How can you be sure you’re getting the best deals on video games? It used to be that renting video games was a perfect solution and as cheap and pain-free as visiting your local movie store. Unfortunately avid gamers who rent several games at once discovered how fast those rental fees can add up. Include the injury of failing to return a bundle of games on time and you’ll find that those late fees can really hurt.

Check out these timely tips on getting the best deals on games or game rentals.

First, check with your community library. Most offer free game rentals to their patrons. You probably pre-paid for their offerings with your property taxes so you might as well get your money’s worth.

Game Review Websites – Most websites offering video game reviews include game details, ESRB ratings, available systems, even actual gameplay footage. Check out the video graphics online first. You might find that the game is overly violent for your tastes or not acceptable for your young children, even though the ratings indicate it’s age-appropriate.

Don’t Pay Full Price – With online discount websites like eBay and Amazon, there is just no reason to pay full price ever again. Many times you’ll find games for DS on sale by checking out these websites first.

Rent Video Games Online – Many companies offer online video game rentals for one small monthly fee. Members choose from over 6000 of the latest games, delivered right to their door, can hold them as long as they like, never pay a late fee for keeping them too long, and return games to the company with pre-paid envelopes. If you find a game you like, just tell the company and you can keep it for a small fee. A few sites like GameFly include a free trial period. Check them out to verify how their service works before you join.

Avid gamers who are serious about their passion can save a bundle of money when they know where to look.