What Should I Do with Old Video Games? How to Buy, Sell, and Keep Them in Good Condition

As gamers, we often accumulate a collection of old video games over the years. Whether they were part of a favorite console generation or bought impulsively during a sale, these games can hold a lot of sentimental value. But what should you do with them? Should you hold on to them, sell them, or trade them in? And how do you keep them in good condition if you want to preserve them? In this blog, we’ll explore different ways to manage your collection of old video games—whether it’s preserving them for the future, selling them for cash, or buying new additions to your collection.

1. Selling Your Old Video Games

Why Sell Your Old Games?

Selling old games is a great way to make some extra cash or free up space for new titles. If your games are gathering dust and you’ve outgrown them, why not pass them on to someone who will enjoy them? Plus, selling your old video games can help you fund the purchase of newer titles or upgrades.

Where to Sell Your Old Games:

  • Online Marketplaces:
    • eBay: One of the best platforms to sell games, eBay gives you the option to auction or sell your games at a fixed price. If you have rare or vintage games, eBay can connect you with global buyers willing to pay a premium.
    • Amazon: Amazon allows third-party sellers to list used games. It’s a convenient option for those who don’t want to deal with auctions.
    • Facebook Marketplace: For local sales, Facebook Marketplace is a solid choice. You can sell games quickly and avoid shipping fees.
    • GameStop: GameStop offers trade-in options for old games, but keep in mind that they may offer lower prices compared to direct sales through platforms like eBay.
  • Specialty Gaming Stores:
    • Some local retro gaming stores may be interested in buying your old games, especially if they’re classic or rare titles. These stores can be a great place to sell or trade your games for cash or store credit.

How to Sell:

  • Check the Condition: Be honest about the condition of your game. Buyers often expect the game to be in good condition (free of scratches, with the original case and manual if possible).
  • Research Prices: Before listing your game for sale, research how much it’s worth. Some older games or limited editions may fetch a higher price. Use price guides or online platforms to get an idea of your game’s current market value.
  • Set a Fair Price: When pricing your game, make sure it reflects its condition. Be prepared to negotiate if you’re selling locally.

2. Buying Old Video Games

Why Buy Old Games?

Old video games can be more than just nostalgic items—they can be valuable collector’s pieces, offering rare content or classic experiences that you can’t find in newer titles. Whether you’re looking to complete your collection or explore games from previous generations, buying old video games is a rewarding pursuit.

Where to Buy Old Games:

  • Online Marketplaces:

    • eBay: eBay is one of the best places to find both common and rare old games. You can find sealed editions, collector’s items, and even consoles bundled with games.
    • Amazon: Many third-party sellers list used and vintage games on Amazon, often with the option to choose from different conditions (e.g., “like new” or “acceptable”).
    • Retro Gaming Stores: Stores that specialize in retro or vintage gaming often have curated selections of older games that may not be available elsewhere.

  • Thrift Stores:

    • Don’t overlook your local thrift stores. Many secondhand shops carry old video games for significantly lower prices, sometimes even sealed or in near-new condition.

  • Specialty Conventions and Markets:

    • Gaming conventions often have vendors selling rare games, and you can meet other collectors. Look for booths with vintage games to find games you might not come across in stores.

How to Buy:

  • Know What You’re Looking For: Do your research and figure out which games you want. Use guides or websites like PriceCharting.com to get an idea of prices for old titles.
  • Check the Condition: Look for games with the original packaging and manual if possible. Always check if the game is in working condition, especially when buying used games online.
  • Verify Sellers: Check the reputation of the seller before making a purchase. For platforms like eBay and Amazon, see if they have reviews or ratings from previous buyers.

3. How to Keep Your Old Video Games in Good Condition

Why Keep Your Old Games?

If you have rare, valuable, or sentimental games, keeping them in good condition can ensure they retain their value and that future generations can enjoy them. Proper care will also keep your games playable and looking great.

