How can you be sure you’re getting the best price on video games? It used to be that renting video games was a perfect solution and as cheap and pain-free as a visit to your local movie store. Unfortunately avid gamers who rent several games at one time discovered how quickly those rental costs can add up. Add to that the injury of failing to return a stack of games on time and you’ll see that the late fees can really hurt.

Check out these helpful hints for getting the best deal on video games and game rentals.

First, check out your local library. Many offer free video game rentals to the community. You probably paid for their offerings with your taxes so you may as well get your money’s worth.

Game Review Websites - Most sites offering video game reviews include game details, ESRB ratings, available platforms, even actual game footage. Check out the video graphics online first. You may find the game is too violent for your tastes or unacceptable for your small children, even though the ESRB ratings indicate it should be appropriate.

Never Pay Retail - With online discount websites like eBay and Amazon, there’s simply no reason to pay full price ever again. Many times you’ll find games for Playstation on sale by checking these sites first.

Rent Games Online - Many companies offer online game rentals for a low monthly price. Members choose from over 6000 of the most popular games, delivered right to their door, can keep them as long as they like, never pay late fees for holding them too long, and return them to the company with postage-paid envelopes. If you find a game you like, simply notify the company and you can keep it for a small price. Some companies offer a free trial period. Check them out to verify how the program works before you commit.

Game enthusiasts who are serious about their hobby can save a bundle of money if they know where to look.