I love gaming. I love how it gives you many things; an escape from the world around you, something fun to do with friends that are visiting, a way to make new friends, a deeper way of thought (depending on the game). All these things are what I get from an evening (or day on the rare occasion) of gaming. I love it so much that I really dive into the world of it, getting to know the developers, reading magazines, and trying out different genres to broaden my horizons. It really can be, and is, a lifestyle. And that's where it can be a problem, especially if you're without a career job...
Gaming can get extremely expensive, even more so of you're trying to do a blog on gaming. Most games, on the usual Tuesday release, are gonna cost you $60 (plus tax) a piece. That can be a real pain and fast. I average about $64 for a new game every time I buy one, which sadly is limited because my paycheck says that I can't afford that. Then I start to fall behind the times and am not up-to-date on anything. It can really suck.
To add on to the suck is the online multiplayer aspect. Now, if you're lucky and you got a PS3, then you're part of the world where your online multiplayer is free over Playstation Network. To you, I say, "Shove it." If you're like me and you have the slightly more popular XBOX 360 then you're paying a subscription for LIVE. That cost can vary between $8/month, $30/3months, $60/year. I was lucky and grabbed a deal for a year of LIVE for $37. They'll usually have those deals floating about when certain big name releases are coming out for 360. Be on the look out, otherwise your wallet may revolt.
Now, one might wonder, how in the Hell are you supposed to pay for all other costs of living when the gaming costs are so high? I'll tell you.
I counteract a majority of gaming costs by getting a Gamefly subscription. $22 bucks a month allows me 2 games out at a time, especially new releases. A lot cheaper than $60 bucks a week. Yay!! Only downfall is that their stock of new releases tends to fall short and you're left waiting a few days before they can get you the new one. Boo!!
Another good place to look is through your local used game store(s). These guys are awesome for two reasons: get a used game (from almost any system Nintendo and up) for a decent price, and you can trade in that piece of $@&# game you bought on Tuesday for credit towards that used one you really want. Joy!! Most people go through Gamestop or EB Games (are they even around anymore?) at the local mall. Otherwise, you can check out the newest gaming store in your area. They're popping up all the time. I have 2 in my town.
So, while the cost of gaming can be pretty extensive (not a typo), there are ways around it. You just gotta look for them.
Now computer gaming is a different story...
