The PS3 has a few tricks up its sleeve that can really make you understand why the console itself is so expensive, but you can easily offset that if you find some free PS3 downloads. There are a few things that you'll need to look out for though, and here's a rundown on what they are:

First up, you'll need to find a reliable and trustworthy website-and by that I don't mean a torrent or P2P site-these are not trustworthy! Sure, you may be able to find a PS3 download or two at places like that, but rest assured each time you connect you are leaving your computer open for all kinds of hackers and cowboys to get access. Do you really want people like that ruining your PS3 for you? That is not the best way to get downloads.

Secondly, you'll need to make sure you have the right software and equipment. You can't put the PS3 downloads directly only your PS3, they will have to go onto your computer first and be transferred, which may require special software for your computer. You'll find that some of the less trustworthy sites will only let you download stuff from them if you first buy the conversion software. It can seem like a good deal, that is until you find somewhere that will give you the whole lot for free.

Thirdly, you need to stay within the law. PS3 downloads are pretty cool, and in some cases they probably will seem like the most important thing in the world, but let me as you this, is it really worth going to jail or getting a big fine for the sake of a free PS3 download? Many download sites are completely illegal, and there's never been more chance for you to get caught. Modern computing technology is very advanced-if some cheesy popup ads can get your IP address and use it in their advertising, imagine what the cops and the FBI can do?

The fourth tip, and probably the most helpful one, is to not be afraid to pay for quality. It takes a while to find them, but there really are some sites out there on the net that offer completely free PS3 downloads, the only catch is that you have to pay a one off fee to access them. It's a pretty good bargain, as the fee is usually less than $50, and that will set you up for life-free access to all the games, movies and TV shows etc you could ever want, in superfast high quality PS3 downloads. $50 seems steep at first, but think of it this way-the PS2 was super popular for 8 years, and the PS3 is just getting started. Do you think you can download more than $50 worth of stuff over the next 8 years? Now do see how good a deal it is?

Hopefully this article has shown you that there really is no need to pay ridiculous prices for your PS3 downloads and software. If you'd like to know exactly where to get these downloads, check out the links below.