Gaming in 2025 isn’t just about high scores—it’s about high costs too. A new study from LDShop shows a massive gap in what gamers pay depending on where they live. India offers the cheapest setup at just $307.81 a year, while the UAE tops the list at $1,475.24.
The research compared 20 countries, taking into account PS5 hardware, annual game purchases, PlayStation Plus, internet access, and accessories. The results? Living in the wrong country can cost you up to five times more to enjoy the same hobby.
The Cheapest Places to Be a Gamer
Some countries offer bargain gaming without sacrificing quality.
- India – $307.81 yearly, with internet at $7.90/month and the cheapest annual game costs ($59.07).
- China – $344.81, with a $613 PS5 and an affordable $40/year PS Plus.
- Turkey – $448.01, helped by cheap internet ($13.68/month).
- Egypt – $473.58, low game spend but pricier subscriptions.
- Brazil – $490.57, with affordable games and accessories.
In Asia, low infrastructure costs and regional pricing mean you can keep a full gaming setup without draining your bank account. In India, the annual cost is less than what a UAE gamer spends on the internet alone.
The Most Expensive Gaming Countries
Gamers in these regions need deeper pockets.
- UAE – $1,475.24, with $254 on accessories and $101.78/month internet.
- Saudi Arabia – $1,135.42, internet at $71.34/month.
- USA – $1,106.78, internet at $71.99/month plus premium pricing across categories.
- Canada – $992.45, internet averaging $62.95/month.
- Australia – $878.39, internet at $54.04/month.
Here, internet costs are the main budget killer, followed by high accessory prices.
Why Costs Differ So Much
The study shows the biggest price swings come from:
- Internet fees
- Accessory pricing
- Regional console prices
- Subscription costs
Western markets often face higher infrastructure and retail mark-ups, while Asian markets benefit from regional pricing strategies and lower operational costs.
Tips to Cut Gaming Costs in Expensive Regions
LDShop’s experts suggest:
- Buy games during sales (often 50–70% off within months).
- Go for annual subscription plans instead of monthly.
- Invest in quality accessories that last.
- Use free-to-play titles and subscription libraries.
- Research before buying—avoid launch hype.
- Set a clear budget and stick to it.
As LDShop points out, “High costs don’t mean better gaming experiences.”
Summary
- India is the cheapest place to be a gamer in 2025 ($307.81/year).
- The UAE is the most expensive ($1,475.24/year).
- Internet prices are the main factor in cost differences.
- Asia dominates the affordable list, while Western and Gulf countries dominate the expensive side.
- Smart buying strategies can slash gaming expenses anywhere.
FAQs
Why is gaming so expensive in the UAE?
Internet costs ($101.78/month) and high accessory prices ($254) push the total annual cost far above that of other countries.
Which country has the cheapest PS5 in 2025?
Japan at $502, though overall costs there are higher due to internet and accessory prices.
How can I save money on gaming without missing out?
Buy during sales, use annual subscriptions, and take advantage of free-to-play titles or multi-game services.
