
Retro game prices have been climbing for years. What used to sit in thrift stores for a couple of bucks now regularly goes for $30 or more. And yet โ or maybe because of that โ now is actually a great time to start.
Why? Because not everything is expensive. Because collecting is fun. And because there's nothing quite as satisfying as building up a complete shelf.
The best-selling console of all time with over 155 million units sold and a library of more than 4,000 games. That makes it perfect for beginners:
Budget tip: Start with Greatest Hits / Platinum versions. Same game, half the price.
Compact, durable, and affordable. Game Boy games are perfect for collecting:
Gets a bit pricier, but the library is fantastic. A hidden gem that's rapidly increasing in value.
The classics. More expensive to collect, but the games are timeless.
Still the best place for deals. Many sellers don't know the value. Come early, be friendly, negotiate fairly.
eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Mercari โ huge selection, but:
Fair price, verified condition, ready to play. Perfect when you value quality over bargains.
Retro game shows and gaming conventions are pure gold. You meet like-minded collectors, can inspect games hands-on, and often trade.
Collecting is a marathon, not a sprint. Set a monthly budget ($20-50 is plenty) and stick to it.
A YouTuber showcases a rare game and suddenly the price doubles. Don't buy into the hype. Wait it out โ prices usually normalize.
A CIB (Complete in Box) game is worth significantly more than a loose cartridge or a disc without its case. Look for:
You're at the flea market and can't remember if you already have that game? Classic. Keep a digital list โ you always have your phone on you.
The most beautiful collection means nothing if you never pop in a game. Take time to play. That's what they're for.
Once you hit a certain size, you need a system:
Digital tracking is even better: total value, missing titles, statistics โ everything at a glance. Tools like Kollekto make it easy with barcode scanning and automatic database lookup.
Retro game collecting is one of the best hobbies out there. You combine nostalgia with an active community, constantly learn new things, and build something that appreciates in value.
Start small. Set a budget. Keep a list. And most importantly: have fun with it.
What was the first retro game you consciously bought as a collectible? Share your story in the community.