My first Vegas trip was done on the cheap... because I'm cheap.
Groupon can save some money. Bought the high roller happy half hour package (all you can drink).
Groupon usually has some of the buffets on their site. Caesar's buffet is on there right now. We did the Planet Hollywood buffet for like $25 per person (with free booze).
Nobody in our group had ever used Uber before the trip, so we made sure we got our free rides for referring each other. Caesar's is in the middle of it all, so he can save money by walking.
Only ever paid for one drink at a bar (even then, it was a BOGO). Packed mini bottles around so that we could just mix on the go.
Usually ate some breakfast bars in the morning, a quick lunch at one of the many fast food/food court places, and then a nicer dinner. There are CVSs and Walgreens on the strip. He can stock up on various things there to save money.
I've got nothing on shows. I never really found any deals that were that great.