Playing video games can be a notoriously expensive hobby, whether or not you are a console, PC, or smartphone gamer. Both the video games themselves and the equipment you need to play them are costly investments. These prices encourage gamers to save a quick buck whenever they can.

Those looking for cheaper alternatives to the Steam and the PlayStation Store may know about G2A. G2A offers game codes at low prices. While it's tempting to use, you might be wondering why the games are so cheap? Is it a scam? Or are these games legitimate?

What Is G2A?

G2A Library

G2A is an online marketplace designed for gamers. While it does sell physical items like controllers and webcams, it is best known for its cheap online codes. G2A has a wide selection of codes for both memberships and video games.

While the site does sell codes for console games, most of its selection caters to computer players via Steam codes. Steam codes are safe and easy to use.

What is important to note is that G2A doesn't sell products. Rather, it's closer to eBay, offering a platform for people to sell unused codes for a small fee. This model means you purchase through independent sellers rather than the site itself.

G2A may seem sketchy, but using the site is perfectly legal. However, how your sellers obtained codes is another story.

There are a few stories circulating online about people who accidentally used stolen codes for games on their Nintendo Switch and had to deal with Nintendo customer service after facing online bans.

For the most part, the codes are legally obtained. The people selling them online are often large companies with many copies of the code rather than individuals trying to get rid of games they accidentally had a duplicate of.

While G2A is perfectly legal, there are debates over whether or not using the site is ethical. This controversy is especially true when discussing indie titles.

Why Is G2A So Cheap?

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Sellers that use legally obtained codes normally get them during mass sales. If they see a popular game has a two day Steam sale of 50 percent off, they buy large numbers of the game and resell each one for a slightly higher price (which is nonetheless lower than RRP).

Customers get the game cheaper than market value, and sellers make a significant profit when they sell many copies of a game.

This model also means that developers get much less money for their games. While large companies have a lot of money, small indie developers could really use the support.

There is also a benefit from locations outside of the United States and Canada. Steam prices are not consistent across countries. They vary according to currency conversion and local incomes. In other words, countries with lower average incomes have lower steam prices to reflect a reasonable price.

These overseas sellers are able to obtain the codes at a much lower price-point on average. Adding a sale on top allows them to sell codes at dirt-cheap prices and still make some money.

Are There Risks To Using G2A?

video games

As with dealing with any online sellers, there are some risks that come with using G2A.

For one thing, you do not always get a working code. While you can trust well-reviewed sellers for the most part and request refunds, you still risk ending up with an unusable code.

You also run the risk of using a stolen code that compromises your account on stricter platforms. Of course, most companies, including Nintendo, are sympathetic to the situation and will help get your accounts running again. It is still a hassle you want to avoid, especially if a malicious code compromises your financial credentials.

There are also some technicalities you really need to watch out for. Certain specifications or terms may mean you can't use the code. Purchasing the wrong one because you misread something means you're out of luck. G2A doesn't have to give you back the money, and you are at the mercy of your seller, who is often not very reasonable when it comes to mistakes.

How To Shop Safely on G2A

A woman playing a game, holding a wireless controller

G2A is a great way to find games and save money as long as you do it properly. There are many simple tips you can follow to make sure you are getting the most out of the experience while taking the appropriate measures to protect yourself.

Before you purchase anything, be sure the software is compatible with your device. There are many different things that can make a code completely useless to you. There are some main factors you should look for.

  • Does this game require extra software? It's easy to mistake DLC for a cheap version of the main game. Be sure to double-check the exact software you are buying. If you purchase a DLC set alone, it is unplayable. This may also be something you want to consider when researching the version of the software you want. A complete edition may be cheaper than purchasing the discounted game and DLCs separately.
  • Is this download code for the correct device? Especially if you are buying for a console, it is easy to mistake an Xbox One code for a PlayStation code. While you're at it, make sure that the game can run on your computer if you are a PC gamer.
  • Check that the code works in your region. Some codes are not universal and require a specific geographic location. You don't want to accidentally purchase a game for your American account to find out later on it only works in Europe.
  • Only purchase from reputable sellers. Even if a sale looks really good, it's not a smart idea to purchase from a seller with a history of negative feedback. Read the reviews people leave on seller profiles and take them seriously.

Remember, there are other ways to save money on games.

Should I Use G2A?

If you are looking for a great way to buy cheap games, G2A is a great place. They have a wide selection of online codes for you to use on your consoles.

While it's not the best way to show your favorite small studios support, it is a safe tool to help fuel your video game hobbies on a budget.