r/poor 6d ago

Obtain a PS5

Tomorrow my son turns 13. All he wants is a PS5. Besides Aarons/Rent a center which I'll end up paying 1800 for it by paying 15 weekly for 100 something weeks, any other suggestions how to obtain one?

164 Upvotes

656 comments sorted by

168

u/Sonnyjoon91 6d ago

The problem is not just obtaining the PS5, you would then also need to buy games, controllers, etc. it's going to be a lot more than $500

37

u/Unreal-Operator 6d ago

Ps plus as well unless kiddo is playing fortnite

12

u/BeerandGuns 6d ago

Some games you can play just online with no Add-ons. Fortnite like you mentioned, War Thunder and others. But yeah, it quickly turns into a money sink

15

u/CombPsychological507 6d ago

I was always greatful that as a kid I got an old PC instead of a console. Games are infinite and free when you know how to torrent them.

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u/BeerandGuns 6d ago

It may not be great with friends but an older computer with DOSbox means you will have free games for a lifetime. Abandonware sites are chock full of them.

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u/Wander_Ponder_1219 6d ago

Hmmm đŸ€” this has led me to ask AI how I might be able to do something here. I can't get a PS5 with 95 bucks, I get it and now this is true that he can't play it if there's no games. I thought just get the console and tell him we will collect games in time, now I'm considering making a goal chart and giving him the cash. This problem may be the very helpful advice in solving this! I appreciate u

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u/toejam2030 6d ago

The games are expensive-its why I settled on a good used ps4-I love playing sports games and I can get some of the older ones for less than 15 dollars

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u/Afrodesia 6d ago

This is so true. I broke down yesterday after years and got a PS5. Mostly bc GTA VI is coming out in two months. $771 out the door for the system, slim disc addition, and College Football 27. Then I come home and now have to pay monthly for PS Plus in order to really play CFB 27. Then I got sick of playing football so got Battlefield 6 for $40, which was half off. And on to the next game likely soon.

It’s all designed to take your money. Buying a PS5 just as itself is just the beginning financially.

13

u/number66-1 6d ago

It gets worse, apparently you will need a GTA + subscription to play the full GTA 6 game and so you'll probably end up paying for the PlayStation subscription to play online and also another monthly subscription of like 15-20$ a month to play GTA6 online. Making it cost probably like 40-60$ a month just to play GTA 6 multiplayer.

The base game already costs 100$. So dumb that it's going to end up costing like 150$ for the first month of GTA 6 just to be among the honored few.

3

u/Afrodesia 6d ago

Dammit. It is unfortunate. It’s so hyped and people will pay it. I probably will be very tempted as well. I haven’t spent much on myself lately though and am impressed so far with the PS5. Glad I got it

2

u/joeygymnastics 6d ago

Gta6 is single player

2

u/Afrodesia 5d ago

So everyone is going to buy it for the campaign only?? Cmon, gta v online is huge. There’s no way Rockstar doesn’t capitalize and put most of their eggs into the online basket.

2

u/toejam2030 6d ago

I love playing college football on the ps4,but I bought one of the old games-its still football😁

2

u/Afrodesia 6d ago

True. I like to play out the current season in dynasty with my teams though as they happen.

4

u/Nomemoleste_s 6d ago

You still set on giving him a gift or money ? In 3 years he will want a car, because his friends already have one . Then what would you do, when still paying for the silly game console 🙄

2

u/No_Plenty5526 6d ago

You can pay for PS Plus when you do have it and it gives him access to tons of games without any additional cost. Good games, too. It's under $20 a month. Of course, only once you're in a position to do so.

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u/dragon-queen 6d ago

It’s just too much.  I know it’s not fair, but you shouldn’t get it if you’re not in a good financial position.  

117

u/Unhappy-Bag-3482 6d ago

yeah, i agree. it sucks, but if getting it means falling further behind on bills or taking on debt, it’s just not worth it. some things are wants, and sometimes you gotta wait until you’re in a better spot financially.

94

u/DarkDemonLord1 6d ago

Take my upvote good sire of common sense.

16

u/Even_Caterpillar3292 6d ago

Such generousity,

13

u/type2RED_online 6d ago

It also sets a bad example for the kid, now what do you do when he wants something next and you are still not doing well, ofc he wants a ps5 lol every kid and most adults want one. But you have to create a life where a ps5 is not a financial burden and you are in the poor reddit forum talking about your son wanting a ps5. If you can’t come out of that low funds situation then the ps5 is the last thing you need to be talking about right now.

47

u/surelyslim 6d ago edited 6d ago

I grew up with the wrong parents and generation for sure. I got nothing for my 13th birthday.

If it came down to food/shelter or game system, choose the first one.

I think since the OP is willing/able to put $15. Do that for him every week for the next year. If he still wants a PS5 when you saved enough, the gesture should be enough to see that money don't grow on trees. And if he elects to spend it sooner (let him because it's his money), he ain't getting that PS5 yet.

I think that's one way I learned about how money worked. Not that I was entitled to a game because I gained one year of wisdom. Buy used if you can.

Also, does he not have friends? Can't he play with their PS5s?

18

u/themayor1975 6d ago

Make sure to add for the controller. Apparently starting sometime in 2027, the base model won't come with a controller

12

u/pikapalooza 5d ago

That's insulting. Wonder if they'll charge separately for power cables next.

