Pre-ordering games can indeed be a gamble. With the potential for games to launch unfinished, requiring day-one patches, and facing broken launches, it's no wonder many gamers are hesitant. However, not all pre-orders are doomed to disappoint. In fact, pre-ordering digital game keys can be a savvy strategy, especially when you know where to shop.

We've partnered with Eneba to explore why and how preparing your game purchases in advance can be a wise decision.

You’ll Pay Less Than on Release Day

A common misconception about pre-ordering is that you'll pay full price. But, by purchasing a digital game key from a reputable marketplace like Eneba, you can often secure a significant discount before the game even hits the shelves. With AAA titles now costing $70+ at launch, pre-ordering at Eneba can get you the same game for much less, sometimes 10-30% off the official store prices. Instead of waiting months for a sale, you can lock in a lower price before the game even drops.

Avoiding Launch-Day Price Increases

One of the perks of digital pre-orders from digital marketplaces is that as the hype for a game grows, so can the price as launch day nears. If a game is generating massive anticipation, the demand for game keys surges, and prices can increase even before the release, often matching the standard market price. Waiting too long might mean you end up paying the full price as everyone else. By locking in your price early, you secure the best deal before demand drives it up, ensuring you get the game at a discount rather than scrambling for a last-minute deal.

Older Games Cost Way Less

Digital marketplaces offer a significant advantage when it comes to the price of older games. While new releases can be pricey, games that have been out for a year or more often see their prices drop dramatically – sometimes as much as 70-80% off their original price. If you're not fixated on playing on day one, waiting a bit can save you a substantial amount of money while still allowing you to enjoy top-tier gaming experiences.

Whether it's an award-winning single-player adventure, a competitive multiplayer game, or a beloved indie gem, older titles remain just as enjoyable, but without the hefty price tag. Even complete editions, packed with DLCs and expansions, are usually cheaper than buying just the base game at launch. With digital game keys, there's no downside to waiting – the game is always in stock, and the price just keeps getting better. Patience pays off, and your backlog will thank you.

So, if you're confident about a game, pre-ordering a digital key from a trusted marketplace like Eneba means you can save money before launch, get access instantly on release day, and avoid launch-day price increases. It just makes sense.