The PS3 is a “gotta have it” system. Not only is it a DVD/Blu-ray player, but you can also surf the net on it, and its internet connectivity allows to you download extra content for tons of games. Some games, such as Little Big Planet, have extra, user-generated content available, such as player-designed levels. Of course, if you don’t have a PS3, you’re going to want to get the cheapest PS3 you can.

The PS3 makes memory cards a thing of the past, with a hard drive that comes is 80GB and 160GB versions, although if you have an older version or special edition yours may be 60GB. No shortage of memory here, unless you are a gamer that is beyond hardcore. And although the library is still more limited than the PS2’s (and the current PS3’s have zero backwards compatibility, although the older ones could play a few PS1 games) there are still some fantastic games to play out there. Before you run out to buy the cheapest PS3 you can find, check out some of the games:

First off is Sony’s huge hit, Little Big Planet. Exploring and creating worlds is both cute and intense in a game that appeals equally to both genders and all ages. For a game made for a system that is known for big single-player games and sorely lacking in the multi-player game department, Little Big Planet has some solid multi-player playability. Another huge hit is Dragon Age, a sophisticated, sexy, risqué (not for young kids!) RPG that relies on wicked dialogue, a solid plot and an amazing voice cast rather than over-exaggerated graphics.

To play the games, of course, you need a PS3. Where can you find the cheapest PS3s? Well, Walmart is always a good choice is you watch for sales, but you can usually get a game system below retail if you look hard enough. Try Amazon—you might even be able to get free shipping out of it.

The PS3 has been out for long enough that there should be some used ones out there (and there are quite a few.) There may be a used system at your local games shop, but you can usually find better deals online. How many teenagers do you think get grounded from video games every day? And how many of their parents do you think follow through on their threats and actually sell the game system on ebay? Enough to get you the cheapest PS3 on the market, that’s how many! Scour sites like ebay on a regular basis, or join up with your local freecycle site, and you may even score a free PS3.