Sell retro games and consoles: what are my old games worth?

Retro gaming is a thriving hobby. Consoles and games from the 80s, 90s and 2000s that once lived in every bedroom are now sought after by collectors and people who want to replay their childhood favourites. If you've found a box of old games in the loft, it's worth taking a proper look before it goes to a car boot sale.

What counts as "retro"?

Broadly, anything a couple of console generations old. That includes:

• Nintendo: NES, SNES, N64, GameCube, Wii, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, DS and 3DS.
• Sega: Master System, Mega Drive, Saturn, Dreamcast, Game Gear.
• Sony: PS1, PS2, PS3, PSP and PS Vita.
• Microsoft: original Xbox and Xbox 360.
• Others: Atari, Commodore, Amstrad, ZX Spectrum and Neo Geo.

What makes retro games valuable

• Completeness. Collectors talk about "CIB" — complete in box. A game with its box, manual and inserts is usually worth considerably more than a loose cartridge or disc.
• Condition. Box creases and tears, sun fading, label damage on cartridges, and disc scratches all matter.
• Region. UK games are PAL. Some collectors specifically want PAL versions; some games had smaller print runs in the UK.
• Rarity and demand. Popular franchises and titles with limited releases tend to be the most sought after.
• Sealed games. Factory-sealed games are especially collectable.

Consoles: what to check

1. Does it power on and display a picture? Test with the right cables. Older consoles may need a SCART or RF connection; adapters exist for modern TVs.
2. Do the controllers work? Test every button and the analogue sticks.
3. Does it read games? Test with a few different games.
4. Cosmetic condition: yellowing on grey and white plastics is common and affects value. Cracks, missing battery covers and broken flaps also matter.
5. Memory cards and accessories add value.

Checking cartridges and discs

• Cartridges: check the label and the contacts. Dirty contacts can often be cleaned gently with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton bud — make sure it's fully dry before inserting. Never blow into cartridges.
• Save batteries: some older cartridges use internal batteries to keep saves. If saves don't hold, the game still plays, but mention it.
• Discs: look for scratches, especially deep circular ones. Light marks are usually fine.
• Manuals and inserts: check they're present and in good condition.

Spotting reproductions and fakes

Reproduction cartridges are common, especially for popular SNES, N64, Game Boy and GBA games. Warning signs include:

• Labels that look slightly blurry, too glossy or the wrong colour.
• Missing or wrong manufacturer markings on the cartridge or circuit board.
• Unusually light cartridges.
• Screws that differ from the original type.

We can't buy reproductions, so if you're not sure, mention it.

Sorting a collection

1. Separate consoles, games, controllers and accessories.
2. Group games by console.
3. Note which games have boxes and manuals.
4. Test consoles and a sample of games.
5. Make a list — even a rough one helps when you describe the collection.

How to sell retro games

Selling individual games online gets you full control but takes a lot of time. Every game needs photos and descriptions, and collectors scrutinise condition closely. Car boot sales and retro game fairs are options for quick sales, but expect to be offered less.

With SendForCash, describe your games and consoles — what you have, whether they're boxed, and their condition — and get an instant cash offer. Accept, and we email a free postage label. We pay the same day we inspect.

Packing retro games

• Put boxed games in plastic bags or protectors to prevent scuffing.
• Pack cartridges so they can't rattle around.
• Wrap consoles in bubble wrap, and pack controllers separately.
• Use a sturdy box with padding all round. Cardboard game boxes crush easily.

FAQ

Are loose cartridges worth selling?

Yes, many are, especially popular titles. Boxed and complete games are usually worth more.

Do you buy consoles that are yellowed?

Yes, if they work properly. Yellowing affects the offer but isn't a fault.

Can I sell a console with only one controller?

Yes. Just describe what's included.

Do you buy PS3 and Xbox 360 games?

Yes, if together they meet our £15 minimum offer.

What about modded consoles?

Describe any modifications honestly. Consoles modified to play pirated games can't be accepted.