Nearly every company wants your loyalty, and game publishers are no exception. From earning points on purchases to completing in-game challenges, many platforms have gamer loyalty programs designed to keep you within their ecosystem. But are these programs a genuine way to save money, or just a clever marketing tactic?
The answer is usually a bit of both. While you're unlikely to get rich off rewards points, understanding how they work can lead to some modest but welcome discounts. This guide breaks down the value proposition of a few major programs.
The Basic Model: Earn and Burn
Most gamer loyalty programs operate on a simple 'earn and burn' model. You perform certain actions to earn a proprietary currency (points, coins, etc.), and then you 'burn' or spend that currency on rewards offered by the program.
Common ways to earn points include:
- Buying games on their digital storefront.
- Paying for subscription services.
- Completing specific in-game tasks or achievements.
- Participating in community events.
The rewards are typically discounts on future purchases, digital collectibles like avatars and themes, or occasionally, full games.
Nintendo Gold Points: The Most Direct Value
Nintendo's My Nintendo program is one of the most straightforward. When you buy a digital game on the eShop, you earn Gold Points.
- How it Works: You typically earn 5% of the purchase price back in Gold Points. For example, a $60 game will earn you 300 Gold Points.
- Redemption Value: Each Gold Point is worth one cent when redeemed. So, those 300 points can be used as a $3.00 discount on your next eShop purchase.
- The Verdict: It's essentially a 5% cashback system for digital purchases. It's not a massive saving, but it's automatic, easy to understand, and provides tangible value if you buy games digitally on your Switch.
PlayStation Stars: A Focus on Collectibles
Sony's PlayStation Stars program is a bit more complex. It's a tiered system where you earn points and unlock 'digital collectibles' by completing various campaigns, such as playing a specific game or earning a certain trophy.
- How it Works: You earn points for making purchases on the PlayStation Store and for completing campaigns. The higher your 'level' in the program, the better your customer service routing might be.
- Redemption Value: Points can be redeemed for a limited selection of rewards, including store credit (where the value is often less than 1% cashback), specific games, or the aforementioned digital collectibles, which are decorative 3D models for a virtual display case.
- The Verdict: The monetary value of PlayStation Stars is quite low. It's primarily for highly engaged players who enjoy the gamified aspect of collecting digital items. Don't expect it to be a major source of savings.
Ubisoft Connect: In-Game Rewards
Ubisoft Connect (formerly Uplay) integrates its loyalty program directly into its games. You earn 'Units' by completing in-game challenges in titles like Assassin's Creed or Far Cry.
- How it Works: Challenges might include 'perform 10 stealth takedowns' or 'reach a certain point in the story.'
- Redemption Value: Units can be spent on two things: small in-game rewards for specific games (like a special weapon or outfit) or for a 20% discount coupon in the Ubisoft Store. You can often earn enough Units by playing one game to get a coupon for the next.
- The Verdict: This program can offer good value if you play a lot of Ubisoft games. The 20% discount coupon is a significant saving, but it's only usable in their proprietary store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do rewards points expire?
Yes, in almost all cases. Nintendo Gold Points, for example, typically expire 12 months after you earn them. Always check the terms and conditions to know how long you have to use your points.
Are these programs free to join?
Yes, all the programs mentioned here are free to join. You just need an account on their respective platforms.
Is it worth going out of your way to earn points?
Generally, no. The value of the points is usually too low to justify spending significant extra time or money just to earn them. Treat them as a small bonus for activity you were already planning to do.
Key Takeaways
- Most loyalty programs offer a small return on your spending, often in the form of points that translate to minor discounts.
- Nintendo's Gold Points program is a straightforward 5% cashback system for digital purchases.
- PlayStation Stars focuses more on digital collectibles and has a very low direct monetary value.
- Ubisoft Connect can provide a valuable 20% discount coupon, but only for use in the Ubisoft Store.
- Think of these programs as a minor perk, not a primary way to save money on gaming.
Related Reading
- How to Use Cashback Apps and Sites for Gaming Purchases
- A Gamer's Calendar: When to Expect the Biggest Digital Game Sales
- How to Budget for Your Gaming Hobby