Your Guide to Collecting Retro Video Games

Collecting old video games isn't just a hobby—it's like becoming a curator of digital history. For some of us, it’s about holding onto the art and nostalgia of the games we grew up with. For others, it's all about the thrill of the hunt for that one rare, valuable title.

Why Start Collecting Retro Video Games

Getting into retro game collecting is like firing up a time machine. It’s a chance to reconnect with incredible childhood memories and experience gaming history with your own two hands. This isn't just about stacking up old cartridges; it's about preserving the culture, the art, and the wild innovation that created the games we play today. You're not just buying old stuff—you're building your own personal museum.

The community built around this hobby is one of the best parts. It's a massive, welcoming network of people all over the world who love to share what they know, trade stories, and just celebrate the golden age of gaming. Whether you're trying to find a pristine, complete-in-box classic or just the one game you couldn't put down as a kid, you’ll find people who get it.

Understanding the Modern Collector's Landscape

The scene has changed a lot over the years. We saw a huge boom in interest between 2019 and 2020, with tons of people diving headfirst into collecting classics. That frantic pace has cooled off a bit since then, mostly because the market got crowded and prices shot up. Now, collecting smart is more important than ever.

Think of this guide as your roadmap. We’ll walk through the essentials of building a collection that means something to you and won't break the bank.

• Defining Your Focus: We'll help you figure out what really gets you excited—a specific console, a certain genre, or even a favorite developer—to give your collection a clear direction.
• Mastering the Hunt: You'll learn the best spots to find genuine retro games, from dusty thrift store shelves to dedicated online forums.
• Budgeting Wisely: Get real-world advice for building an awesome collection without overspending, so the hobby stays fun.
• Authentication and Preservation: Learn the critical skills to spot fakes and take proper care of your games, protecting your investment for the long haul.

Before we get into the weeds, it's a good idea to know exactly what defines a retro game and why certain eras are so special. Having that baseline knowledge will help you make better choices on your collecting adventure. Welcome to the community; let's get started.

What Kind of Collector Are You?

Before you spend a single dollar, take a moment to think about what you really want to collect. If you don't, you can easily end up with a random, meaningless pile of cartridges and discs. A focused collection, on the other hand, tells a story—your story.

Think of it like being the curator of your own little museum. The goal is to build something with a clear purpose right from the start. This simple step saves you from future buyer's remorse and makes every new game you add feel like a win.

Choosing Your Collecting Path

Without a clear goal, you risk buying anything and everything that catches your eye. That's a fast track to feeling overwhelmed and unsatisfied. A better approach is to pick a lane and stick to it, giving your collection a cohesive theme.

Here are a few popular ways collectors find their focus:

• By Console: You could dedicate yourself to a single platform, like trying to get every North American release for the Super Nintendo. Or maybe you want a complete library for the Sega Dreamcast. It gives you a clear and achievable mission.
• By Genre: Are you a huge fan of a particular style of game? You could build a collection around the golden age of Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs) on the PlayStation or focus on classic 2D fighters from the '90s.
• By Developer/Publisher: Sometimes, it’s the creators who are the real stars. You might decide to collect every game developed by a legendary studio like Capcom in their 16-bit prime or hunt down every title Konami put out for the original NES.
• By Personal Nostalgia: This is often the most powerful motivation. Build a collection based on the games that defined your childhood. It’s a deeply personal journey focused on recreating the library you had—or the one you always wished you had.

A well-defined collection is more than just a bunch of games; it's a narrative. It tells people what you love about gaming history, whether that’s the innovation of a specific console, the artistry of a genre, or the personal memories tied to each title.

Setting Your Ground Rules

Once you have a general direction, it’s time to dial in the specifics. Think of these as the "rules" for your collection. They'll help you make smart, targeted decisions when you're out in the wild hunting for games.

Ask yourself these questions to narrow things down even further:

1. What's my standard for condition? Are you a "Complete in Box" (CIB) purist who needs the original packaging and manual? Or are you perfectly happy with loose cartridges that just get the job done? Deciding this early is critical, as CIB games are worlds apart from loose ones in both price and rarity.
2. Am I a player or a preserver? Is your main goal to actually play these games on the original hardware, or do you see yourself as more of a historian, preserving these artifacts for the future? Your answer will determine if you should prioritize durability or hunt for pristine, sealed copies.
3. What's my regional focus? Many classic games were released differently in North America (NTSC), Europe (PAL), and Japan (NTSC-J), sometimes with completely different box art or even content. Picking a region keeps your collection from getting too scattered and unfocused.

