Reselling console video games can be a rewarding and profitable venture for gaming enthusiasts. Whether you’re a collector, a hobbyist, or simply looking to make some extra cash, the world of reselling offers plenty of opportunities. However, success in this endeavor requires knowledge, careful research, and attention to detail. In this blog post, we will explore key aspects of reselling console video games, including what to look for, what to avoid, how to check for damage, and the best places to research values. Let’s dive in!
Where to Find Used Games
- Garage Sales, Thrift Stores, Flea Markets. Always check yard sales, markets, and thrift stores in your area. Often times they will sell their used video games at low prices without realizing their true value.
- Online Marketplaces (eBay, Mercari, ShopGoodwill). Often times you’ll find sellers unloading larger lots of games on various marketplaces. Research individual titles and check to see if you can turn a profit if you sold them individually or in smaller lots.
- Local Marketplaces (Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Nextdoor). People often sell used video games directly, allowing you to negotiate prices or find good deals.
- Local Game Stores (GameStop, Game Craze). Independent game stores or larger retailers that specialize in video games often have a selection of used games available for purchase. While these may be on the higher end of used prices, sometimes you will find prices low enough or sales that may make a title worth flipping.
What to Look For
- Popular Franchise Titles: Games associated with well-known and highly popular franchises, such as “The Legend of Zelda,” “Final Fantasy,” or “Pokemon,” tend to retain their value well. These games have a dedicated fan base that is willing to pay higher prices for them.
- Retro and Vintage Games: Older games from classic consoles, such as the NES, SNES, or Sega Genesis, have become sought-after items among collectors. Games that are in good condition and have nostalgic appeal can fetch significant prices.
- Cult Classics and Hidden Gems: Some games may not have been commercially successful during their initial release but have gained a cult following over time. These hidden gems often become sought-after and command higher prices in the used game market.
- Games with Collectible Items: Games that come bundled with special collector’s items like figurines, artbooks, or soundtracks tend to have increased resale value. These additional items enhance the overall desirability of the package.
- High-Demand Titles: Games that are in high demand due to their popularity, critical acclaim, or recent release can often fetch higher prices in the resale market. Keeping up with the latest gaming trends can help identify games with potential for increased value.
- Complete Packages: Games with their original boxes, manuals, and inserts are more desirable to collectors, often fetching higher prices. Look for games in excellent condition and ensure that all components are included.
- Popular and Trending Titles: Games that are in high demand or associated with popular franchises often have a higher resale value. Stay informed about current gaming trends and upcoming releases to identify potential profitable titles.
What to Avoid
- Damaged Discs or Cases: Avoid purchasing games with scratched or damaged discs, as they may be difficult to resell or fetch a lower price. Similarly, games with damaged or heavily worn cases are less attractive to buyers.
- Outdated or Unpopular Games: While every game has its audience, be cautious when investing in outdated or unpopular titles. These games may have limited demand, making it harder to find buyers willing to pay a premium for individual titles. That said, many older games will still sell in lots. So if you get a great deal on a stack of PS2 games, try bundling them together and selling them as a set.
- Unauthorized Copies or Bootlegs: Stay away from counterfeit or unauthorized copies of games. Not only are they illegal, but they also hold no value in the resale market. Counterfeit games may have low-quality printing, blurry images, or color variations compared to the original. Look for signs of poor craftsmanship, such as uneven cuts or misaligned printing. Other telltale signs are spelling and grammar errors, lower print quality, faded colors, or missing logos. Look for any signs of unusual or altered designs.
Checking for Damage
- Disc Condition: Inspect game discs for scratches, smudges, or signs of wear. Light surface scratches can often be repaired, but deep scratches can affect gameplay or resale value.
- Case Condition: Check the condition of the game case for cracks, broken hinges, or excessive wear. A well-maintained case adds value to the overall package.
Reader Tip
“If you find empty game cases or games that are missing discs, you should still pick them up if they are free or cheap. This will give you extra cases in case you need to swap out a damaged case or cover art from another game!”
- Manuals and Inserts: Ensure that any accompanying manuals, inserts, or additional content are included and in good condition. These components usually contribute to the overall value and desirability of the game.
Where to Research Values
The easiest way to determine the value of a game you are looking to sell is to search for it on your platform(s) of choice to see what they have sold for recently. This will give you a good idea on if it’s worth picking up.
Gaming communities and forums are good places to scan. You’ll often see enthusiasts discuss game values, trends, and what is in demand.
Additionally, price tracking websites like PriceCharting track game values and offer historical data on pricing trends. Utilize these tools to get a better understanding of a game’s value over time.
Conclusion
Reselling console video games can be a profitable venture if you know what to look for, what to avoid, how to check for damage, and where to research values. By considering factors like rarity, condition, popular franchises, and avoiding pitfalls, you can maximize your chances of success. Additionally, thorough inspection for damage and utilizing online marketplaces, price guides, and gaming communities will equip you with the necessary knowledge to make informed reselling decisions. Start building your collection and join the thriving world of console video game reselling today!
