3. When you reach the store be sure to spend time reading the labels, looking at the game art, and checking the ESRB rating. This is a step the majority of parents overlook or do not take seriously. By reading the labels you get a quick description of the game content, you will be surprised how useful these labels are. The independent video game developers, Pandemic Studios and BioWare Corporation, have sold out to Electronic Arts Incorporated. Already two top independent video game reviewer body, the Entertainment Software Rating Board, place ratings on every video game box. Do not overlook this rating and the accompanying content descriptions because rest assured, the ESRB will not lie. Their descriptions are clear when describing potential violent situations that could occur during gameplay. Their ratings are self-explanatory and follow a similar system as movies. The rating symbols and recommended audiences are: "E" is for Everyone, "eC" denotes Early Childhood, "E10+" Everyone 10 and up, "T" marks Teens 13 and up, "M" Mature rating for ages 17 and up, "AO" is Adults Only, and finally "RP" means Rating Pending. Once again, you are the best judge regarding the maturity level of your kid, perhaps a rating of "T" for teen is too much for them to handle. 1. Check out local ads & local sellers for a cheap video game By now, you know exactly what you want and how much it would cost to buy what you want. At this point, go to your favorite auction site and do a search. I bet you will find a great deal! That alone just saved you quite a bit