Storage Tips:

  • Store Games in a Cool, Dry Place: Heat and moisture are the enemies of video games. Avoid storing games in places with high humidity, such as basements or attics. Instead, keep them in a dry, cool environment.

  • Keep Games in Their Original Cases: Whenever possible, store your games in their original cases with the artwork, manuals, and discs. This keeps them in better condition and helps maintain their value.

  • Use Protective Sleeves: Consider placing your game discs or cartridges in protective sleeves to prevent scratches or damage.

  • Clean Your Games: Use a soft cloth to gently clean the discs of any dirt or fingerprints. For cartridge-based games, use a soft brush or air blower to remove dust from the connectors.

  • Avoid Frequent Handling: Constantly removing discs from their cases can lead to scratches. Handle your games as little as possible, and always store them properly after use.

Preserving Old Consoles:

If you’re keeping your old consoles to play these games, make sure to:

  • Clean the Ports: Dust can accumulate inside the console and affect performance. Use compressed air to clean the ports, particularly the cartridge slots and CD drives.
  • Avoid Overheating: Make sure your console is well-ventilated during use. Overheating can damage the internal components over time.

4. Game Collecting and Investment

Why Collect Games?

Game collecting is a popular hobby, and rare or limited-edition titles can increase in value over time. Some collectors focus on specific consoles (e.g., NES, Super Nintendo, PlayStation), while others may focus on particular game franchises.

How to Start Collecting:

  • Focus on a Niche: You don’t need to collect everything. Choose a specific console or type of game you want to focus on (e.g., PlayStation 1 games or limited edition releases).
  • Research Market Trends: Keep an eye on the gaming market and which games are becoming valuable. Websites like PriceCharting.com provide price guides for popular consoles and games.
  • Keep an Eye on Auctions: Rare games often show up in auctions. Websites like eBay and Heritage Auctions are places to find collectibles.

Conclusion

Whether you decide to sell, buy, or keep your old video games, it’s important to think about their value—both sentimental and financial. Selling can be a great way to declutter and earn some extra cash, while buying old games allows you to revisit the classics or find rare titles. If you decide to keep them, proper care and storage will ensure that your collection stays in excellent condition for years to come.

Are you looking to start a collection, or are you thinking about selling some old games? Let me know if you’d like tips on specific games or how to make the most of your gaming collection!

Here’s a more detailed guide on game preservation and how to keep your video games in optimal condition:

How to Preserve Your Video Games: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Storing Your Games Properly

Temperature and Humidity Control

  • Ideal Conditions: The best temperature to store video games is between 60-70°F (15-21°C), with a humidity level of 40-60%. These conditions prevent discs from warping, and the game cases and boxes from deteriorating.
  • Avoid Hot or Humid Areas: Basements, attics, and areas near radiators or air conditioning units are usually not ideal. Humidity and extreme heat can cause game discs to warp, manuals to yellow, and the artwork to peel or fade.
  • Use a Climate-Controlled Space: If you can, store your games in an area where you can regulate the temperature and humidity, like a closet or a shelving unit in a room that doesn’t fluctuate too much.

Keeping Games in Their Original Cases

  • Disc-Based Games: Always store CDs and DVDs in their original jewel cases or game-specific cases. These protect the discs from scratches, dust, and light exposure.
    • Tip: Don’t place multiple discs in the same case, as the friction can scratch them. Each game should have its own protective case.
  • Cartridges: For cartridge-based games (e.g., NES, Super Nintendo, Game Boy), keep them in their original plastic or cardboard boxes. If they are loose, consider getting plastic cartridge cases to keep them safe.

2. Cleaning Your Video Games

Disc-Based Games

  • Cleaning Tools:
    • Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down your disc. Always clean in a straight line from the center to the edge to avoid causing scratches.
    • For stubborn smudges or fingerprints, lightly dampen the cloth with water or isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher). Never spray liquid directly onto the disc—always apply it to the cloth first.
    • For more serious grime or if your disc is heavily scratched, you might consider using a disc repair kit.
  • Storing and Handling:
    • Avoid Fingerprints: Hold discs by the edges and center hole, not the surface, to avoid getting fingerprints or oils on the game.
    • Avoid Sunlight: Never leave discs in direct sunlight or expose them to excessive heat, as this can warp or damage the media.

