Most people expect to have lighter wallets this time of year, as the video game industry releases a high volume of must have titles. Forking over $59.99 each week (in some cases, multiple times) is dangerous for one’s bank account. It’s even more expensive if you plan to buy special editions, which often come with near irresistible bonuses, from collectible items to downloadable content. That said, here are the bundles you should keep an eye on.
Grand Theft Auto 5
Might as well start here. Rockstar Games’ highly anticipated effort arrives September 17, and the special edition comes loaded with intriguing things, including a collectible SteelBook with exclusive artwork of Michael, Franklin and Trevor, followed by a blueprint map of Los Santos/Blaine County, bonus outfits and tattoos, missions you can’t find anyplace else and special abilities.
It retails for $79.99, but why stop there? The $149.99 GameStop exclusive Collector’s Edition comes with a security deposit bag, a GTA 5 New Era Snapback cap, custom characters and different vehicles. While you’re at it, buy one for us.
Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag
If the plain retail version of Black Flag doesn’t make you feel like a pirate, splurge on the $129.99 limited edition. For the cash, you receive an 18-inch statue of Captain Edward Kenway, a pirate flag, 80-page art book, soundtrack and SteelBook case. The game debuts November 12.
Call of Duty: Ghosts
Similar to most Call of Duty releases, we have two editions to pick up, Hardened and Prestige. The former ($119.99) comes with a Season Pass that includes four map packs, a Free Fall bonus map, a SteelBook case, in-game player patch/player card, soundtrack and a Paracord Strap for when you need to do who knows what.
Then we have the $199.99 Prestige Edition, which has all the stuff we mentioned, plus a 1080p HD Tactical Camera. Pretty slick. Don’t worry, the game comes out November 5, so there’s plenty of time to save.
Batman: Arkham Origins
Fans of the Dark Knight won’t be able to resist this sweet bundle when the game arrives October 25. For $119.99, you score a premium statue with LED effects, 80-page art book, glow-in-the-dark map of Gotham City, a Batman wanted poster, Batwing prototype schematic, Deathstroke challenge pack, a super villains documentary and plenty of other items. Time to empty the savings account.
Watch Dogs
Ubisoft’s open-world adventure has received plenty of praise, and gamers will likely flock to the limited edition, providing they’re willing to part with $129.99. There’s the usual SteelBook case of course, as well as a hardcover 80-page art book, game soundtrack, vigilante mask and nine-inch statue of Aiden Pearce. Watch Dogs debuts November 19.
