Video games are expensive toys. While many go down in price after some time, teens tend to want to the newest video games available as soon as possible. This isn't necessarily bad, as long as it will be a game that they will enjoy and play for some time after it is purchased because unlike other things, video games can't be returned to the store after they have been played if your teen decides they don't like it.
Many movie rental stores also have a video game rental option. Give them a call and see if they carry the game your teen is looking to buy. Let your teen try out the game before purchasing to see if they enjoy it and save a few dollars on games they don't like. Or, if your teen is really into playing video games, try online video game rental at GameFly.com or GameRang.com.
More: Money Saving Tips for Families | Save Money on DVDs
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Many movie rental stores also have a video game rental option. Give them a call and see if they carry the game your teen is looking to buy. Let your teen try out the game before purchasing to see if they enjoy it and save a few dollars on games they don't like. Or, if your teen is really into playing video games, try online video game rental at GameFly.com or GameRang.com.
More: Money Saving Tips for Families | Save Money on DVDs
Follow the About.com Parenting & Family's Thrifty Thursday:
Another idea is to have them borrow a video game from a friend and let the friend do the same with your son or daughter. Kids do this all the time with books so there’s no reason they shouldn’t do the same with games. Also, lots of games are free online and have free promotional game points available to get you started before you have to start paying for the points.