Collecting retro games: Condition, authenticity and storage

In short: When collecting, completeness, condition and authenticity count; fakes, weakening batteries and mould are the most frequent problems, correct storage and checking protect value.

In more detail: Retro games are toys, technology history and an investment at once. Prices fluctuate strongly; buy what you like and do not count on sure profit.

In Depth

Condition and completeness

Common terms: loose (module/disc only), CIB (complete in box: case, manual, module), sealed/original packaging, mint. Check case (cracks, yellowing), manual/inserts, contacts (corroded?), disc (scratches, disc rot), labels (stains, sun), serial number on the back. Regions: PAL/NTSC, region locks, 60/50 Hz. Ask the seller for photos.

Checking authenticity

Fakes exist especially for Game Boy/GBA, NES/SNES, Pokémon, expensive titles and accessories. Hints: weight, case plastic, screw type, label print/font errors, circuit board (chips, date codes, Nintendo logo), serial numbers, save games get lost, tests in the device (sound glitches). Orientation: forums, databases (for example for serial numbers/boards), dealers with warranty. Prices too good = suspicious.

Care and storage

• Dry, cool, dark (UV yellows plastic); humidity 40 to 55 %.
• Store upright, do not stack; plastic sleeves for manuals/boxes.
• Clean contacts carefully with isopropanol (≥ 90 %) and cotton swabs.
• Hold discs by the edge, in cases.
• Replace save batteries (CR2032 in modules with saves such as Zelda/Pokémon), back up the save first (flash cartridges/tools).
• Consoles: electrolytic capacitors age (recapping), check power supplies, clean fans.
• Mould: store separately, clean (expert advice).

Buying, selling, law

Buy from trustworthy sources (flea market with testing, specialised dealers, fairs), check returns. Compare prices (sold items on eBay, price databases). Insurance/inventory: photos and a list. Taxes: with frequent buying and selling commercial activity may exist (see the article). Emulation/ROMs are legally delicate (see article). Playing original hardware on CRTs/RGB converters or with upscalers (RetroTINK, OSSC) gives a good picture. Care keeps collections playable.

See also: Retro computers and consoles, Emulators and retro games, Selling privately or commercially, Game consoles