Borrowing Games: A Guide for the Friend-Zoned Gamer (and How NOT to Get Kicked Out of Game Night)
Ah, the age-old question: how to play the latest games without, you know, actually buying them? Fear not, budget-conscious gamer, for I bring you the glorious art of borrowing. But before you unleash your inner borrower's remorse, a word of caution: borrowing games is a delicate dance, a social minefield that requires finesse and, quite frankly, a little bit of luck.
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| How To Borrow Games |
Step 1: Identify the Target (a.k.a. Your Friend with the Big Game Collection)
This, my friends, is where the true skill lies. Not everyone is cut out to be a game sherpa. You need someone who:
QuickTip: Pay attention to first and last sentences.
- Actually owns games: This might seem obvious, but you'd be surprised.
- Doesn't mind sharing: Not everyone is comfortable lending out their prized possessions (especially if they're attached to a certain limited-edition controller).
- Has games you actually want to play: Because let's be honest, if you're borrowing "FarmVille Simulator 2023," you're doing it wrong.
Pro tip: Look for friends who frequently gush about their gaming conquests. They're usually the proud owners of the latest and greatest.
Tip: Read once for gist, twice for details.
Step 2: The Art of the Ask (a.k.a. Don't Be That Guy)
Here's where things can get tricky. You don't want to come across as a cheapskate or, worse, someone who expects a free ride forever. Here are some golden rules:
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
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- Offer something in return: Maybe cook them dinner, help them move (okay, maybe not that last one), or at least offer to buy the pizza for game night.
- Be specific: Don't just say, "Hey, can I borrow some games?" Do your research, mention a specific game you're interested in, and express your genuine interest in playing it.
- Respect their boundaries: If they say no, don't be pushy. A simple, "No worries, thanks for asking!" goes a long way.
Remember: You're building a borrowing relationship, not ransacking a game store.
QuickTip: Don’t just scroll — process what you see.
Step 3: The Borrow and the Borrowed (a.k.a. Taking Care of Their Precious Pixels)
You've gotten the green light! Now comes the most crucial part: taking care of the borrowed game. Treat it like a fragile porcelain doll that also happens to contain hours of entertainment.
- Handle the game disc/cartridge with the utmost care. No greasy fingers, no leaving it out in the sun (seriously, who does that?), and definitely no using it as a frisbee.
- Return the game promptly, and in the same condition you received it. No excuses, no delays. Be the borrower everyone dreams of having.
- Consider buying the game eventually, if you truly enjoy it. This shows your appreciation and might even earn you bonus borrowing points for the future.
By following these simple steps, you can navigate the treacherous waters of game borrowing and emerge victorious, with a controller in hand and a friend by your side (hopefully not your ex, because that might get awkward). Now go forth, borrow responsibly, and most importantly, have fun!
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