Answering these questions gives you a solid framework. You're no longer just randomly buying old games—you're on a quest. This sense of purpose is what makes retro game collecting so rewarding.

Where to Hunt for Retro Gaming Gems

Alright, you've got a clear vision for your collection. Now comes the best part: the hunt. There's truly no feeling quite like finally tracking down a game you've been searching for. Think of yourself as a treasure hunter, and what follows is your map to uncovering priceless artifacts from gaming history.

The places you can find these gems are incredibly diverse, from dusty, forgotten corners in your own town to sprawling digital marketplaces that connect collectors across the globe. Success here is a mix of patience, know-how, and, let's be honest, a little bit of luck.

Exploring Your Local Hunting Grounds

Before you even think about opening a new browser tab, start your search close to home. You'd be absolutely shocked at what you can find just a short drive away. These local spots are often fantastic for stumbling upon unexpected deals, mainly because sellers might not know the true market value of what they have.

• Thrift Stores and Pawn Shops: These are the classic stomping grounds for any collector. Finds can be hit-or-miss, but the potential for a major score is always lurking. Keep your eyes peeled for games mixed in with old DVDs or electronics.
• Flea Markets and Garage Sales: Get up early on a weekend and hit the local flea markets or yard sales. You'll often find games sold in bundles, and most sellers are more than willing to haggle, especially if you're buying a few things.
• Dedicated Retro Game Stores: Your local retro game shop is an invaluable resource. The people working there are usually passionate collectors themselves and can offer fantastic advice. While their prices will be closer to market value, you're paying for guaranteed authenticity and high-quality, curated items.

The biggest advantage of these physical locations is the ability to inspect games with your own two hands. This is a crucial step for avoiding fakes and getting a real sense of an item's condition. Plus, building a good relationship with local store owners can lead to them setting aside new arrivals they think you'll love.

Navigating the Digital Frontier

The online world throws open the doors to a global inventory, giving you access to just about any game ever made. But this vastness comes with its own set of challenges, from learning how to spot fakes to properly vetting sellers. Mastering the online hunt is a key skill for any serious collector.

eBay is the obvious first stop, with millions of listings at any given time. Get comfortable with its advanced search filters to narrow things down by region, condition, and auction type. Before you even think about bidding, always check a seller's feedback score and read their recent reviews. Be wary of listings that use stock photos or have vague, one-line descriptions—those can be major red flags.

The condition of a game has a massive impact on its value, especially when you're buying online and can't inspect it firsthand. A "Complete in Box" (CIB) copy can be worth two to three times more than just the loose cartridge.

To see what a difference it makes, just look at how the average market values shift based on a game's condition.

This is precisely why clear, detailed photos and thorough descriptions from online sellers are non-negotiable.

Beyond the big marketplaces, collector forums and social media groups are goldmines for trading and buying directly from other enthusiasts. These communities often have strict rules that protect both buyers and sellers, which helps create a more trustworthy environment. You can often find better prices and snag rarer items here than on mainstream sites.

And hey, as you dive deeper into video games, you might find your passion extends to the arcades. For anyone curious about that world, check out this excellent beginner's guide to collecting old arcade games.

Comparing Retro Game Sourcing Channels

Choosing where to look can be overwhelming. Each option has its own rhythm and rewards. This table breaks down the most common places to find games, so you know what to expect.

Ultimately, the best strategy is to use a mix of these channels. A lucky find at a garage sale can help you save up for a grail piece from a trusted online seller.

The Thrill of Conventions and Community

Finally, don't ever underestimate the power of in-person events. Gaming conventions and retro expos are these vibrant, energetic hubs where collectors, vendors, and fans all come together to celebrate the hobby. These events are fantastic for tracking down rare items, meeting people who share your passion, and even trading games from your own collection to get something you really want.