Cartridges

  • Cleaning Cartridges: Over time, dirt can accumulate in the cartridge connectors (the metal prongs). To clean them, use a soft cotton swab or Q-tip lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Gently rub the swab on the connectors until they are clean.
  • Do not use excessive force: It’s crucial to be gentle while cleaning to avoid damaging the internal parts of the cartridge.

3. Protecting Game Cases and Artwork

Preserving Game Boxes

  • Plastic Sleeves: Use plastic protective sleeves to preserve cardboard boxes, especially for older games. This prevents damage from dust, dirt, and moisture.
  • Avoid Yellowing: Keep games out of direct sunlight to prevent the artwork from fading or yellowing. Also, consider using acid-free paper to store manuals or inserts separately from the box to protect them from disintegration.

Manuals and Inserts

  • Preserve Manuals: Place game manuals in acid-free plastic sleeves or binder pages for safe storage. This prevents creases, tears, and fading.
  • Avoid Folding: Never fold the manuals, and always keep them flat to maintain their integrity.

4. Using Digital Preservation for Your Games

Backing Up Your Games

  • For digital games, always back them up to avoid losing them due to system failures. With the transition to cloud storage and digital downloads, services like Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus allow you to access your games from anywhere, but keeping your games backed up ensures they are secure in case of a problem.

Digital Game Preservation:

  • Keep Your Game Accounts Active: Regularly check your accounts (e.g., PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, Steam) to make sure your games are tied to your account and are protected from deletion. Some platforms also offer cloud saves to preserve your progress.

5. Long-Term Storage Tips for Collectors

Protecting Rare and Valuable Games

  • Use Display Cabinets: If you’re a collector with rare games, consider using a display cabinet with doors to showcase your collection while keeping it dust-free.
  • Humidity Control: To avoid potential damage to game boxes and cartridges, consider investing in a dehumidifier for the room where your collection is stored.
  • Invest in Safe Storage Solutions: If you have valuable or rare games (e.g., limited editions), look into fireproof and waterproof storage boxes for additional protection.

Insurance:

  • If you have a particularly valuable collection (such as sealed games or limited editions), you may want to insure your collection. This protects you in the case of theft, fire, or other unexpected events.

6. Restoring and Repairing Old Games

Disc Repair

  • Minor Scratches: If you have a scratched disc that won’t load properly, there are disc repair machines available that can help polish out light scratches. These machines gently smooth out the surface of the disc, making it more readable.

Cartridge Restoration

  • If your cartridge isn’t working due to poor connections, try cleaning the connectors or using contact cleaner designed for electronics. In some cases, replacing the battery inside cartridges (e.g., Game Boy or NES games) may be necessary to preserve game data (especially for save files).

7. What About Selling or Donating Games?

When to Sell:

  • If you have games that no longer interest you or are taking up valuable space, selling them can help you earn some cash or allow others to enjoy them.

  • Game Value: Use platforms like eBay or PriceCharting to check the current value of your games before selling. Games in sealed condition or with limited editions may fetch a higher price.

Donating Games:

  • If your games are still in good condition but you no longer need them, donating them to a local charity, school, or children’s hospital can be a great way to give back and help others experience the joy of gaming.

Conclusion: Preserving Your Gaming Collection

Preserving old video games is about more than just keeping them in good condition—it’s about respecting the history of the medium and ensuring that these games can be enjoyed for generations to come. Whether you're keeping them as part of a collection, ensuring they stay in pristine condition, or deciding to sell them, it’s important to handle your games with care to maintain their value and usability.

With the right storage, cleaning methods, and preservation techniques, your collection will remain in excellent shape for years to come. Whether you’re looking to protect your valuable games, sell old ones, or invest in new ones, the key is to stay proactive and informed.

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