Video game deals, layaway and more at Toys R Us this weekend

According to the Consumer Electronics Association, video games are the third most desired product this holiday season, and electronics retailers aren't the only ones angling to capture sales. Toys R Us is launching layaway, trade-ins and even more sales on video game hardware.

Toys R Us has been introducing new deals at a furious pace leading up to Black Friday, and beginning Friday, Nov. 18, the chain is expanding its layaway program to video game hardware (except in Maryland). Placing a product on layaway requires a deposit of 20% of the total, including taxes and a $10 service charge. Items must be paid for in full by Dec. 6.

The retailer began taking trade-ins of video game software in October, and will now accept hardware, as well. Bring gaming devices to a Toys R Us store and have the hardware scanned at the service desk to determine value. Accept the offer and you'll be issued a gift card for the value that can be redeemed immediately in store or online.


Other deals for Nov. 20 to Nov. 22 include the Nintendo DS Lite for $64.99 (normally $129.99) when purchased as part of a Ready To Play DS Lite Pack totaling $157.95. This includes two games.

Deals for Sunday only:

• Buy one get half off all Nintendo DS and PlayStation Portable games
• Save $25 off The Beatles: Rockband Value Bundle for Wii, Xbox 360 or PS3. Was $159.99, now $134.99
• Save $10 on The Beatles: Rockband for Wii, Xbox 360 or PS3. Was $59.99; now $49.99
• 30% off select video game storage units
• Free gift cards with purchase of select video games, items vary.

Some of these deals are in-store only.