These conventions are living proof that the community-driven market is as strong as ever. It's an experience that no online store can ever hope to replicate.

Building a Collection Without Breaking the Bank

There's nothing quite like the thrill of hunting down classic video games, but let's be honest—the price tags on some of the most iconic titles can be downright scary. The good news? You don't need a massive trust fund to build a collection you can be proud of. It just takes a bit of strategy and discipline to grow your library without emptying your bank account.

The key is to shift your mindset from a casual shopper to a savvy investor. That simple change is the first real step toward building a collection that's both rewarding and financially sustainable. It’s all about making smart, calculated moves instead of just snapping up whatever catches your eye.

Create Your Financial Game Plan

The single biggest mistake I see new collectors make is buying on impulse. That adrenaline rush from finding a rare game is real, but a few too many of those unplanned purchases will drain your funds fast. The antidote is simple: a budget and a "want list."

First, figure out a realistic amount you can put aside for the hobby each month. Whether it’s $50, $100, or more, the actual number doesn't matter as much as sticking to it. This discipline is what keeps your passion from becoming a financial headache.

Next, you need a prioritized want list. Think of this as your roadmap; it keeps you focused on the games that actually mean something to you and fit your collection's theme. A tiered approach works wonders here.

• Tier 1 (The Grails): These are your dream games, the cornerstones of your collection that you're willing to save up for.
• Tier 2 (The Must-Haves): These are the important titles that will fill in the major gaps in your library.
• Tier 3 (The Nice-to-Haves): These are fun additions you can grab when a good deal pops up, but you aren't actively hunting for them.

This system helps you decide where your money goes. You might save for a few months to land a Tier 1 grail, or use one month's budget to knock out a handful of Tier 3 games.

Become a Price-Savvy Buyer

In the retro gaming world, knowledge is power. You should never, ever pay more than you have to. Before you even think about buying a game, you need to know what it's actually worth on the open market.

Websites like PriceCharting are your best friend. They pull sales data from all over the internet, giving you an up-to-date look at what a game is selling for, whether it's a loose cart, complete in box, or brand new. Use these tools to set a baseline price in your head. It will help you spot an overpriced listing a mile away—and, more importantly, recognize a true bargain when you see it.

Patience is the collector’s ultimate superpower. The market for retro games fluctuates, and prices can dip. Waiting for the right opportunity or for a seller to lower their asking price is a strategy that almost always pays off.

Master the Art of the Trade

One of the best (and cheapest) ways to grow your collection is by trading. Don't look at your duplicates or unwanted games as clutter; they are assets you can use to get the titles you really want.

Collector forums and local gaming groups are fantastic places to find people looking to trade. Maybe you have two copies of a popular game—you can easily swap one for a title of similar value that's on your want list. In essence, you just got a "new" game for free. This approach not only saves you money but also connects you with other collectors who share your passion.

And if you're looking to expand into hardware, knowing what's worth trading for is crucial. Our guide on the best retro gaming consoles can help you identify which systems to keep an eye out for. By combining a smart budget, patient research, and a bit of trading, you can build an amazing collection one piece at a time.

How to Spot Fakes and Authenticate Your Games

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As retro game collecting has exploded in popularity, an unfortunate shadow market of fakes has grown right alongside it. Counterfeit games, often deceptively called "reproductions" or "repos," are absolutely everywhere. Learning how to spot them is probably the single most important skill you can develop as a collector.

This is about more than just protecting your investment; it’s about making sure your collection is filled with genuine pieces of gaming history. Think of it like being a detective. Every game holds a series of clues—subtle details that separate the real deal from a cheap knock-off. You don't need to memorize every tiny detail of every game ever made. Instead, you just need a solid inspection process you can apply to any cartridge, box, or manual that comes your way.

The Anatomy of a Game Cartridge

The cartridge itself is your number one source of clues. Nintendo, Sega, and others had specific manufacturing standards, and counterfeiters almost always cut corners, leaving behind a trail of tell-tale signs.

Start by just feeling the plastic shell. An authentic Nintendo cartridge, for instance, has a very distinct matte texture and a specific grain to it. Fakes often feel cheap, too smooth, or have a slight glossiness they shouldn't. The color can be a giveaway, too—a fake gray NES cart might be just a shade too dark or too light compared to an original you know is real.

