Cheap Nintendo Digital Games: A Guide To Saving Money

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Cheap Nintendo Digital Games: A Guide to Saving Money

Hey there, fellow Nintendo fans! Are you looking to expand your digital game library without breaking the bank? You've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll explore various strategies and tips to help you snag those Nintendo digital games at the cheapest prices possible. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the Nintendo scene, there's something here for everyone. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's dive in!

Why Buy Digital Games on Nintendo?

Before we jump into the savings, let's quickly touch on why digital games are so appealing in the first place. The Nintendo eShop offers a plethora of benefits, making it a popular choice for gamers worldwide.

  • Convenience is Key: Digital games eliminate the need for physical cartridges. You can purchase and download games directly to your Nintendo Switch from the comfort of your couch. No more trips to the store or worrying about losing your game cards! It’s all about instant gratification, guys.
  • Game Sales and Deals: The eShop is constantly offering sales and promotions on a wide selection of games. This is where you can find some truly amazing deals if you keep your eyes peeled. Nintendo frequently hosts seasonal sales, publisher spotlights, and surprise discounts, making it worth checking the eShop regularly.
  • Pre-loading: For highly anticipated titles, the eShop often allows you to pre-load the game before its official release date. This means you can start playing the moment the game unlocks, without waiting for a lengthy download process. That’s a huge win for those who can't wait to jump into the action!
  • Digital-Only Titles: Some games are exclusively available on the eShop and never get a physical release. These indie gems and unique experiences are a great way to discover something new and different. You wouldn't want to miss out on these hidden treasures!
  • Environmentally Friendly: By choosing digital over physical, you're reducing waste from packaging and transportation. It's a small step, but every little bit helps in making our gaming habits more sustainable.

Strategies for Finding Cheap Nintendo Digital Games

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here are some tried-and-true methods for finding cheap Nintendo digital games:

1. Monitor the Nintendo eShop Sales Regularly

This might seem obvious, but it's the most fundamental step. The Nintendo eShop has a dedicated section for sales and special offers. Make it a habit to browse this section regularly, as new deals are added frequently. Pay attention to the duration of the sale, as some deals are only available for a limited time. You can sort the list by discount percentage to see the most heavily discounted games first. Also, don't just focus on the big names; sometimes, the best deals are on indie games you might not have heard of before.

  • Tips for eShop Monitoring:
    • Set a daily or weekly reminder to check the eShop.
    • Use the eShop's search filters to narrow down games by genre, price, or user rating.
    • Check out the "Great Deals" and "Under $10" sections for budget-friendly options.

2. Utilize Price Tracking Websites and Apps

Manually checking the eShop every day can be time-consuming. Thankfully, there are several websites and apps that track Nintendo eShop prices and notify you when games go on sale. These tools can save you a ton of time and effort. Some popular options include:

  • Deku Deals: This website allows you to create a wishlist of games and receive email notifications when those games go on sale. You can also view historical price data to see if a game has been cheaper in the past.
  • eShop-Prices: This site provides a comprehensive list of games and their current prices in different regions. You can also compare prices across multiple eShops to find the best deal.
  • Nintendo eShop Sales Tracker: Available as a website and mobile app, this tool tracks sales and price drops in various eShops.

3. Explore Different Regional eShops

The Nintendo eShop is available in various regions, such as North America, Europe, and Japan. Prices can vary between these regions, so it's worth checking different eShops to see if you can find a better deal. However, keep in mind that you may need to create a separate Nintendo Account for each region, and there might be restrictions on which games you can play based on your region. Always be careful when switching regions and make sure you understand the potential consequences.

  • How to Access Different Regional eShops:
    1. Create a new Nintendo Account and set the region to the desired country.
    2. On your Nintendo Switch, go to System Settings > System > Region and change it to the same country as your new Nintendo Account.
    3. Restart your Nintendo Switch.
    4. Open the eShop and sign in with your new Nintendo Account.

4. Take Advantage of Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service that offers a range of benefits, including online multiplayer, cloud saves, and access to a library of classic Nintendo games. The Expansion Pack tier also includes access to Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis games. While it's not directly related to buying cheap digital games, the subscription provides a lot of value for the cost, especially if you enjoy playing online with friends or reliving retro classics. Plus, subscribers often get exclusive deals and discounts on select digital games.

  • Nintendo Switch Online Benefits:
    • Online multiplayer for compatible games.
    • Cloud saves for backing up your game data.
    • Access to a library of classic NES and Super NES games.
    • Exclusive deals and discounts on select digital games.
    • Expansion Pack tier includes Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis games.

5. Consider Buying Used Digital Game Codes

While this option isn't officially supported by Nintendo, you can sometimes find used digital game codes for sale on online marketplaces or forums. Be very cautious when considering this option, as there's a risk of buying a code that's already been redeemed or is invalid. Only buy from reputable sellers with positive feedback, and always double-check the code before making a purchase. It’s a bit of a gamble, but some gamers have found success with this method. Just be smart and careful, alright?

6. Participate in Social Media Giveaways and Contests

Many gaming websites, influencers, and Nintendo fan communities host giveaways and contests where you can win free digital game codes. Follow these accounts on social media and keep an eye out for opportunities to enter. While the odds of winning might be slim, it's a fun way to potentially score a free game. Plus, you might discover new games or communities you weren't aware of before. It's a win-win situation!

7. Check for Bundles and Special Editions

Sometimes, Nintendo offers bundles or special editions of consoles that include digital game downloads. These bundles can be a great value if you're looking to buy a new console and want to get some games along with it. Keep an eye out for these bundles, especially during the holiday season or when new consoles are released. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone!

Final Thoughts

Finding cheap Nintendo digital games requires a bit of patience and effort, but it's definitely possible with the right strategies. By regularly monitoring the eShop, utilizing price tracking tools, exploring different regional eShops, taking advantage of Nintendo Switch Online, and considering used digital game codes, you can expand your game library without emptying your wallet. So go forth, fellow gamers, and happy hunting for those sweet Nintendo digital game deals! Remember to always stay vigilant, do your research, and have fun while you're at it. Now go level up your savings!