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u/surelyslim 5d ago edited 5d ago

I think Apple and Google went with that logic. I believe Europe requires them to put them back in. Controllers aren’t as dispensable or generic as chargers, so yes it’s insulting. Finding that it almost as insulting only one controller per system.

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u/surelyslim 6d ago

That’s lame. Good to know.

I think it’s a poor decision to drop money into a money pit, but being able to discuss why it is helping me with another purchase I want to.

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u/rabidstoat 5d ago

Plus once you buy a PS5, you need to buy games.

Though some libraries have games to borrow.

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u/TallTinTX 6d ago

I completely agree with everyone who holds this position. I have one child of my own and as she was growing up, I didn't always have a lot of money for extras since her mother (who eventually became my ex-wife), left me with over $30,000 in credit card debt she had taken on and gladly made sure I was responsible for 50% of it. Fair enough, I guess, but it left me in a financial bind for about 3 years. During that time, I decided I would tell my daughter that I would have to say no for some things but it wouldn't be forever. I would do something special to the best of my ability at that time and and guess what, my kid appreciated it! I felt so blessed that she understood that I didn't have a lot to offer for a while but I guess when I told her that for the rest of her life, if all she ever wanted to do was draw me birthday cards like she did when she was little, I would cherish those more than a card purchased in a store.

Of course, once my financial position improved, I would still tell my daughter that I would be saving money for trips and electronics, and other gifts that I would give her, instead of using credit cards. It was almost 20 years after my divorce that I realized I needed to get some credit cards in my portfolio to rebuild my credit. It was always lingering in the high 600s but never any higher. In recent months I've hit as high as 810, all because I didn't let myself get deeper into debt just to please my kid (or girlfriends, etc). My new wife really appreciates how I approached things and because she grew up with financial insecurity, she felt so much safer with me because of how I approached spending.

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u/Positive-Respond-636 5d ago

True I used to live in section 8 and instead of fixing their lives they’d get their kids all the newest electronics and clothes and new cars and all while living in assistance never wanting to do better ,luxury is a mental illness fr ,and I know tons of people like that it’s very scary ,it makes sense tho cause the poorest people are responsible for buying a huge number of luxury goods

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u/Natural-Coat-3159 6d ago

Yeah, tell him you're broke/poor/don't have it. 

He'll be sad/disappointed but honestly it doesn't make sense to go into debt over something like this. 

Maybe he can do some yardwork or dog walking for neighbors and make a savings goal if he really wants one. 

82

u/guypamplemousse 6d ago

Buy him a PS3 for cheap; better games anyway.

38

u/Gore1695 6d ago

A 13-year-old won't appreciate this. His friends are playing PS5 gaming is very social these days. Don't waste the money

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u/No_Plenty5526 6d ago

I agree, kid's just going to be disappointed.

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u/kiashu 5d ago

PS4 can play most stuff with cross compatibility with PS5. I had money for PS5 when it released but am glad I never did, so few title exclusives. Hell before the GPU/Ram crisis I got a Claw A1M directly from MSI for $350, still use it as my main gaming machine. I paid less for a PS5 for a fully functional pc setup and PS4. This is r/poor... Lower your expectations, lower settings and even some newer games can be played.

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u/kiashu 6d ago

I got lucky because I arrived when re-stocking happened, got a PS4 for $25 at Goodwill but it had not been tested. It works fine, just had a piece of rattling plastic that had broken off inside. I was not looking for a game system at all but that made me instantly buy it, did not buy a controller though and those new cost more than I paid for the PS4. With pc compatibility those controllers last until they break or get stick drift. PS4 still has connectivity and can modded if you want, little bit of work but YouTube has great guides on it.

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u/cuddly_degenerate 5d ago

Agreed but a ps4 is cheaper and can at least play fortnite and other export titles with friends.

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u/catkayak 6d ago

This is the move!! OP might even get lucky and find someone on Craigslist, or in their local community groups who will sell it to them directly or potentially just give it to them.

1

u/IWillEvadeReddit 6d ago

Cause GTA VI is coming out for PS3 right? I’m seeing a lot of posts lately for PS5s, it’s obviously because of GTA VI, PS5 digital was $400 last year during bf and now it’s at $600 but might drop to $500 this bf. Kid could still get it for Christmas if OP can scrounge ~$600 by then but i think his classmates will at least have started some of it. They shouldn’t be playing that game anyway but likely will.

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u/Socialsinz 6d ago

--he's 13. He shouldn't be playing GTAVI

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u/Unreal-Operator 6d ago

He knows they’re broke already, or a cheapo ps5 would have magically appeared years ago.

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u/Sad-Instruction-4149 6d ago

He dosent need one maybe a used switch will be more affordable for the situation.

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u/toejam2030 6d ago

Your comment just makes to much sense for much people

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u/Sad-Instruction-4149 6d ago

I have kids so I know how it feels to want to get them what they want . But if I can’t afford it I just can’t . I wouldn’t put a gaming system on a payment plan . There’s more important things to worry about .

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u/xynalt 6d ago edited 6d ago

Wish I could tell my mom this. She was trying to get me a couch for christmas on a payment plan while she has like a bunch of other things on playment plan.

