Downloading video games online can help you stretch your gaming budget. Be careful, though, as not all games available for download are available legally. You should first make sure that you have up-to-date antivirus and anti-spyware software installed on your computer before you download any video games. This will help ensure that you don't download any malware along with the game.

1. Are there specific games you're looking for, or are you just interested in a specific genre? The more general your interests, the more likely it is you'll find a download for free that meets your needs.
2. Do you need full versions, or are you looking for patches or expansion modules for a game you already own?
3. Are you willing to consider sites that offer demo versions or free trials?

By typing a specific string into the Google search box, you can access open indexes of video games that are available for download. For example:

• Searching for -inurl:htm -inurl:html intitle:"index of" freeware video games will bring up a list of directories of games that have been released as freeware. You can then browse each directory for games that are of interest to you.

• Searching for -inurl:htm -inurl:html intitle:"index of" "Grand Theft Auto" free download will bring up directories that include links for free downloads for grand Theft Auto video games.

Some video game publishers provide direct downloads to older versions of a game in order to generate interest and promote sales of more recent versions.

Rockstar provides free downloads of games such as Grand Theft Auto and EA has a section of its site that allows you to play some of their games online.

Gaming sites, such as GameSpot frequently feature free video game downloads. While these are usually trial versions, or older software, you may find games you really enjoy playing.