Find Cheap Nintendo EShop Games: Reddit Tips & Tricks
Are you on the hunt for cheap eShop games and wondering what Reddit has to say? You've come to the right place! This article dives deep into the treasure trove of information Reddit users share about snagging the best deals on Nintendo eShop games. We'll explore various strategies, tips, and tricks discussed on Reddit to help you build your game library without breaking the bank. Let's get started, gamers!
Why Reddit is a Goldmine for eShop Deals
Reddit, the self-proclaimed "front page of the internet," is more than just memes and cat videos. It's a vibrant community where gamers unite to share their experiences, offer advice, and, most importantly for us, reveal the secrets to finding cheap games. Several subreddits are dedicated to gaming deals, price tracking, and Nintendo specifically. These communities act as real-time deal aggregators, where users post discovered discounts, sales, and even pricing errors that can save you a significant amount of money. Imagine a massive group of eagle-eyed shoppers all working together to find the best prices – that's essentially what these subreddits are! The collective knowledge and rapid information sharing on Reddit make it an invaluable resource for any budget-conscious gamer looking to expand their Nintendo eShop collection. Plus, you often get firsthand accounts of whether a game is actually worth the discounted price, avoiding potential buyer's remorse. You will gain access to a wealth of gaming knowledge by diving into Reddit and actively participating in the conversation; you can get personalized recommendations and learn about hidden jewels you would not have discovered otherwise. This collaborative atmosphere makes Reddit an essential tool for any gamer trying to get the most out of their gaming budget.
Top Reddit Tips for Finding eShop Deals
So, how do you actually use Reddit to find cheap eShop games? Reddit users have developed several strategies over the years. Here are some of the most effective, according to Reddit:
1. Subreddits to Follow
The first step is finding the right communities. Here are some of the most popular and helpful subreddits for Nintendo eShop deals:
- /r/NintendoSwitchDeals: This is the big one! A dedicated subreddit solely focused on Nintendo Switch game deals. Expect to find posts about eShop sales, physical game discounts, and even deals on Nintendo hardware.
- /r/eShop: As the name suggests, this subreddit focuses on deals specific to the Nintendo eShop. It covers various regions, so be sure to filter by your region to see relevant deals.
- /r/gamedeals: A more general subreddit covering deals on all gaming platforms, including Nintendo Switch. Use the search function to filter for Nintendo-specific deals.
- /r/NintendoSwitch: While not exclusively for deals, this subreddit often features users sharing great finds and price drops.
- /r/patientgamers: Great if you're not in a rush to play the newest games. Users discuss and recommend older titles that are often available at heavily discounted prices.
Joining these subreddits and actively monitoring new posts is crucial. Set up notifications so you don't miss out on limited-time deals or flash sales. Remember to engage with the community! Ask questions, share your own finds, and contribute to discussions.
2. Utilize Price Tracking Websites
Reddit users often recommend using price tracking websites to monitor game prices and receive alerts when they drop. These websites aggregate data from the eShop and other retailers, providing a comprehensive overview of price history. Some popular options include:
- Deku Deals: This website is specifically designed for Nintendo games. You can create a wishlist, track prices, and receive email notifications when games on your list go on sale. Deku Deals also provides price history charts, allowing you to see how low a game has been in the past.
- PriceCharting: While not exclusive to Nintendo, PriceCharting tracks the prices of video games across various platforms and retailers. It's a useful tool for comparing prices and identifying potential deals, especially on physical games.
- CamelCamelCamel: Primarily known for tracking Amazon prices, CamelCamelCamel can also be used to monitor the prices of physical Nintendo Switch games sold on Amazon. Setting up price alerts can help you snag a deal when the price drops below your desired threshold.
Reddit users often share their experiences with these price tracking websites, providing tips on how to use them effectively. For example, some users recommend setting aggressive price alerts to ensure they don't miss out on flash sales or limited-time offers. Others suggest using price history charts to identify the best time to buy a particular game.
3. Take Advantage of Regional eShop Differences
Did you know that eShop prices can vary between different regions? Savvy Reddit users often exploit these regional differences to find cheap eShop games. For example, a game might be on sale in the Mexican eShop but not in the US eShop. Creating accounts in different regions and purchasing games from the cheapest region is possible. However, be aware of the potential risks involved:
- Currency conversion fees: Your bank may charge currency conversion fees when purchasing games from a different region.
- Game compatibility: While most Nintendo Switch games are region-free, some DLC or online features may be region-locked.
- Account restrictions: Nintendo's terms of service may prohibit creating multiple accounts or purchasing games from different regions. Proceed with caution and do your research before attempting this strategy.
Reddit users often share their experiences with regional eShop hopping, providing tips on how to minimize risks and maximize savings. Some users recommend using prepaid credit cards or gift cards to avoid currency conversion fees. Others suggest creating separate user profiles for each region to avoid account conflicts. Always check the game's compatibility and region restrictions before purchasing from a different region.
4. Keep an Eye Out for Flash Sales and Promotions
Nintendo frequently runs flash sales and promotions on the eShop, offering significant discounts on various games. These sales are often unannounced and last for a limited time, so it's crucial to stay informed. Reddit is an excellent place to hear about these sales as soon as they go live. Look for posts with titles like "eShop Flash Sale!" or "Hidden Gems on Sale!". These posts often contain a list of discounted games and their prices.
In addition to flash sales, Nintendo also runs regular promotions tied to specific events or holidays. For example, you might find a sale on RPGs during the summer or a discount on horror games during Halloween. Keep an eye on the Nintendo website and social media channels for announcements about these promotions. Reddit users often share information about upcoming sales and promotions, providing a heads-up on potential deals.
5. Consider Used Physical Copies
While this article focuses on digital games, don't forget about the option of buying used physical copies. Reddit users often discuss the benefits of buying used games, including lower prices and the ability to resell them after you're done playing. Check out local game stores, online marketplaces like eBay and Facebook Marketplace, and even Reddit's own /r/gamesale subreddit for deals on used physical copies. Just be sure to inspect the game carefully before buying to ensure it's in good condition.
Reddit Etiquette: Being a Good Deal Hunter
While you're scouring Reddit for cheap eShop games, it's essential to be a good community member. Here are some basic Reddit etiquette tips:
- Search before posting: Before asking a question or sharing a deal, use the search function to see if it's already been discussed. This helps avoid duplicate posts and keeps the subreddit organized.
- Be respectful: Treat other users with respect, even if you disagree with their opinions. Avoid personal attacks, insults, or offensive language.
- Follow the subreddit rules: Each subreddit has its own set of rules, so be sure to read and follow them. This helps ensure that the subreddit remains a welcoming and informative community.
- Upvote helpful posts: If you find a post that's particularly helpful or informative, upvote it to show your appreciation. This helps promote valuable content and makes it easier for other users to find it.
- Report rule violations: If you see a post that violates the subreddit rules, report it to the moderators. This helps keep the subreddit clean and safe.
Conclusion: Level Up Your Savings with Reddit!
Finding cheap eShop games doesn't have to be a daunting task. By tapping into the collective knowledge of the Reddit community and utilizing the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can build your Nintendo Switch library without emptying your wallet. Remember to follow the right subreddits, use price tracking websites, consider regional eShop differences, and keep an eye out for flash sales and promotions. And most importantly, be a good community member by following Reddit etiquette. So, go forth and conquer the eShop, armed with the power of Reddit! Happy gaming, guys!