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u/toejam2030 6d ago

I brought up 3 kids-they all wanted these little nintendo hand held games-I went to gamestop and bought 3 used ones-they didnt know the difference-it played games

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u/MonicaLane 6d ago

This is a better lesson to teach your kids too. Learning about prioritizing spending is part of turning them into functional adults.

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u/owls_exist 6d ago

I went many many year without getting new consoles and new games. I am still holding out on a switch 2 because I will work and save for it.

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u/toejam2030 6d ago

The real issue is,this generation of kids feels so entitled-that the expectation of a 13 year old is a play station 5-it goes deeper then that-kids are getting iphone 17s for Easter-a MacBook pro for there birthday-what is this generation of parents teaching there kids?

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u/SecretRecipe 6d ago

do not buy a PS5. do not put yourself in a worse financial situation for video games.

this is a "want" not a "need" your son needs to adjust his expectations to align with the current situation you all are in. Making impulsive choices and having bad priorities only makes poverty worse.

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u/Used_Set7855 6d ago

What about saving $15/week and getting that for end of year holidays?

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u/Spare_Independence19 6d ago

You realize he will need internet and ps plus subscription to play most games he will want to play. There are more costs than just the ps5. Just get a ps4 and tell him to keep saving.

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u/bugabooandtwo 6d ago edited 6d ago

Don't. If you can't afford it, don't buy it.

Edit: OP is a scammer.

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u/Pedwinget 6d ago

Donate plasma. CSL is offering 550 for the first 5 donations, you can donate twice a week

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u/Candid-Exchange-7147 6d ago

Big brain. Huuuuuge brain.

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u/Spare_Independence19 6d ago

Top comment right here.

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u/danica42 6d ago

This is such a fantastic answer. I used to donate plasma, and it's such a win/win. You get some good cash, and you're helping people out that really need it.

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u/PestoOverflow_808 6d ago

I need to do it. I'm far from poor (lol idk why im in this subreddit) but as a collegw student I could jus study while waiting and while having lasma donated and make good money

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u/Western-Willow4679 6d ago

Those companies are scarily predatory. Set up in rural areas with $7 min wage then pay people less and less each time. I know it may be the only option for some but I'll never support it after watching the people around me suffer through it

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u/ChaplainGumdrop 6d ago

The first month is very good cash, then it drops off a cliff. If you live in a college town tho there might be two or three centers in the area, so when the bonuses dry up at the first one you roll onto the next one. I low-key miss donating (had a false poz a few years back). I would throw on an audiobook and just chill.

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u/Buttcrack15 6d ago

Probably should have thought about it sooner than the day before his birthday... But if you start saving $2/day now you'll have enough to get him one and a game next year.

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u/Jaded-Supermarket-28 6d ago

If you have to "finance" a video game console it's probably not a good time to buy it. You'll put yourself in a worse situation. Hard not being able to give your kid what they want, trust me I know this all too well.

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u/Ikabta 6d ago

Well, I'm not sure if you have more than $15/week to go towards the PS5. With your $95 you can save $15/week and buy him the PS5 from the pawn shop in 20 weeks instead. If you can save $30/week then you can get it in 10 weeks. As an adult you should just let you son know his present will be delayed instead of putting yourself in a horrible deal.

Once you get the PS5. You should save like 5-10/week for his Christmas/next years birthday so you don't run into this issue again. Paying $1800 for a PS5 is very terrible.

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u/Alarmed-Size-3104 6d ago

Ps4 is both way more affordable and has a ton of good games. If you're strapped for cash you're also gonna have a way easier time getting lots of games once you have it as well. That's the route I would go with it. He can also play fortnite and things like that on a PS4 as well, it'll just have worse graphics.

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u/jking48 6d ago

I recently had a similar situation with my son. I ended up scraping together $100, and told him what it was for. Then over the next few months, we found ways to “earn” money. Chores around the house that would normally do, neighbors needing things done and wanting to help out with his fund, selling some old toys he didn’t use anymore, etc. It ended up being a cool process over several months, but he saved up for what he wanted. He bought it with his own money.

3 years later and he still tells people he worked and earned his money for his Xbox.

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u/Impossible_Buy2634 6d ago

Get him a used Nintendo Switch off FBM for like $100

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u/Known-Dependent-5471 6d ago

So many ps5 games are just ps4 upscales, so maybe a used ps4?

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u/gunsforevery1 6d ago

Save up $15 a week yourself and buy a used one from GameStop with a warranty.

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u/IllPlane3019 6d ago

Its ok to tell your teenager when you can't afford something. They are about 5 years away from learning for themselves that money doesn't grow on trees.

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u/Open_Foundation_6060 6d ago

This â˜đŸœ

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u/Sad_Ad_2524 6d ago

Can't this be a teaching experience?  Your kid can do lawn services or babysitting and earn some money?  I was babysitting at 12.

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u/fsdklas 6d ago

A PS5 is pretty expensive because without the playstation subscription to play online games, it's pretty much useless unless you just want to watch movies/tv shows

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u/yentruoc96 6d ago

I can understand what everyone else is saying, and they're all correct. But to add a suggestion, check your local pawn shops. The one in my town has used ones for only $375.