Next, zero in on the label. This is where so many fakes completely fall apart.

• Label Quality: Official labels have a very particular finish. An NES label has a matte, almost papery feel, while SNES labels have a bit of a gloss. Reproductions are often printed on overly glossy, modern sticker paper that just feels wrong.
• Print Resolution: Get your eyes up close and personal with the artwork and text. On a genuine label, the art is crisp and the colors look right. Counterfeits often suffer from blurry text, pixelated images, or colors that are either washed out or way too saturated.
• Logos and Seals: The official Nintendo Seal of Quality is a classic authentication checkpoint. On a real cart, the seal is sharp with a distinct golden sheen. On fakes, it often looks blurry, is printed in a flat yellow or orange color, and might even have the wrong trademark symbol.

Authentication is a game of consistency. Nintendo, Sega, and other manufacturers used the same high-quality materials and processes for millions of cartridges. A fake stands out because it breaks that established pattern of quality and design.

Inspecting the Hardware Inside and Out

To really level up your authentication skills, you have to look beyond the surface. The little details in a cartridge's construction can be an instant dead giveaway.

A great place to start is the screws. Nintendo used proprietary screws for a reason. NES games use a 3.8mm "game bit" screw, while SNES and N64 games use a slightly larger 4.5mm version. If you ever see a standard Phillips-head screw on a Nintendo cartridge, that’s a massive red flag. It means the shell is either a complete fake or has been swapped out at some point.

The ultimate confirmation, though, is looking at the circuit board—the PCB (Printed Circuit Board)—inside. You’ll need to pick up a set of those game bit screwdrivers to open the cartridge without damaging it. Once you're in, here’s what to look for:

1. Manufacturer's Markings: A real PCB will almost always have the manufacturer's name (like "Nintendo") and a copyright date printed right onto the board, usually in white lettering.
2. Chip Quality: Take a look at the chips soldered to the board. They should have clear, professional markings from known manufacturers. Fakes often use generic, unmarked chips or have sloppy, amateur-looking soldering jobs.
3. The "Blob": The most glaring, undeniable sign of a modern fake is the black "epoxy blob." This is a cheap shortcut counterfeiters use to cover the main chip. No authentic NES, SNES, or N64 game ever, ever used this.

Authenticating Boxes and Manuals

For anyone chasing those beautiful "Complete in Box" (CIB) copies, checking the packaging is just as critical as checking the game. Fake boxes and manuals are incredibly common, especially for the heavy-hitter, high-value titles.

When you're inspecting a box, pay close attention to the cardboard itself. Original boxes were made from a specific type of thin cardstock with a matte finish. Fake boxes often use modern, glossy cardboard that feels way too thick and stiff. All the print quality rules apply here, too—be on the lookout for pixelated art and fuzzy text.

Manuals follow the exact same logic. Authentic manuals were printed on thin, almost newspaper-like paper. If a manual feels like it was printed on standard, glossy office paper, it's almost certainly a reproduction. Even the staples can be a clue; they should be clean and tight, not rusty or clumsily applied. Once you get a feel for these little details, you'll have the power to build a collection you know is 100% genuine.

Preserving Your Collection for the Future

You've spent all this time hunting down these amazing pieces of gaming history; now you have to protect them. Proper preservation is what turns a fun hobby into a lasting legacy, making sure your games stay playable and valuable for years—or even decades—to come. You're not just a collector; you're a curator.

The biggest threats to your retro games are surprisingly simple but incredibly destructive: dust, humidity, and UV light. Over time, these everyday elements will degrade plastic cases, fade vibrant box art, and corrode the delicate electronics inside. Storing your collection the right way is the single most important thing you can do.

Creating a Safe Haven for Your Games

First things first: keep everything in a cool, dry, and dark place. A closet in a climate-controlled room is perfect. Basements and attics are the absolute worst spots, as the wild swings in temperature and humidity can cause warping, mold, and all sorts of irreversible damage.

Next, you need to give your games a physical shield against the world. For anyone even remotely serious about collecting, investing in good storage solutions isn't optional—it's essential.

