I've been getting more serious about vintage video game collecting recently, and the market has changed so much over the years. Prices for some classic Nintendo games and retro Sega games have gone through the roof, while other gems are still surprisingly affordable.
I'm curious what tips people have for collecting in the current market. Where are the best places to find deals? How do you authenticate cartridges and avoid fakes? What should new collectors focus on if they're just starting out?
Personally, I've had good luck with local game stores and estate sales, but eBay can be hit or miss. I also think focusing on complete in box (CIB) games is getting harder and more expensive, so loose cartridges might be the way to go for budget collectors.
What are your vintage video game collecting strategies and experiences?
For vintage video game collecting, I've found that patience is key. Prices fluctuate constantly, and what's expensive today might be reasonable next month. I use price tracking websites and set up alerts for specific games I'm looking for.
Local game stores can be great, but you have to build relationships. The regulars often get first dibs on new arrivals. Estate sales and garage sales can yield amazing finds, but you have to be willing to get up early and hunt.
Authentication is crucial, especially for expensive games. Learn what original cartridges look and feel like. The weight, the label quality, the board inside... there are tells for fakes. When in doubt, ask for more pictures or seek advice from experienced collectors.
I focus on Japanese imports for a lot of my collecting. Games like Chrono Trigger and EarthBound are significantly cheaper in their Japanese versions, and many don't require much language knowledge to play. The boxes and manuals are often in better condition too.
For authentication, I always check the board. Opening up cartridges can be scary at first, but it's the only way to be sure. Buy the proper tools - a game bit screwdriver is essential. Also, learn to spot reproduction labels. The colors are often off, the printing quality is lower, and they feel different to the touch.
I recommend new collectors start with loose cartridges rather than complete in box. CIB prices have gone crazy, and you can build a great collection of games to actually play without breaking the bank. Boxes and manuals are nice, but they're not essential for enjoying the games.
Also, don't sleep on sports games and other common" titles. They're often cheap and can be fun to play. Sometimes you'll find gems hidden among them - rare variants, promotional copies, or games with interesting histories.
Most importantly, collect what you love. Don't just chase valuable games because they're valuable. Build a collection that reflects your personal tastes and gaming history.
For Sega collecting, be careful with Genesis games. The plastic cases are fragile and often cracked. Also, many games came in cardboard boxes that are hard to find in good condition. I prioritize game condition over completeness - a mint cartridge is better than a complete set with damaged components.
eBay can be good, but you have to be smart about it. Check seller ratings, read descriptions carefully, and don't be afraid to ask questions. For parts or repair" listings can sometimes yield working games at a discount if you're willing to take a risk.
Local retro gaming conventions are also great for finding deals and meeting other collectors. The community aspect is half the fun of collecting.
Storage is crucial for vintage video game collecting. Keep your games out of direct sunlight, away from moisture, and in a temperature-controlled environment. For cartridges, store them upright to prevent label damage. For disc-based games, keep them in their cases and store vertically.
Invest in proper cleaning supplies. Isopropyl alcohol, cotton swabs, and a good game bit screwdriver will save you money in the long run. Many broken" games just need a good cleaning of the contacts.
Also, document your collection. Take photos, keep records of what you paid, and note any unique features. This helps with insurance, trading, and just keeping track of what you have. Plus, it's satisfying to look back and see how your collection has grown.