A Frugalist’s Guide to Buying and Owning a PS3
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Looking to get the hottest selling video game console of 2009 and want to practice frugality while doing so? Here a guide that I’ve created from my experiences of purchasing a PS3 system along with games and accessories. I hope these tips will help you with reducing the stress on your wallet.
Getting the System
Very few major retailers will offer a lower price than retail for a video game console. So, always head over to sites such as Fatwallet.com or Bensbargains.net to see if there are any recent discounts for a PS3 system. Dell or Newegg would occasionally reduce prices or provide coupon codes for the PS3.
In addition to that, those two sites are participating in cashback programs at Bing or Fatwallet., which means more savings for you. Whatever the deal may be during the period you are looking to purchase a PS3, take it or wait for a possible better deal. Just make sure you are not paying retail.
Getting the Games
Don’t ever think about buying a new game ever again. Why? Because you are paying extra just for the “new” and the plastic seal. Take a look at a previous post of mine about how used video games are perfectly fine. Go find some used games or pre-owned games and don’t pay full price for them. Remember: you can always sell games that you no longer play.
Another option would be to rent video games through Blockbuster or Gamefly. Be sure that you are (or going to be) an avid gamer to make it worth the membership fees.
Getting the Accessories
In order to maximize your PS3 gaming experience, the right accessories make a difference. And they, too, do not have to cost you a fortune. Here’s how you can save on these must-have PS3 accessories:
- HDMI/Component cables. A PS3 exists for high definition gaming so it is essential to get the cables that will permit 720p (for games) and 1080 (for Blu-ray) playability. You do not need to buy cables from the overpriced Monster brand. Visit Monoprice.com for HDMI/component cables that cost less than $10. They work just as well as the $100 cables.
- Controllers. Like getting the PS3 system, controllers don’t always go below retail. Again, just look for the best deal possible and remember to get cashback when possible.
- Bluetooth headset. The official Sony PS3 headset costs $50 retail and it is totally worth it but you don’t have to pay that much. Instead of buying just the headset, look for the game bundles that come with the official headset. The two bundles you should look for are those with Warhawk or Tom Clancy’s EndWar. Check them out at eBay or Amazon and you should be able to get a bundle for less than $40. After that, you can sell the game alone for at least $10 and save even more money on the Bluetooth headset that you keep.
How Much You Can Save
Depending on your perseverance and some luck, you may come across some amazing deals and you could be saving hundreds, if not thousands, over the course of owning your PS3. At the least, you should save $100 by the time you’ve made your first several PS3-related purchases and $100 can buy plenty of games that can last you quite a while.
Just some advice of caution: it is easy to become addicted to video games, which would result in compulsive spending. Here’s something that’ll keep you from running through your games too fast – many previous PS3 owners have burned out their systems after playing for hours on end. Take care and maintain your system to prolong the life of this precious toy. (Hint: keep the system cool!)
(Photo credit: DeclanTM)
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