How can you be sure you’re getting the best deals on video games? It used to be that renting video games was a great solution and as inexpensive and easy as visiting your local movie store. Unfortunately avid gamers who rent many video games at one time discovered how quickly those rental fees can add up. Add to that the injury of forgeting to return a bunch of games on time and you’ll find that the late fees can really hurt.

Here are some helpful ideas for getting the best deals on games and video game rentals.

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

Game Review Web Sites – Most sites offering video game reviews include game details, ESRB ratings, available systems, even actual gameplay footage. Check out the video graphics online first. You may find that the game is overly violent for your tastes or unacceptable for your small children, even if the ESRB ratings indicate it should be age-appropriate.

Don’t Pay Full Price – With online discount companies like eBay and Amazon, there’s just no reason to pay retail ever again. Many times you’ll find games for PSP on sale by looking at these sites first.

Rent Video Games Online – Many companies offer online game rentals for one small monthly price. Members select from over 6000 of the latest games, delivered right to their door, can keep them as long as they like, never pay a late fee for holding them too long, and return them to the company with postage-paid envelopes. If you find a game you like, simply tell the company and you can keep it for a small price. A few vendors include a free trial period. Try them out to see how the service works before you commit.

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