I tend not to buy games on sale. As it is, I havent finished a few games in my library that I actually want to finish. Also, my gaming time is only shrinking, not growling. I dont see that changing anytime soon. Its not really a good deal (even at 80% off) if Im not likely to actually play it.
Another argument against the frequency of scales is made by Jason Roehrer [1] “Even in economic terms,” he said, “the extra utility of playing the game early, at release, is not big enough to offset the extra cost for most people. It makes more sense to wait, unless they love you and your work so much that they're willing to throw economic reason out the window.” I think it's an interesting perspective. The business of manufacturing scarcity with easily-copied products fascinates me. I share your view in regards to purchasing games: I'd rather spend more on an experience that really matters to me. [1]http://www.pcgamer.com/passage-developer-jason-rohrer-makes-the-case-against-steam-sales/
That's a good idea. A nice way to limit yourself by not only placing a physical dollar amount but also not having to deal with calculating each purchase. Once you spend the $20 -- you're done.