• Protective Cases: Get some clear, acid-free plastic box protectors for your boxed games. They're like a suit of armor, defending against shelf wear, dust, and bumps without hiding that gorgeous artwork.
• Cartridge Sleeves: For loose cartridges, even simple plastic dust covers make a huge difference. They keep grime out of the contacts and protect the label from getting scuffed up.
• Archival Bags: Don't forget the manuals and inserts! Archival-quality bags will keep the paper safe from moisture and prevent the acids in the paper from slowly destroying them over time.

Protecting your games isn't just about stopping scratches and dings; it's about preserving their value and the ability to actually play them. A well-cared-for game is a piece of playable art that someone else can enjoy years from now.

When you're putting everything on the shelf, always store your games vertically, just like books. If you stack them flat, the weight puts a ton of pressure on the games at the bottom, which can crush boxes and even crack cartridge shells. It's a small change that has a massive impact.

Essential Cleaning and Maintenance

Beyond just storing them safely, a little bit of regular maintenance will keep your collection in working order. More often than not, a game that won't load is just dirty. A simple, careful cleaning can bring countless "broken" games right back to life.

For cartridge games, the metal contact pins are what need the most attention.

1. Get a cotton swab and dip it in 91% or higher isopropyl alcohol. Anything less has too much water.
2. Gently scrub the contact pins on both sides. Keep going until the swab comes away clean. You'd be surprised how much gunk comes off.
3. Let the cartridge air dry completely for at least 10-15 minutes before you even think about putting it in your console.

For the outer plastic shells, a slightly damp cloth works wonders for surface grime. If you've got dirt stuck in the seams, a soft-bristled toothbrush is perfect for getting it out. And don't forget your consoles! Regularly dusting out the vents and cartridge slots prevents buildup and helps your classic hardware run cooler and more reliably.

Follow these steps, and your collection will stay a source of joy instead of becoming a box of decaying plastic.

Frequently Asked Questions About Retro Game Collecting

As you start diving into the world of retro games, you're bound to have some questions. It's a hobby with a lot of quirks, from figuring out a fair price to learning all the lingo.

To help you get started on the right foot, I’ve put together answers to some of the most common questions new collectors ask. Think of this as a crash course to help you build your collection confidently and sidestep some of the rookie mistakes.

What Does CIB Mean and Why Is It So Important?

You’ll see the term "CIB" pop up everywhere in the collecting community. It’s an acronym for "Complete in Box," which means a game comes with everything it originally did: the cartridge or disc, the box, and the instruction manual. You might also run into variations like "CI" (cartridge and instructions) or "CB" (cartridge and box).

Why does this matter so much? Because the completeness and condition of a game have a massive impact on its value. A CIB copy of a game can easily be worth two to three times more than a loose cartridge. For many collectors, finding a mint-condition CIB game is like finding a time capsule—it’s the complete, authentic experience, preserved just as it was on store shelves years ago.

How Do I Know What a Retro Game Is Worth?

Learning how to value a game is one of the most important skills you can develop as a collector. The market is always shifting based on rarity, demand, and a game's condition. Luckily, you don't have to go in blind.

Your best friend here is a website called PriceCharting. It tracks actual sold listings from places like eBay, giving you a real-time look at what games are actually selling for. You can see the going rate for loose carts, CIB copies, and even brand-new sealed games. It’s an essential tool.

Never just take a seller's word on price. Before you buy anything, take five minutes to look it up on a price-tracking site. This simple step will save you from overpaying and help you spot a great deal when one comes along.

Is It Better to Collect for Nostalgia or Investment?

Honestly, this one comes down to you, but the best approach is usually a little of both. Most of us get into this hobby because of nostalgia—we want to own the games we grew up playing and loving. That’s a fantastic foundation for a collection that truly means something to you.

At the same time, it’s smart to keep an eye on the investment side of things. Even if you never plan on selling, knowing a game's value helps you make smarter buying decisions. The sweet spot is building a collection you’re passionate about that also happens to grow in value over time. It’s the ultimate win-win.

At Old Arcade, we live and breathe classic gaming. We're here to help you reconnect with the consoles and games that started it all. Our collection is carefully curated to be your gateway back to that golden age. Explore our store and find your next treasure at https://oldarcade.store.