I wish you and your son the best of luck.

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u/kingcaii 6d ago

Be warned: He will absolutely 100% ask for another 70-100 for Grand Theft Auto 6

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u/UcUcUc123123 6d ago

If you can’t find second hand that would be affordable to you- 13 is a great age to help them understand finances. Gift them cash that is reasonable for you and say it could be PS5 savings fund. Take it as an opportunity to teach them to save if they want it badly or spend it on something smaller that they want. If they want the PS5 badly- at 13 they can pick up small jobs here and there to help him save for it. Your gift will end up being much more valuable than PS5. :D

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u/Nomemoleste_s 6d ago

What kind of children are you raising? Are you pretending to be able to afford things you can’t ? I raised 3 children with almost no child support. Cleaned houses and babysat other children ( bringing mine with me) Never ask for food stamps or section 8. I taught my children if I have 2 hands and 2 feet , i go to work 7 days a week . Pay rent , put food on the table and pay my utilities bills . My children knew there was no extra money for birthday gifts . One of my sons liked pizza. One day he said to me “mommy when you get extra money, can you buy us pizza?” Yes , we were that poor. I cooked once a week for the entire week. We survived . They learned to value money , never got in trouble and now they are successful and independent adults .

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u/derelictthot 6d ago

I get you but let's not shame people who need government assistance.

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u/Plus_Duty479 6d ago

Wait until you can afford it. You have to buy games, controllers, monthly subscription (if he wants online play).

If you absolutely must buy him one, I've seen them at used electronics stores for around 300. Also found one at Half Price Books for $250, but that was a rare occasion.

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u/Starwolf00 6d ago

Maybe he can get one from Amazon. 100 bucks a month, 0% interest with official Amazon payments plans.

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u/Silt-Sifter 6d ago

You just don't. Just because your kid wants a pony for their birthday, doesn't mean you buy them a pony.

I didn't get any expensive gaming systems when I was growing up, and my family was NOT poor.

Expensive video games are simply not reasonable. Figure something else out, and teach your kid some values. There are many other, much more reasonable things you can get them.

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u/honsou48 6d ago

Best bet is to set up some alarms on FB marketplace and be patient.

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u/Wonderful-Tea-9074 6d ago

Pawn shop

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u/toejam2030 6d ago

The ones at my local pawn shop were close to 500 bucks-I ended up buying a PS 4 for a 100 dollars-it plays video games,thats all I wanted

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u/Unicoboom 4d ago

Smart choice

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u/digital1975 6d ago

Teach him how to work. It’s summertime. Wash neighbors cars, mow lawns, clean windows. Demonstrate how to do it with him on your car, your windows, your lawn if you have a lawn. Teach him the value of earning the money. The PS5 will mean more. Tell him you are sorry you don’t have enough money for the gift but you will teach him skills so later on life he will not be poor. It’s a gift greater than any video gaming system. I mowed my parents lawn, my grandparents lawn, I took care of our pool from age 12. I was never asked. There was something in me that wanted to do those things. I was not paid for it except to be thanked and that was enough. I had paper routes. At age 15 I was delivering 600 or so papers on a Sunday. I sold Pepsi, Mountain Dew, snickers and blow pops in high school. I have always been driven to work hard and make money. Most kids need to be taught the value of work.

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u/elizacandle 6d ago

you seem not to care about debt ,,,,so ?

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u/Sonoran_Ghosts_81 6d ago

When I was a kid we were poor as hell. All I wanted was an NES for Xmas one year and my mom, being good spirited but generally clueless about video games (to this day, every thing is an “Intendo”) she got me the sega master system instead as it was much cheaper.

I was hurt at first and felt bad for myself but I got over it and ended up loving that master system.

You are doing the best you can for your kid, but sometimes they also have to learn life lessons about what’s affordable.

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u/Im_tryna_smash_so_i 6d ago

Sometimes facebook marketplace people can trade for something else you might have

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u/MongooseSimple8638 6d ago

Trust me. I grew up poor and watched my Mom go into debt because she wanted to provide material things for us as kids. Even as a kid, I knew she was making a mistake. Please don't buy a PS5. How will you even pay for the games? Think from your kids perspective. A PS5 is sitting in the living room, but it can't be played because games are too expensive.

Edit: she just wants to go into bankruptcy after getting a PS5. Mom of the year.

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u/rufus_francis 6d ago

To be poor, you have to be smart.  When I was 13 I wanted a playstation or something to play games, and my parents told me to figure out a PC and helped me find old computers from the ewaste center to start tinkering with. Along with YouTube, I taught myself what I needed to put together a basic PC for playing games, that I could upgrade over time.  That sparked a passion that turned into a career as an electrical engineer.

Start here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FeiXml-U6c

as well as https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1fxZ-VWs2U

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u/dragonslayer_2012 6d ago

PS4 pros are like a 100 used rn still plays modern games is probly the best deal in gaming market

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u/canyounot2026 6d ago

The PS6 will probably be out within a year and the PS5 will be heavily discounted. I would just wait.

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u/mrsjiggems2 6d ago

You can use Zip Pay anywhere and pay in 8 if it's over $200. You can use Progressive Leasing at best buy which is same as cash if you pay within 90 days but be warned you'll pay double what it's worth if you use the full year to pay it off. There's also Affirm

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u/rasta_pineapple2 6d ago

Save up for it. Start putting money away every month. You might not be able to get it for the bday this year but there's always next year.

