Nintendo EShop Sales: Do Games Ever Go On Sale?

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Do Nintendo eShop Games Go On Sale?

Hey there, fellow gamers! Ever wonder if those awesome Nintendo eShop games ever go on sale? The short answer is a resounding yes! Nintendo, like other digital storefronts, frequently offers discounts on a wide variety of games. Understanding when and how these sales happen can save you some serious cash, allowing you to expand your game library without breaking the bank. So, let's dive into the world of Nintendo eShop sales and uncover the secrets to snagging the best deals.

Types of Sales on the Nintendo eShop

The Nintendo eShop features several types of sales events, each with its own rhythm and focus. Recognizing these different types can help you predict when your favorite games might get a price cut. Here’s a rundown:

  • Seasonal Sales: These sales coincide with major holidays or seasonal changes. Think spring, summer, fall, and winter sales. During these periods, you can expect a broad selection of games to be discounted, often with significant savings. For example, the Summer Sale might feature games perfect for long vacation days, while the Winter Sale could include cozy titles ideal for indoor play.
  • Thematic Sales: Nintendo often organizes sales around specific themes, such as indie games, RPG adventures, or action-packed titles. If you have a particular genre you love, keep an eye out for these themed sales. They can be a great way to discover new games that align with your interests.
  • Publisher Sales: Sometimes, individual game publishers will host their own sales events on the eShop. These sales usually feature games from that publisher's catalog, offering discounts on both popular titles and hidden gems. Keep an eye on publishers like Nintendo themselves, Capcom, Square Enix, and Ubisoft for these special promotions.
  • Anniversary Sales: To celebrate the anniversary of a game's release or a significant milestone for a franchise, Nintendo might offer a special sale. These can be more unpredictable but are worth watching out for, especially for long-time fans of specific series.
  • Surprise Sales: Occasionally, Nintendo will surprise us with flash sales or limited-time offers. These sales often appear without much warning and can feature some of the most significant discounts. Staying vigilant and checking the eShop regularly is the best way to catch these surprise deals.

How to Stay Updated on eShop Sales

Keeping track of Nintendo eShop sales requires a bit of effort, but the savings are well worth it. Here are some strategies to stay informed:

  • Check the eShop Regularly: The most straightforward method is to visit the Nintendo eShop on your Switch or through the Nintendo website. The eShop usually prominently displays current sales and promotions on its front page. Make it a habit to browse the eShop every few days to catch any new deals.
  • Sign Up for Nintendo's Newsletter: Nintendo's official newsletter often includes information about upcoming sales and promotions. Subscribing to the newsletter ensures that you receive these updates directly in your inbox. It’s a convenient way to stay in the loop without having to constantly check the eShop.
  • Follow Nintendo on Social Media: Nintendo's social media accounts, such as Twitter and Facebook, are great sources for announcements about sales and other promotions. Following these accounts ensures that you see the latest news as soon as it's released.
  • Use Deal Tracking Websites and Apps: Several websites and apps specialize in tracking game deals across various platforms, including the Nintendo eShop. These tools allow you to create watchlists for specific games and receive notifications when those games go on sale. Some popular options include Deku Deals and PriceCharting.
  • Join Gaming Communities and Forums: Online gaming communities and forums are excellent places to find information about eShop sales. Members often share deals they've found, discuss upcoming sales, and provide tips on how to save money on Nintendo games. Participating in these communities can give you a competitive edge in finding the best deals.

Tips for Maximizing Your Savings

Now that you know how to find Nintendo eShop sales, let's talk about how to maximize your savings. Here are some tips to help you get the most bang for your buck:

  • Create a Wishlist: The Nintendo eShop has a wishlist feature that allows you to save games you're interested in. This makes it easy to keep track of the games you want and see when they go on sale. Regularly check your wishlist to see if any of your desired games have been discounted.
  • Compare Prices: Before making a purchase, take a moment to compare prices on different platforms and retailers. Sometimes, physical copies of games can be cheaper than their digital counterparts, especially during sales events at stores like Amazon, Best Buy, and GameStop. Additionally, check if the game is available on other digital storefronts, as prices may vary.
  • Consider Bundles: Nintendo often offers game bundles that include multiple games or additional content at a discounted price. These bundles can be a great way to get more games for your money, especially if you're interested in multiple titles from the same series or publisher. Look out for bundles during major sales events.
  • Take Advantage of Nintendo Switch Online Vouchers: If you're a Nintendo Switch Online subscriber, you may be eligible to purchase game vouchers. These vouchers can be redeemed for two digital games from a select list, often including new releases and popular titles. If you plan to buy multiple games, using vouchers can result in significant savings.
  • Be Patient: One of the most important tips for saving money on eShop games is to be patient. Games often go on sale multiple times throughout the year, so if a game isn't currently discounted, it's likely to be on sale again in the future. Avoid impulse purchases and wait for the best possible deal.

Common Misconceptions About eShop Sales

There are a few common misconceptions about Nintendo eShop sales that are worth clearing up:

  • Myth: Only Old Games Go on Sale: While it's true that older games are more likely to be discounted, newer titles also go on sale from time to time. Don't assume that you'll never see a discount on a recently released game. Keep an eye on the eShop, as even new games can be included in sales events.
  • Myth: Sales Only Happen During Major Holidays: While major holidays like Black Friday and Christmas are prime times for eShop sales, Nintendo offers discounts throughout the year. Seasonal sales, thematic sales, and publisher sales can happen at any time, so it's important to stay vigilant.
  • Myth: All Games Are Heavily Discounted: The size of the discount can vary widely depending on the game and the type of sale. Some games may be discounted by as much as 50% or more, while others may only see a small price reduction. Don't expect every game to be available at a deep discount.
  • Myth: Sales Prices Are Always the Lowest Prices: While eShop sales often offer competitive prices, it's not always guaranteed that they're the lowest prices available. Always compare prices with other retailers and platforms before making a purchase to ensure you're getting the best deal.

Examples of Past eShop Sales

To give you a better idea of what to expect, here are some examples of past Nintendo eShop sales:

  • Nintendo eShop Summer Sale 2023: This sale featured discounts on a wide range of games, including popular titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Discounts ranged from 30% to 50% off, making it a great opportunity to pick up some must-have games.
  • Nintendo eShop Indie World Sale: This sale focused on indie games and featured discounts on titles like Hollow Knight, Stardew Valley, and Celeste. These indie gems were available at significant discounts, making it a perfect time to discover new and unique gaming experiences.
  • Capcom Publisher Sale: This sale featured games from Capcom's catalog, including titles like Monster Hunter Rise, Resident Evil Village, and Street Fighter V. Fans of Capcom games were able to snag these titles at discounted prices, expanding their collections without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

So, do Nintendo eShop games go on sale? Absolutely! By understanding the different types of sales, staying updated on the latest promotions, and following our tips for maximizing your savings, you can build an impressive Nintendo Switch game library without emptying your wallet. Happy gaming, and may the best deals be ever in your favor!

Pro Tip: Always remember to check multiple sources for sales information and compare prices before making a purchase. Patience and a little bit of research can go a long way in saving money on Nintendo eShop games. Happy gaming, folks!