Table of Contents

Do Old Video Games Have Any Value? Unveiling the Hidden Treasures in Your Attic

Yes, old video games absolutely have value! That value can range from a few dollars for common titles to hundreds of thousands, even millions, for rare, sealed, or graded copies. The vintage video game market is booming, fueled by nostalgia, collectibility, and a growing appreciation for the historical significance of these interactive artifacts. Whether you’re a lifelong gamer, a curious collector, or simply decluttering your home, understanding the potential worth of your old video games is crucial.

Understanding the Value Proposition

The value of a vintage video game is determined by several factors, including:

Rarity: The rarer the game, the higher the value. Limited production runs, store exclusives, and competition prize games all contribute to rarity.
Condition: Games in pristine condition, particularly sealed copies, command a significant premium. Even opened games in excellent condition are more valuable than those with damaged boxes, manuals, or cartridges.
Grading: Professional grading services like WATA Games and VGA assess the condition of games and assign a numerical grade, which significantly impacts their market value.
Demand: Popular games, especially those from iconic franchises like Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Pokémon, tend to be more sought after by collectors.
Completeness: A game that includes its original box, manual, and any inserts is generally worth more than a loose cartridge alone.
Nostalgia: The appeal of revisiting childhood memories plays a huge part in the value. Games that were popular and well-remembered often hold a greater sentimental and, thus, monetary value.

Where to Start: Research and Identification

Before you sell or donate your old video games, take the time to research their potential value. Here are some resources to help you get started:

Online Auction Sites: Websites like eBay provide a wealth of data on past sales of vintage video games. Search for completed auctions of similar titles and conditions to get an idea of market prices.
Price Guides: Several websites and publications offer price guides for collectible video games. While these guides may not always be perfectly accurate, they can provide a general range of values.
Grading Service Websites: WATA Games and VGA websites provide information about game grading, as well as details about the criteria they use to assess the condition of games.
Forums and Communities: Online forums and communities dedicated to vintage video game collecting can be valuable resources for identifying rare titles and estimating values.

Selling Your Old Video Games

Once you have a good understanding of the value of your old video games, you can explore different selling options:

Online Auctions: eBay is a popular platform for selling vintage video games, offering a large audience of potential buyers.
Local Game Stores: Some local game stores specialize in buying and selling retro games. However, they may offer lower prices than other options.
Pawn Shops: While pawn shops may buy old video games, they typically offer the lowest prices.
Consignment: Consider consigning your games with a reputable dealer who specializes in vintage video games. They will handle the sale for a commission.
Online Marketplaces: Platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist are useful for local sales of old video games.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about the value of old video games:

How do I know if my video game is rare?

Check for limited production runs, store exclusives, competition prizes, and variants (e.g., different cartridge colors or label designs). Search online for the game’s title along with terms like “rare,” “collectible,” or “variant.”

What makes a sealed video game so valuable?

A sealed video game is considered to be in mint condition, as it has never been opened or played. This is highly desirable to collectors, who want to own a pristine example of a particular game.

What is WATA grading, and why is it important?

WATA Games is a professional grading service that assesses the condition of video games and assigns a numerical grade. A high WATA grade can significantly increase the value of a game.

What are some of the most valuable video games?

Some of the most valuable vintage video games include Super Mario 64 (sealed), The Legend of Zelda (sealed), Air Raid (Atari 2600), and Stadium Events (NES).

Is it worth getting my video games graded?

If you believe that your games are in excellent condition and are potentially valuable, getting them graded may be worth the investment. However, consider the cost of grading and the potential increase in value.

Where can I find accurate pricing information for my old video games?

Check online auction sites (eBay), price guides, and forums dedicated to video game collecting.

Should I clean my video games before selling them?

Yes, cleaning your video games can improve their appearance and increase their value. Use a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution to gently clean the cartridges and boxes.

What is the difference between “retro” and “vintage” video games?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but “retro” typically refers to games from the 1980s and 1990s, while “vintage” can encompass older games from the 1970s as well. The definition is hard to pin down, but some would say any game that is 15 years old is considered retro.

Can I sell my old video games to GameStop?

Yes, GameStop accepts trade-ins of old video games. However, they may offer lower prices than other options.

Is it legal to sell old video games?

Yes, it is generally legal to sell old video games as long as they do not contain illegal content. There are a handful that retailers refuse to sell, and some countries that possession of certain games is a criminal offense, but so long as the content doesn’t contain literal child pornography, it’s legal to own and sell in the United States.

What should I do with video games that aren’t worth much?

Consider donating them to local charities, such as children’s hospitals, women’s shelters, or community centers. Or offer them to a friend or family member.

What Atari games are worth money?

Some of the most valuable Atari games include Air Raid, Red Sea Crossing, Out of Control and Eli’s Ladder.

Why are people so interested in collecting old video games?

Nostalgia, collectibility, and appreciation for the historical significance of these interactive artifacts. Playing older games takes gamers back to a simpler time.

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

Some people say 20 years is what makes a video game retro, but the majority seem to say 15 years. For the sake of this article let’s consider 15 years as the classification of retro.

What does “NFR” mean on a video game?

“NFR” stands for “Not For Resale.” These games were typically given to reviewers or retailers for promotional purposes and were not intended to be sold.

The Games Learning Society and the Educational Value of Gaming

Beyond their monetary value, old video games hold significant educational and cultural value. The Games Learning Society believes in harnessing the power of games for learning and development. You can explore their research and initiatives at Games Learning Society. or through their URL: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. Understanding the history of gaming and its evolution helps us appreciate the artistry, innovation, and cultural impact of these interactive experiences.

In conclusion, old video games can be valuable treasures waiting to be discovered. With careful research, proper assessment, and informed selling strategies, you can unlock the potential worth of your collection and contribute to the vibrant vintage video game market.

Do old video games have any value?