There is nothing like a few helpful tips to get you through times of need. Whether it be illness, heartbreak, writer's block or all three, it is nice to know you are not alone. So, without further ado, here are my TOP TIPS FOR SURVIVING THE RECESSION/ONSLAUGHT OF GREAT GAMES COMBO:



1) Community Spirit:

A community. That's what we are, right? I don't know how well people know eachother on Destructoid and, admittedly, I have only come across a few people here who I've had a good connection with so far. That said, I'm sure some of you are pretty tight. With this in mind, as well as the amount of new releases people can or can't afford, I suggest we become giving neighbours. That's right, if you have a game that somebody else wants to play, but can't quite purchase (and vice versa), why don't you swap games via mail and return them in good time. It's just a suggestion, but we need to pull together, no?



2) Patience (will prevail):

Remember that time of year (usually the beginning) when no games come out for a while? That's when you hit your local video game store/global internet site where it hurts. Personally, I have a problem with not owning a game that I really want as soon as it is released. I often feel that, even after a week's shelf life, whatever I accomplish in the game has been done before, which spoils the experience (a little, not a lot). In these dark days, however, I feel it is important to have a great deal of patience. These games will still be there in March, so give them a go then. That way you can also take your time on them and actually enjoy the challenge a hell of a lot more, as opposed to rushing through because you know another title is tugging at your sleeve for attention. Also, don't worry about people becoming amazing online in the meantime. Your time will come.


did my bedroom a little early this year. Too much?

3) Christmas List:

This one's usually a bit of a no-no for me. For some reason, although times are a-chiangin', me asking for a game for Christmas from my parents is the equivalent of me asking for a year's supply of beer: It is not always taken seriously. I won't even mention my girlfriends stance. My siblings are perfectly happy to sort me out though.

But if your family is anything like mine you may be doing what we are planning to: That's a Christmas with minimal spending (maybe £10 on each person) this year. It's been a tricky year, what can I say. If not, then you guys just stick some games on your list to Santa and pray that come that snow ridden morning at the end of December, you will be rolling in military musclemen and Sackboy stylings.

And last, but not least



4) Ram Raid:

Listen, all we need is a decent sized, reinforced lorry, an inside man (someone who works at a good game shop) and a map. I'm not going to go into too many details but this could be my safest idea yet.

Respect.