It might be time to start up a new semester, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up all your fun. Actually, medical experts suggest you balance education and work with entertainment; you’re going to perform better when you’re stress free.
School is expensive so you’re probably on a budget. For that, we have your back with a guide to the best video games and consoles to purchase with your carefully placed cash. These items will provide you great value, and a few of them can even be enjoyed with friends and roommates.
Related: The 10 Best Local Multiplayer Games for Your Dorm
Check out the gallery below for over a dozen great gaming options.
Back to School Entertainment: Games and Gear for Students on a Budget
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Battlefield 4
If you enjoy shooters, or just blowing things up, Battlefield 4 is for you. It's a technical showcase with destructible environments, and has tons of unlocks and content to keep you going for a long time.
Play value: 25+ hours
Platforms: PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Players: 1
Estimated Price: $39.99
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Bravely Default
Bravely Default might be a new IP, but many regard it as a revival of classic Final Fantasy games. That means great story, solid combat, brilliant music, and a memorable adventure.
Play value: 55+ hours
Platforms: 3DS
Players: 1
Estimated Price: $29.99
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Civilization 5
People aren't kidding when they tell you Civilization 5 is one of the most addictive games of all time; Iits strategy elements will have you hooked. Your problem won't be getting value out of it, it'll be putting it down during midterms.
Play value: 45+ hours
Platforms: PC
Players: 1
Estimated Price: $14.99
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Dark Souls 2
Dark Souls 2 is a killer action RPG that is one of 2014's finest games. I must warn you, it's extremely punishing, but if you find a way to be patient with it it'll pay you with immense value. This is one of my personal favorites.
Alternatively, you can pick up Demon's Souls or Dark Souls at an even lower price. Any entry in the series is a good buy.
Play value: 50+ hours
Platforms: PC, PS3, Xbox 360
Players: 1
Estimated Price: $29.99
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Diablo 3 (console versions)
If you could use a great local cooperative game that packs a big punch for your dollar, you can't get any better than Diablo 3. It's a game that every dorm room should have.
Play value: 30+ hours
Platforms: PC, PS3, Xbox 360 (PS4. Xbox One coming soon)
Players: 1 - 4
Estimated Price: $29.99
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Divinity: Original Sin
Being one of this year's biggest surprises, Divinity: Original Sin is a classically inspired isometric RPG. With a turn-based strategy combat system, it makes use of its lengthy adventure with fantastic gameplay. It's also the latest released game on this list thanks to its affordable MSRP.
Play value: 80+ hours
Platforms: PC
Players: 1
Estimated Price: $39.99
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Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster
Considered the last great Final Fantasy, Final Fantasy X is a masterpiece. This package not only includes a remastered version of the game, but its sequel. Yeah, this is an easy recommendation, to say the least.
Play value: 65+ hours
Platforms: PS3, Vita
Players: 1
Estimated Price: $29.99
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Forza 4
Being the highest rated racing simulator of all time, Forza 4 is a must own for car enthusiasts. It has 655 cars, dozens of tracks, and great online features. Maybe once you graduate you can buy one of your favorite cars in the game.
Play value: 30+ hours
Platforms: Xbox 360
Players: 1 - 2
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Gran Turismo 5
Similar to Forza 4, Gran Turismo 5 has tons of content and is a great purchase if you love cars. The biggest difference is simply what platform it's on.
Gran Turismo 6 is affordable, too.
Play value: 40+ hours
Platforms: PS3
Players: 1 - 2
Estimated Price: $19.99
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Metal Gear Solid HD Collection
3 award winning games in one package is a miracle. The Metal Gear Solid HD Collection includes some of my favorite games of all time with HD treatment. It'd be a shame if you missed them at this price point.
Play value: 60+ hours
Platforms: PS3, Vita, Xbox 360
Players: 1
Estimated Price: $34.99
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Nintendo 2DS
Nintendo crafted the 2DS for gamers just like you, the people who are busy with their education but love cost friendly entertainment. The 3DS has an incredible game library, and you can enjoy it on the go at a welcoming price with the 2DS.
Estimated Price: $114.99
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Nintendo Wii U
While other console manufacturers are busy with their hardware battles, Nintendo is preoccupied with inviting everyone with a fair price and outstanding first party games. The Wii U is an excellent console, and it's only just getting started.
Estimated Price: $199.99 (refurbished from Nintendo Store)
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Persona 4
There are lengthy games, and then there is Persona.
Persona 4 is the best JRPG in the past five years. It's fun, immersive, and will probably last you the entire semester.
Play value: 70+ hours
Platforms: PS2, PS3, Vita
Players: 1
Estimated Price: $19.99
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Rayman Legends
For a platformer, Rayman Legends is a very long adventure. Made better, it can be played in local multiplayer. Considering how good it is, your friends will be delighted to play it with you.
Get the PS4 or Xbox One version if you can since they include a lot more content.
Play value: 20+ hours
Platforms: PC, PS3, PS4, Vita, Wii U, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Players: 1 - 4
Estimated Price: $19.99
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The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
If you want to take a break from studying and get lost in a fictional world, Skyrim is a fantastic choice. In no time at all you'll be completing quests for villagers and looting your dead foes. As with Civilization 5, this game can be dangerously addictive.
Fallout 3 or Fallout: New Vegas are other great options from Bethesda.
If you play it on PC you, then you can mod the game, too.
Play value: 50+ hours
Platforms: PC, PS3, Xbox 360
Players: 1
Estimated Price: $19.99
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Super Mario Galaxy
Being one of the highest rated games of all time, Super Mario Galaxy is a treat. Games don't get much better than this.
This is also available to play using the Wii U's Virtual Console.
Play value: 25+ hours
Platforms: Wii
Players: 1
Estimated Price: $19.99
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The Sims 3
Sometimes a good simulation game is the best way to relax. The Sims 3 is five years old, but just as fun as ever. It'll deliver much more than its affordable price tag suggests.
Play value: 35+ hours
Platforms: PC, PS3, Xbox 360
Players: 1
Estimated Price: $9.99
