How can you be sure you’re getting the lowest cost video games? It used to be that renting video games was a great solution and as cheap and pain-free as visiting your local movie rental store. But serious game enthusiasts who rent many games at once found how quickly those rental costs can add up. Add to that the heart ache of failing to return a bunch of games by the due date and you’ll find that those late fees can really cost you.

Here are some timely tips on getting the best deals on video games and game rentals.

First, check with your local library. Most offer free video game rentals to their patrons. You already paid for their selections with your taxes so you may as well get your money’s worth.

Video Game Review Websites - Many websites offering video game reviews include game details, ESRB ratings, available platforms, even actual gameplay footage. Check out the video graphics online first. You might find the game is too violent for your appetite or unacceptable for your own children, even if the ratings indicate it should be appropriate.

Don’t Pay Full Price - With online discount websites like eBay and Amazon, there’s just no reason to pay full price ever again. Many times you’ll find games for PlayStation 3 on sale by checking these companies first.

Rent Games Online - Quite a few companies offer online video game rentals for a small monthly subscription. Members select from over 6000 of the latest games, delivered right to their home, can hold them as long as they wish, never pay late fees for keeping them too long, and return games to the company with postage-paid envelopes. If you find a game you like, just notify the company and you can keep it for a small fee. A few companies offer a free trial period. Try them out to verify how their program works before you commit.

Gamers who are serious about their hobby can save a bundle of money if they know where to find them.