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For those of us who like to gamble regularly, the latest releases often grab our attention, especially given all the hype and anticipation surrounding the latest offerings. But in Australia, playing our favorite games can be quite a costly experience as prices are usually higher than other places around the world.
This was highlighted towards the end of 2022 amid news that Xbox games were getting more expensive, after Microsoft announced that prices for upcoming first-party releases would increase from 2023 onwards. That includes the massive and highly anticipated sci-fi RPG starfieldplus the next edition of the popular Forza Motorsport Series expected to be available in Australia at AU$104 each.
With the games industry booming in Australia, price is inevitably becoming an increasingly important factor for consumers when making purchasing decisions. This starts with the gaming platforms themselves, whether you choose consoles like Xbox or PlayStation, Windows PC or Apple Mac, and mobile devices like Nintendo Switch or smartphones, as prices and value can vary significantly between all of them.
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To complicate things a bit, many of the leading digital download stores are often region locked, which means accessing from Australia is also priced in our own currency. For example, Steam is now priced in Australian dollars meaning the ability to shop cheaper in USD$ or EUR€ is now gone unless we are using VPN and banking options located outside of our home country.
Fortunately, there are now more online game stores than ever before. This means that the competition between storefronts is much stronger, and that’s good news for Australian players when comparing options and prices. Throughout the year some will have special offers and offer certain game titles at heavily discounted prices, which certainly makes it worth checking out.
Founded by the same company that started Fourteen days With widespread acclaim, Epic Games has quickly become an intriguing alternative to Steam, often offering deeply discounted AAA releases. Led by the same people who published the hugely popular witcher series, GOG is also equipping 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 offer better value.
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The same approach to comparing options is also recommended for iGaming participants when looking for the best Australian online casinos available, based on the latest reviews from Gamble Online Australia experts. They only recommend operators that are fully licensed by recognized international bodies such as the Malta Gaming Authority, as well as those that offer the best customer service and the widest range of games available.
Likewise, all software and games must meet the highest standards, including those of eCOGRA, the leading independent and international testing body for gaming systems. Such checks and balances are important for online casinos to ensure that popular games of chance such as pokies are transparent and fair. This means that the return-to-player (RTP) ratio for withdrawals is displayed along with clear gameplay instructions.
Of course, no two casino sites are the same. Some offer exciting promotions and bonuses for games provided, such as B. Free spins on slots and extra credits on popular table games, including those focused on poker and blackjack or baccarat and roulette. This underscores the added value of trusted reviews, covering all areas in detail, allowing players to enjoy games with increased confidence while acting responsibly.