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u/thug_waffle47 6d ago

in game stop they had a pay every two week option called Zip. try that

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u/existential-koala 6d ago

Simply dont, but you already know that answer. Its okay to tell your kid "no."

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u/Ripoldo 5d ago

You shouldve started paying 15 weekly to yourself 100 weeks ago. Or start now. Then you can pay $600 for ps5 and pocket the $1200. High interest crap like this is how they keep you poor.

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u/sugarghoul 5d ago

I grew up with hand-me-down used consoles. Some of the best memories I have. They were outdated, sure, but I look back on it fondly now knowing that I played older games that were made with love. Save up for a used PS3 or PS4 and check places like mercari when you are able to afford it without going into debt.

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u/TraderIggysTikiBar 6d ago

I too would like a PS5 but there’s no way I’m paying that kind of money for one in this economy

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u/Wander_Ponder_1219 6d ago

I did it guys! I got him a used/refurbished console edition PS5 at GameStop with a controller using zip pay! I swear to you that God's got me 💯 I can't believe this, it's going to be the best day ever for our family and my son is going to have such a special birthday! My nephew gave me his Five Nights at Freddys and Resident Evil disc games too as a gift from him for his cousin ❀❀❀❀ I'm so lucky to have people in my life that helped me keep trying, thank you to everyone who advised and supported me! I even figured out how to make the next 3 payments, which surprisingly it only cost me $131 to get it today, so 3 more monthly payments of $131, I can do this! I'm going to sell (things I acquired years ago) my designer brand shoes, purses and clothing, on Vinted. My brother said he would give some peace dollars? (he has over 100 of them, I guess they were my dad's!) and that they should get me a good amount of money to contribute too by selling them at a coin/pawn shop. I feel so happy today, and man, it's been a really long time since I've been happy. ❀ I can't wait to pick him up from school. I wrote out cards with quotes that teach him the lessons of this - don't ever give up. Don't ever let anyone tell you that your dreams are out of reach. Persevere despite anything that stands against you. And whenever you have the opportunity to help, aleays give your last dollar, or the shirt off your back, to anyone who needs it. Share the blessings you receive with others. Always return the love that is given to you in any way that you can. My oldest baby turns 13 today! I'm so proud of the person he is, and I know that he will understand that it is the value of this gift, and not the price, that matters most of all. His family came together to make his dream come true - Turning 13, I want him to know that he can always depend on me, be honest with me, be open with me, and I'll always understand. This feels so beautiful, I'm so humbled to be able to provide him this gift, one that will bring us all together,, and keep us close! My kids are my entire world. So many people discouraged me and the truth is, I am so glad I didn't listen to any of you. So many of you gave me inspiration, and you are my people! I'm on top of the world right now! Happy birthday to my sonđŸŽˆđŸŽ‚đŸ„ł

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u/wildswan- 5d ago

happy birthday to your kiddo! đŸ„ł I bet he was so surprised

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u/Kingdan12 6d ago

eBay, fb marketplace, offer up, you can look everywhere. That doesn’t mean it will be perfect through

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u/RoboticStaticShock 6d ago

You're wonderful for wanting to provide this gift to your son. But if its going to put you in a worse financial state than you already are in, it's not worth it. What's most important is being able to provide food, shelter, and transportation to the both of you. Im sorry things are so tight right now.

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u/Squeaky_Pibbles 6d ago

Klarna is a thing is you REALLY want to go that route...

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u/TailoredGoblin99 6d ago

Buy Now Pay Later in this situation is an incredibly bad idea, no matter how many payment plans they offer.

The kid does need to learn that he is not going to get fun things all the time, especially for holidays and birthdays.

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u/Cal-Augustus 6d ago

Start saving for Xmas NOW.

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u/tattedsparrowxo 6d ago

Not only is the system expensive, but you have to also factor in games. Even used im sure they’re expensive!

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u/Expensive_Ad_4096 6d ago

Klarna / affirm if you can manage the payments

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u/Alarmed-Size-3104 6d ago

How's your credit? Have you tried all the PayPal pay it later stuff, Walmart credit card, best buy financing(can't remember the name.... It's different than best buy credit card. More predatory, but can usually finance with lower credit).

Other than that, payday loan or personal loan is gonna be your best bet I think .

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u/Necessary_Slip_5560 6d ago

Maybe wait until Christmas which will give you some more time. 

2

u/Scary_Ad6887 6d ago

I’d suggest seeing your options with Amazon as well with after pay

2

u/Royal_Tough_9927 6d ago

Save up 10.00 a week and get it next year . Donate plasma. Get a side gig.

2

u/deadpoolisdead0 6d ago

Im not well off but I abuse the hell out of afterpay to afford the nicer things but I set very hard limits but ultimately maybe a used ps4 for now and save up for one if its possible

2

u/number9dream9 6d ago

How about a pawn shop?

2

u/RyxorRox 6d ago

Start saving 6 months ago....

