digital Nintendo Switch games. Members often share information about current sales, promotions, and price errors. You can also ask for recommendations or advice from other gamers. Some popular gaming communities include Reddit's r/NintendoSwitchDeals and the Nintendo Age forums. These communities can also be a great place to find out about upcoming game releases and events.
7. Be Patient and Wait for Sales
This might be the hardest strategy for some of us, but patience can really pay off when it comes to buying digital games. If you're not in a rush to play a particular game, consider waiting for it to go on sale. Most games eventually get discounted, especially older titles. By being patient, you can often save a significant amount of money. Use price comparison websites and the eShop's Wish List feature to track the prices of games you're interested in and wait for the right moment to strike.
Other Money-Saving Tips
Here are a few extra tips to help you save even more money on your Nintendo Switch gaming adventures:
- Buy games with friends: Some games offer discounts for buying multiple copies. Coordinate with your friends to take advantage of these offers.
- Trade in physical games: If you have physical games you no longer play, consider trading them in at a local game store or online retailer for store credit or cash. You can then use that credit to buy digital games.
- Use gift cards: Buy Nintendo eShop gift cards at a discount from retailers like Costco or Sam's Club. This can save you a few extra bucks on your purchases.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! A comprehensive guide to buying cheap digital Nintendo Switch games. By following these strategies and tips, you can expand your game library without breaking the bank. Remember to be patient, do your research, and take advantage of all the resources available to you. Happy gaming, and may your Switch always be filled with awesome (and affordable) games!