Are Any Old Video Games Worth Anything?

Yes, absolutely! The world of vintage video games is far from a forgotten relic of the past. In fact, it’s a thriving marketplace where certain titles can fetch astronomical sums. While not every dusty cartridge in your attic is a gold mine, many old video games have significant value, driven by a combination of rarity, condition, historical significance, and the nostalgia factor. From sealed copies of iconic games to obscure titles with limited production runs, the potential for financial gain (or loss!) is considerable. So, before you toss out those old boxes, let’s dive into the world of collectible video games and explore what makes them valuable.

The Allure of Vintage Gaming

The reasons behind the surge in popularity of collecting vintage games are multifaceted. For many, it’s about reliving childhood memories. The pixelated graphics and simple gameplay mechanics of retro titles offer a comforting escape to a simpler era. Beyond nostalgia, there’s also a genuine appreciation for the artistry and innovation of these older games. They represent the foundations of the massive gaming industry we know today.

The rising prices are also driven by collectors who seek to own a piece of gaming history. The scarcity of certain games, especially those in pristine condition, creates high demand. This is similar to the market for other collectibles like rare coins, stamps, or comic books. Just like those hobbies, the value of video games can fluctuate, creating an exciting and sometimes unpredictable market.

Factors Influencing Value

Several factors determine whether a used video game is worth a few dollars or potentially thousands. Here’s a breakdown of the most important elements:

• Rarity: This is a major driving force. Limited-run games, promotional copies, or those with manufacturing errors are often incredibly rare and highly sought after. For example, “Game attack for the Atari 2600,” of which only one copy exists, is a prime example of extreme scarcity.
• Condition: Just like any collectible, condition is king. A sealed game in its original packaging, especially graded by a reputable service like WATA, will fetch a premium price compared to a loose cartridge or a damaged box. The grading service assesses the condition and assigns a score, with higher grades resulting in higher prices.
• Platform: Certain consoles have a stronger collector base. Nintendo NES games, for example, are often among the most valuable. However, games for other systems like the Atari 2600, Sega Genesis, and even the Nintendo 64 can also be worth considerable money if they’re rare.
• Game Title: Iconic and historically important games tend to be worth more. “Super Mario Bros.” and “The Legend of Zelda” are consistently high-value titles, particularly in sealed and high-graded condition.
• Grading: Professional grading by companies like WATA or VGA can significantly impact the value of a game. These companies assess the condition of the packaging and game, providing a standardized grade that buyers trust.
• Packaging & Manuals: Completeness matters. Games with their original box, manual, and inserts are generally worth more than just the cartridge alone.

The High-End of the Market

The most expensive vintage video games command prices that can rival real estate. A recent example of an ultra-high value title includes a sealed copy of “Super Mario 64 – Wata 9.8 A++“, which sold for a staggering $1.56 million at auction, setting a record for the most expensive video game ever sold. Similarly, a sealed copy of “The Legend of Zelda” fetched $870,000. The market is filled with similar stories, with some collectors having paid $2 million for a copy of “Super Mario Bros.”

These aren’t isolated incidents. The collectible video game market is becoming increasingly sophisticated, with online auctions and dedicated marketplaces facilitating these high-value transactions. The prices highlight the cultural significance and investment potential of certain games.

Recycling and Reselling

While some games are museum-worthy treasures, most old games might not command six-figure sums. However, this doesn’t mean they have no value. It’s good to know that most video games can be recycled, including the jackets and discs. Plenty of electronics recycling programs are available, preventing these materials from ending up in landfills.

If your games aren’t valuable enough for auction, you can still sell them for some extra cash. Online platforms like eBay and Swappa allow you to sell your old video games directly to buyers. Pawn shops might be another option, although you may get a better price by selling them yourself. There are also trade-in options at some game stores, but they typically provide less money than selling directly. Decluttr is another service specializing in buying used games and consoles, but consider shopping around to get the best offer.

Conclusion

The answer to “Are any old video games worth anything?” is a resounding yes! While you might not be sitting on a million-dollar treasure, it’s definitely worth doing some research before discarding your old game collection. A combination of rarity, condition, historical significance, and collector interest can all drive up prices. Whether you’re looking to clear out clutter or potentially make some money, the world of vintage video games offers a fascinating peek into the past and a surprisingly valuable marketplace. Don’t assume your old games are worthless. It’s worth the time to check their potential value.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to the value of old video games:

1. How old does a game have to be to be considered vintage?

While some consider 20 years to be the marker for retro, most consider a game to be vintage when it’s around 15 years old.

2. What is the most expensive video game ever sold?

A sealed copy of “Super Mario 64 – Wata 9.8 A++” sold for $1.56 million at auction in 2021, making it the most expensive video game ever sold.

3. What is the rarest video game ever made?

“Game Attack” for the Atari 2600 is considered the rarest, with only one cartridge ever produced.

4. Can I recycle old video games?

Yes, video games, including their jackets and discs, can be recycled. Look for electronics recycling programs near you.

5. Where can I sell my old video games?

You can sell old video games on platforms like eBay, Swappa, or at pawn shops. There are also specialized resellers and trade-in options.

6. What makes a video game collectible?

Factors such as rarity, condition, platform, game title, and the presence of original packaging and manuals make a video game collectible.

7. What does WATA grading mean?

WATA is a grading company that evaluates the condition of video games, providing a standardized score that affects the game’s value.

8. Are Nintendo games worth money?

Yes, Nintendo games, particularly those for the NES, are often valuable due to their rarity and historical significance.

9. Is it illegal to sell mature-rated games to minors?

No. The Supreme Court of the United States removed restrictions on selling or renting mature-rated video games to children under 18 years old. However, many stores still require proof of age for purchases of M rated games.

10. What is the best-selling video game of all time?

Minecraft is the best-selling video game of all time, with over 300 million copies sold worldwide.

11. What is the most expensive game item ever sold?

An in-game item in Entropia Universe, Planet Calypso, sold for a staggering $6 million.

12. How can I get the most money for my old video games?

Selling your games on Swappa often yields more money than trade-in programs or resellers, since you get cash payments. Selling yourself on eBay may also bring a higher profit than a trade-in.

13. Are sealed games worth more?

Yes, sealed games in their original packaging, especially if graded by WATA, are worth significantly more than loose cartridges.

14. Does GameStop check ID for mature games?

Yes, GameStop and similar retailers will require proof of age to purchase games with an ESRB rating of M (Mature).

15. Is it illegal for a minor to play mature-rated games?

It’s not illegal for a minor to play an 18+ rated game. However, in many countries, it is illegal to supply such games to someone underage.