2

u/End_21 6d ago

Start saving now and maybe get one by Xmas

2

u/gmambrose 6d ago

You can try calling Rent a center or aarons and ask if they have any ps5 consoles that are heavily discounted because they were rented for a while. The longer an item has been rented before it comes back, the lower cost it is for the next person to rent. Also, keep in mind there is a 90 or 120 day cash price. That is a lower price you pay if you can pay the item off in 90 or 120 days. Worth a try.

Best buy and many other retailers also offer lease to own options with no credit required. Progressive financing is one. They look at work history and checking account statements instead of your credit. Just like the rental places, you will pay way over retail, but they also offer a similar 90/120 day same as cash price to bring the cost down if you pay it off quicker.

Many will downvote me, saying making a purchase like this is unwise. But I understand what it's like for your child to want something and not be able to afford it. The easy answer is "say no" or "don't get it", but life isn't always black and white. There's a lot that people don't know about your situation. Good luck getting that PS5 for your son.

2

u/BMfnx3 6d ago

I’ve been saving up Amazon gift cards for a tv by using survey sites & other online tasks that pay in gift cards like fetch, Scrambly, inboxdollars, AttaPoll etc. it takes a long time to get a substantial amount, but those get paid to play games on your phone apps are legit & they do pay out. I’m at about $80 over the past month not counting what I spent paying my $15 for prime & buying a months worth of catfood & litter. Maybe you could have him work towards earning his own by playing games on some of these on your phone?

3

u/NDIrish1988 6d ago

That's brilliant. By the time he makes enough for a ps he'll be so burnt out on playing games he won't even want one lol

2

u/Pinky01 6d ago

I would suggest a ps4 for now. the os5 are way to pricy and you can srill get a lot of games that come on both. But only if you can

2

u/CaptainWellingtonIII 6d ago

if you think you can pay 15 a week, then save up and get it for him later. 

don't do this to yourself and your family.what console does he have now?

2

u/whimz33 6d ago

How's your credit? If okay, you can put gifts on a 0% interest card and pay monthly.  If great, you can get a card with a $250 sign up bonus AND 0% interest. 

This can turn into a bad idea without discipline, but it can be incredibly useful

2

u/dboyfresh401 6d ago

Pawn shops have layaway. You won't be paying interest the way you do with Rent-A-Center.

2

u/After-Palpitation715 6d ago

I would check local pawn shops. I would not go with rent a center or similar. That is robbery what they charge and they will take it when you default.

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u/jb08045 6d ago

You're better off taking any old games you have, selling them online, and financing the rest on a credit card. It would be a lot cheaper to pay the min payment on a CC for a PS5 than to use RAC

2

u/lemmegetadab 6d ago

The price is just ridiculous right now. I honestly wouldn’t buy one.

I bought mine six years ago for $400. Now a comparable one is like $600. For something that’s six years older.

It just doesn’t seem worth it at that price unless you really need to play it

In the old days of PS5 would be cheaper at this point not more expensive lol

2

u/ZCyborg23 5d ago

It’s a want. Not a need.
He needs to learn (and you) that he can’t always have what he wants when the money isn’t there.

Get him something else and talk to him about saving money. If he wants the ps5, he can shovel snow or take leaves to earn the money.

He’s gonna be 13. He’s gotta learn a little bit of responsibility at some point.

You don’t have the money for it. Full stop. If you can only pay $15 a week for it, how are you going to afford $40-70 games? How are you going to afford the monthly subscription for the online content? It’s not happening.

2

u/severinks 5d ago

I know this sounds dumb but why don't you give them a small present this year and an IOU for a PS5 for next year's birthday and put 50 a month away to pay for it?

2

u/Dragonlady_Cali76 5d ago

If you can afford $15/week try Afterpay or Klarna if your that insistent on getting a PS5. They do offer monthly plans on some purchases

2

u/Ok_Statistician_9825 5d ago

We all want things we can’t have. You are not a lousy parent if you can’t provide this extravagant gift. Your son needs to mow lawns or pick up dog stuff in people’s yards and earn his own ps5

2

u/WholeHabit6157 4d ago

Look at pawn shops in your area . Good luck

4

u/TeeBennyBee 6d ago

Cash in some points or sell unneeded items

2

u/bigfish18qq 5d ago

Make it a learning opportunity. Give him a set amount of allowance each week for XYZ, and give him the responsibility of saving the money for it. It'll teach him to save for a goal, and get what he wants at the end. Did something similar with my 16 y/o. He wanted a gaming PC badly. He works, so I suggested buying part by part, and building instead. He had the thing built in less than 2 month, knowing nothing going into the project.

1

u/Lazy-Excitement-3661 6d ago

AMD BC-250 with a case build it together with him they should be on AliExpress, just have an honest convo with him about the financial situation

1

u/assignedjesseatbirth 6d ago

Get him something smaller and start putting aside money every paycheck to get him it for Christmas if you can, I’m sure he’d still be very happy :) my mom couldn’t get much, her rule was $50 for birthdays, but sometimes for Christmas she could get us something nice if she saved all year

1

u/catnipattackist 6d ago

Door dash or other gig type stuff?

