Video games are compact, easy to post and popular with collectors, which makes them a good fit for resellers. Value depends on the platform, the title, and above all whether the game is complete.
Complete in box
Collectors talk about "CIB": complete in box, with the game, the original case or box, and the manual and inserts. A complete copy can be worth several times a loose cartridge or disc. Always open the case to check the right game is inside.
Platforms to watch
- Retro Nintendo: older cartridge games and handheld games, especially boxed.
- Older PlayStation and Sega: less common titles and complete copies.
- Limited physical releases: some newer games were only printed in small runs by specialist publishers.
Yearly sports titles and very common bestsellers usually sell for little.
Regions
UK games are PAL. Some older consoles can't play games from other regions, so state the region clearly in your listing and check it before you buy imports.
Condition checks
- Discs: scratches, cracks, and whether the case hub is broken.
- Cartridges: label damage, corrosion on the contacts, and whether it's genuine (reproduction cartridges are common).
- Boxes and manuals: tears, writing and missing pages.
Testing and cleaning
If you can, test games before you list them, or say clearly that they're untested. Clean discs with a soft cloth from the centre outwards, and cartridge contacts gently with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton bud. Remove price stickers carefully with a little heat or sticker remover, and never use anything that could damage printed labels or box art.
Consoles and accessories
Consoles sell well if tested and complete with leads and a controller. Official controllers sell better than third-party ones. Clean everything before you photograph it.
Pricing
Compare like with like: loose, boxed, or complete in box. Check current listings and eBay's Sold items filter, and include the platform and region in your title.