A Roundup of Black Friday and Cyber Monday Video Game Deals – The Mercury News

Every year, Black Friday and Cyber Monday bring some of the biggest discounts on video games, consoles, and accessories, making it the perfect time for gamers to score incredible deals. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore enthusiast, grabbing the best offers on the latest and classic titles can save you a ton of money. In this detailed roundup curated by The Mercury News, we’ll highlight the top deals, explain where to shop, and share expert tips to make sure you maximize your savings this holiday shopping season.

Why Black Friday and Cyber Monday Are Perfect for Video Game Deals

Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) and Cyber Monday (the Monday following) have become synonymous with deep discounts across retail categories, and the video game industry is no exception. Retailers – from online giants like Amazon and Best Buy to traditional stores like Walmart and GameStop – offer unprecedented markdowns on consoles, games, and gaming gear.

• Exclusive bundles: Get consoles paired with popular games at discounted prices.
• Price drops on new releases: Discounts on recently launched titles often appear for the first time.
• Accessory sales: Save on controllers, headsets, and gaming chairs.
• Digital game deals: Limited time offers on platforms like PlayStation Store, Xbox Marketplace, and Steam.

Top Black Friday and Cyber Monday Video Game Deals to Watch

1. Consoles and Hardware

Console deals are always highly sought after during these sales events. Here are some expected standouts:

• PlayStation 5: Bundles including PS5 console + popular exclusives like Spider-Man: Miles Morales or Demon’s Souls.
• Xbox Series X and Series S: Deals on consoles, plus subscriptions for Xbox Game Pass at discounted rates.
• Nintendo Switch: Price cuts on the console and game bundles featuring hits like Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
• Gaming PCs and accessories: Look for deals on gaming monitors, graphics cards, and peripherals from brands such as Razer and Logitech.

2. Video Games – Physical and Digital

Whether you prefer a physical copy or digital downloads, there’s no shortage of game discounts:

• AAA Titles: Blockbusters like Call of Duty, Assassin’s Creed, and FIFA series offer big price cuts.
• Indie Games: Discover hidden gems with steep discounts that make their brilliant gameplay even sweeter.
• Subscription discounts: Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, and Nintendo Switch Online often roll out deals on memberships.
• Seasonal sales on digital storefronts: Steam and Epic Games Store feature flash sales that can save you up to 80%.

3. Accessories and Gear

Don’t miss out on the essential gear that enhances any gaming setup:

• Wireless controllers and charging stations
• Gaming headsets with surround sound
• RGB backlit keyboards and mice
• Comfortable gaming chairs

Where to Find the Best Deals in 2024

The Mercury News recommends keeping an eye on these top retailers for verified and competitive Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals on video games:

1. Amazon: Often leads with early Black Friday deals and lightning sales.
2. Best Buy: Known for console bundles and open-box offers.
3. GameStop: Special trade-in offers and exclusive drops.
4. Walmart: Big discounts and free shipping options.
5. Target: Often combines deals with gift cards and promotions.
6. Official platform stores: Look for PlayStation Store, Xbox Marketplace, Nintendo eShop holiday sales.

Practical Tips to Maximize Your Black Friday and Cyber Monday Video Game Purchases

Shopping for video games during such busy sales events can get overwhelming. Here’s how to stay savvy and snag unbeatable deals:

• Make a wish list: Prioritize your favorite games, consoles, or accessories to avoid impulse buys.
• Compare prices: Use deal aggregator websites or browser extensions to track the best offers in real-time.
• Sign up for newsletters: Retailers often send exclusive offers to subscribers before the general public.
• Check return policies: Know the deadlines and conditions for returns/exchanges—especially for holiday gifts.
• Act fast: Popular items like PS5 bundles sell out quickly; set alarms or shop as early as possible.
• Use cashback and credit card offers: Take advantage of additional savings through special promotions.

First-Hand Experience: Navigating Last Year’s Deals

Last year’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday were a whirlwind for gamers trying to secure top discounts. Many gamers shared stories about landing fantastic deals on limited stock items like the Xbox Series X and premium gaming headsets for 30-50% off.

One gamer’s experience highlighted the benefit of early preparation: by setting up accounts on multiple retailers and saving payment info in advance, they completed several purchases in under ten minutes — before items sold out. Others noted that relying solely on physical stores was limiting, and shopping online during Cyber Monday yielded better stock and deeper discounts.

These experiences underscore the importance of planning, speed, and flexibility during this shopping bonanza.

Benefits of Shopping Video Game Deals During Black Friday & Cyber Monday

It’s important to recognize why shopping during these mega sale events benefits gamers beyond just saving money:

• Affordability: Access to new games and consoles at prices that might otherwise be unobtainable.
• Gift opportunity: Perfect time to grab holiday gifts for friends and family who love gaming.
• Upgrade potential: Step up your existing setup without blowing your budget—be it a faster controller or enhanced headset.
• Diversity: Try new genres or indie titles that seem less financially risky with discount pricing.

Stay Updated with The Mercury News

For continuous updates on the most current Black Friday and Cyber Monday video game deals throughout 2024, stay tuned to The Mercury News online. We provide timely, accurate information and expert insights to empower your gaming purchases and ensure a rewarding holiday shopping experience.