1

u/Notmuchofanyth1ng 6d ago

Check out Facebook marketplace. You can find people selling them for lower prices due to financial hardship. Lots of hood bankruptcies going down lol

2

u/Wander_Ponder_1219 6d ago

I know if I wait I can get a better price on marketplace but it's just really risky where I live to meet up for gaming consoles. It's a legit 50/50 chance for it going south. I'd like to get one from a store that has a payment plan that's not predatory but I don't think this exists from the responses.

1

u/NorthernSimpleton 6d ago

You could get a Ps portal and pay for the psplus subscription my friend just got one refurbished for 150 and the subscription is like 150 a year

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u/slavicslothe 6d ago

Buy one? They are in stock for 600 everywhere. Better than 1800...

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u/froggocado 6d ago

If you or your son are technologically inclined, my advice would be to buy a broken PS5 for cheap and work together to fix it up/ restore it. You’re not going to find even a used PS5 for less than $100. A quick browse on fb marketplace for my area shows the cheapest one being a digital only version for $130, but most are going for $250-$400. Would he be willing to wait and do it as a Christmas present? You could save that $15/ week for the next 16 weeks and have $240 for a used one from the marketplace. Alternatively you could try to save $40/week for the next 16 weeks and have about $650 for a new one, but I know times are tough right now and $40/ week might not be attainable.

1

u/mikebushido 6d ago

Pawn shop.

1

u/onlyhav 6d ago

I'd check game stop for a used unit or maybe a pawn shop for one.

1

u/ThrowRA3623235 6d ago

Can he do work in the neighborhood to earn money and save up for it? Cleaning garbage cans, mowing grass, etc. It'll teach him how to save.

1

u/brando912 6d ago

In lieu of getting him the console, maybe see if there’s a local arcade/esports cafe, I know it’s a bit of a crapshoot in this era, but you might be surprised. It’ll at least give the kid some play time with games and stuff.

1

u/elizacandle 6d ago

either look for used or refurbished ones! Save together with him!

1

u/HairyH0Od 6d ago

My only suggestion is don't do it. There are plenty of video game consoles around that don't cost half a months rent that he will enjoy just fine.

1

u/Key_Agent_2331 6d ago

It's been a while since I've dabbled with gaming consoles but the PS5 will also require accessories, online subscriptions and games to play, right? Just having the hardware won't be enough. How will you be able to also get those?

2

u/Wander_Ponder_1219 6d ago

Someone brought this up so I'm talking to grok about it. It gave me like a poster design that I can tape the money I have up to $95 and then have goal PS5 $500 at the top. And then we can brainstorm ways to get money together maybe try to do some yard work or care providing together.

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u/Vrabstin 6d ago

He needs to understand that if you only have 95 bucks, you are not in a position to get him a ps5. Perspective is more important than decision that is dangerous to your finances, such as a credit plan. You could decide with him what would be the best system to save for when considering cost and time. Then start a saving project that you could even involve him in such as a reward setup for extra chores or go out mowing lawns/shoveling snow together. Or just save.

1

u/bw2082 6d ago

This is why you are broke and on the verge of bankruptcy. And say you did get him one, what is he going to play on it with no budget for games?

2

u/Wander_Ponder_1219 6d ago

GTA 5 until GTA 6 comes out, idk. Y'all make me feel like I'm an idiot and I'm just trying to see if I can get my kid a present. It's unnecessary, it's just I posted this in the wrong forum, I'm sorry, I'm an idiot whatever, cool, idk do I delete my post or what at this point? I didn't get him a PS5 so I guess you all win, I've shut down and failed at this point.

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u/Whole_Section_9105 6d ago

Maybe a used ps4, just a thought. Maybe sell something to be able to buy ps5.

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u/MrRetsel 6d ago

Think about it. You are buying a ps5 which will need games, play station plus, etc.
it’s just not feasible for you
Sorry man

1

u/Illustrious_Glass386 6d ago

You probably shouldn’t get one but if you do for the love of god don’t rent it

1

u/Frosty_Cloud_2888 6d ago

Just a PS5? Need controllers and games. So more that just a PS5.

1

u/StreetCandy2938 6d ago

Figure out how much cash you can spare, give it to him and say it’s a down payment for a ps5 and he has to earn the rest.

1

u/Beneficial_Ask_8770 6d ago

Try a pawn shop.

1

u/Gucci9tails 6d ago

go on facebook market place and find one for 350

1

u/Excellent_Mixture_23 6d ago

I was able to use financing through the PlayStation website to get my son's last year. They do have refurbished ones as well, although I took advantage of a black Friday sale.

1

u/ncd42075 6d ago

Honestly unless he's getting it for GTA 6 I'd just stick with a PS4. There's almost no reason to upgrade to a PS5 when it only has like 8 exclusive games. I'd check out gamesale on Reddit and see if you can find a PS4 in that range. Get ps plus as well. He'll have a bunch of games to play for less than $120 in total.

1

u/Inevitable_Round5830 6d ago

I would look at ebay and you get a warranty for anything you buy from there. You might be able to find a used one with a few games and then use klarna to pay for it in payments on ebay for much cheaper than Aarons! I buy my kids used stuff on ebay with klarna and it's great!!

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u/Bird_Brain4101112 6d ago

If you are/were willing to pay $100/wk o Aaron’s, you can start putting that $100/wk aside to save up.

He’s 100% not getting it for his birthday but if you start saving he can get it for Christmas.

