For those of us who enjoy gaming regularly, the latest releases often catch our attention, especially given all the hype and expectation surrounding the latest offerings. But in Australia, playing our favourite games can be quite a costly experience, due to prices typically being higher than other locations around the world.
This was highlighted towards the end of 2022, amidst news that Xbox games are getting more expensive, after Microsoft announced that prices for upcoming first-party releases would increase in price from 2023 onwards. This includes the huge and eagerly anticipated sci-fi RPG Starfield, plus the next edition of the popular Forza Motorsport series, which are expected to retail for AU$104 apiece in Australia.
While the games industry is booming right now in Australia, when it comes to making decisions around purchasing, price will inevitably become an increasingly important factor for consumers. This begins with the gaming platforms themselves, whether choosing consoles like the Xbox or PlayStation, Windows PC or Apple Mac, and mobile devices such as Nintendo Switch or smartphones, as prices and value can vary significantly between them all.
Just to make things a tad more complicated, many of the leading digital download stores are often region locked, which means that when accessing from Australia, prices are likewise set in our own currency. For example, Steam is now priced in Australian dollars, which means the opportunity to buy cheaper in USD$ or EUR€ has now gone, unless we happen to use VPN and banking options located outside our home country.
Fortunately, there are now more online game stores than ever before. This means the level of competition is much stronger between storefronts, and that’s good news for Aussie gamers, whenever comparing options and prices. Throughout each year, some will have sales and offer certain game titles at heavily discounted prices, which certainly makes it worthwhile shopping around.
Established by the same company that launched Fortnite to widespread acclaim, Epic Games has quickly become an intriguing alternative to Steam, often providing heavily discounted AAA releases. Run by the same people who released the hugely popular Witcher series, GOG also furnishes its digital store with an eclectic mix of classic ‘Good old Games’ and new releases. For console gamers, looking beyond the platform storefronts can also provide better value.
Taking the same approach of comparing options is also recommended for iGaming participants, whenever looking to find the best Australian online casino choices available, based upon the latest reviews from Gamble Online Australia experts. They only recommend operators who are fully licensed by recognised international bodies like the Malta Gaming Authority, along with those offering the best customer service levels and broadest choice of games available.
Likewise, all software and games must comply with the highest standards, including those established by eCOGRA, the leading independent and international testing agency for gambling systems. Such checks and balances are important for online casinos, ensuring that popular games of chance like pokies are transparent and fair. This means displaying the Return to Player (RTP) ratio for payouts, along with clear instructions about gameplay.
Of course, no two casino sites are the same. Some offer exciting promotions and bonuses for games provided, such as free spins for pokies and extra credits for popular table games, including those focused on poker and blackjack or baccarat and roulette. This highlights the additional value of trustworthy reviews, covering all areas in detail and allowing players to enjoy games with increased confidence, along with doing so responsibly.