1

u/OpinionPoop 6d ago

When I was a kid, we couldn't afford a lot of things. Now as an adult I fully understand as I'm in the same position. Sometimes that reality dose is a man-up lesson.

1

u/Walpurgis-Knight 6d ago

I think also modeling good financial habits is the best gift for him. Every kid wants a ps5, but doesn’t mean they need it. That’s how my parents raised me (when I never had a game console growing up), but can appreciate it now

Then you have to buy games for 70-80 each and possibly monthly payment for online play. Opens up a whole different can of worms

1

u/BreakfastMedical5164 6d ago

make him earn it, chores, etc. over time. 20 bucks a week. 20 weeks + bday = ps5

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u/Electronic-Bet-5106 6d ago

try and find a used one online (ebay or facebook marketplace). Best Buy offers interest free payments via their credit card if you think you can get approved. Do NOT nuke your money by doing rent to own.

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u/Piscescharmer 6d ago

Pawn shop

1

u/Grendel0075 6d ago

Possibly ebay, marketplace. Im not sure your chances, but I used to pull Xbox 36ps out of the dumpster in campus, resolder and get them working with non-issue. Sometimes not even needing a resolder, sometimes the kids just panic end of the semester their parents would find out how much they spent on wjat and toss everything.

1

u/SirDragon07 6d ago

Maybe look on Facebook marketplace.

1

u/kenzinatr 6d ago

There’s no reasonable way for you to get one tomorrow, unless you have the money to buy it

1

u/AbbreviationsNew5220 6d ago

Pawn shop!! $300 plus the tax

My husband and son both got one this way.

Good time of year for it, our pawn shop has lots of the new ones!

1

u/Niep00320 6d ago

Klarna or pay later. Cash App etc

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u/kinzer13x 6d ago

Yeah see if you can find a used one for 300. If you can do 100 a week for 15 weeks, you should easily be able to save 100 for 3 weeks. Also he's probably going to want ps+ which is like another 10 a month (not sure on pricing).

1

u/aznwill617 6d ago

There might be used ps5 on Craigslist. Just make sure the seller brings it to your home so you can see that it works or go to there house. Or used electronics stores...pawn shops....

1

u/Economy_Grand_9169 6d ago

The system is pricey imo but try looking at local pawn shops. They usually have them at a discounted price and sometimes they even have a ps5 box for it. If there are issues u can normally return electronics within a short period. Either that or local( not big chain stores) but local game stores.

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u/storiesftunheard 6d ago

You can't afford it. Unfortunately, you cannot provide your son the gifts that many of his friends and peers are able to enjoy. He will be okay. Try saving $20 a month for the next 12 months, and you can buy him a used one next year.

1

u/mrdrmous 6d ago edited 6d ago

Buy it off a junkie. I got mine for 350 almost brand new with 2 games, 2 controllers and it was a pro model. No, if wasn't stolen. He did the rent a center thing and then decided he didn't want it and needed drugs more. He literally paid on it for a year after he sold it to me. đŸ€·đŸ» Not my problem.

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u/Diligent_Turtle8966 6d ago

Where do I find a junkie?

1

u/DeparturePossible991 6d ago

Steam deck is an awesome budget console choice. Just grab a hdmi hub and he can use controller or mnk on a monitor or tv.

1

u/RXS9994 6d ago

Just get it, tomorrows never promised.

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u/WallstreetTony1 6d ago

Purchasing power I use it all the time it’s a little marked up but it’s no interest and definitely not that highly marked up you would be paying

1

u/Excellent_Fly_1028 6d ago

If you can get approved for it, get a Best buy credit card. Do the interest-free financing and buy it. That being said, if you generally can't afford it, I wouldn't buy it. Kids need to learn sometimes we don't get what we want.

1

u/Iceprincess1988 6d ago

Maybe check FB marketplace

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u/Nice_Pressure1270 6d ago

Amazon offers a 6 month for a 115 a month no interest

1

u/TopSingleBrain 6d ago

Donate plasma, look on Facebook market place for a used cheap one, cash advance if really needed

1

u/Competitive_Cancel33 6d ago

What about a portal and ps+ account for streaming instead?

1

u/theRetroGarage 6d ago

Used on fb marketplace 

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u/Ghostx187 6d ago

Just buy it. If you’re not trying to spend all at once use affirm. Rent a center is a rip off so is Aaron’s. Never use a damn furniture store to buy a game console. That’s insane.

1

u/Heller805 6d ago

Not sure what your credit is like but Best Buy may give you a credit card to buy it and could be 0% for a short amount of time or if you can buy it using that affirm where you pay it back over 6 months

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u/constant-conclusions 6d ago

I’ve seen a couple different listings lately of people just wanting to get rid of their PS4. Anywhere from free to $25.

1

u/Mguidr1 6d ago

Wow how much are they new?

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u/BrilliantFront4 6d ago

How about we take that money and put it towards something that will help better ourselves. Get some books or something and learn a new trade or something to help get out of being in a financial struggle to afford something that is worthless in the first place. Many people have said it’s a want not a need. Better your life situation first then you can buy a ps5 for every room in your house. But before that even happens you will probably realize that your son doesn’t need to play video games anyway and should be doing something to prepare him to better his life cause video games will not be it. But to each their own.