Before I began buying and selling video games, I was interested in vintage electronics. I collected old reel-to-reel players, as well as receivers and speakers from the late 1970s and early 1980s.
One day, someone offered me a ColecoVision system with a stack of games and a really cool dust cover. I didn't know a lot about it, but I was interested. I remember having to track down parts just to hook it up and test the darn thing.
After finally getting everything I needed, I listed the ColecoVision with about 15 games in a 7-day eBay auction. To my amazement, the bundle sold for around $250.
That was the moment I realized—this could be more than just a hobby. I had stumbled into something I could actually make money doing.
The Table of Contents
Why Retro Game Consoles Are Worth Money
Retro gaming has exploded in popularity. Adults who grew up in the 80s and 90s want to revisit their childhoods. Many of them are ready to spend extra money to own original gaming consoles
and equipment.
The NES, Sega Genesis, and even rare systems like the Neo Geo and Atari Jaguar are now collector's items.
Factors That Affect Video Game Console Value
Here’s what buyers look for when evaluating the price of a used console:
- Condition: Clean, untarnished, and working units always command higher prices. See our full quality requirements here.
- Completeness: Original box, manuals, and accessories can significantly boost value.
- Functionality: Working systems with tested AV output and controller ports are more desirable.
- Rarity: Less common systems like the TurboGrafx-16, Neo Geo AES, or Panasonic 3DO can sell for hundreds.
What to Know About Testing and Handling Retro Consoles
It’s 2025, and many of these classic systems are now 25–40 years old. That means extra care is essential. Before selling a console, be sure to thoroughly test and inspect it.
In our shop, we require each console to stay on for at least 30 minutes. This helps us check for issues, as some consoles can overheat or shut down suddenly during long play sessions.
Here are a few more tips:
- Disc Drives: Test that the drive reads and loads games consistently—especially on systems like the PS1, PS2, and Dreamcast.
- Lens Cleaning: Use a DVD lens cleaner to help older systems like the PS2 function properly.
- Controller Ports: Give ports a quick clean using rubbing alcohol and a Q-tip or toothbrush. This is especially helpful for systems like the Nintendo 64 and GameCube.
- Packaging Matters: Most retro consoles are made of hard plastic. You need to properly packaging them during transit, without adequate bubble wrap and padding, they can crack or shatter in transit. Every year, we receive hundreds of broken consoles due to poor packaging.
Take the extra steps—it protects your investment and leads to happier buyers.
Consoles with Known Issues
Some retro systems have common hardware failures that make them difficult or unreliable to resell. We've grouped them by buy status below.
✅ Consoles We Still Buy (Even with Issues)
| Console | Common Issue(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Atari Jaguar | Power-on/off issues | |
| Atari Jaguar CD | Disc failure in ~95% of units | Case-by-case |
| TurboGrafx CD | Chronic disc drive failure | Case-by-case |
| Atari Lynx | LCD screen, often very wonkey | Case-by-case |
| TurboExpress | Audio/display capacitor issues | Even if broken – Console5 Cap Kit |
| TurboGrafx-16 | RF box fails, but works with AV cables | |
| TurboDuo | Disc drive/audio failure | Even if broken |
- Understanding these hardware flaws helps set realistic expectations when it comes to console value—and what buyers like us are willing to accept.
❌ Consoles We No Longer Purchase
| Console | Common Issue(s) | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Atari 5200 | Unreliable, flawed controller design | Design flaw |
| Original Game Boy | Dead pixels, LCD screen failures | Screen failure |
| Sega Game Gear | Faulty capacitors, near-universal failure | Recapping required – Console5 Repair Guide |
| Atari 7800 | RF box issues, static/faded picture | Poor video output |
| ColecoVision | Cartridge reader/pin connector failure | Hardware failure |
→ Wonky displays, disc failures, and dead capacitors are common pitfalls in the world of retro consoles. Always test your system thoroughly before shipping it.
Where to Sell Your Old Consoles
- eBay - Great for rare or high-demand systems, especially if they are complete-in-box. Use accurate keywords in your title like "Vintage NES Console CIB" or "Sega Saturn System - Tested."
- Facebook Marketplace / Craigslist - Best for local, no-fee transactions. Be prepared to meet in public places and negotiate.
- The Old School Game Vault - A reliable option for quick, competitive cash offers—especially for retro systems. No auctions or listing hassle.
Tips for Getting the Best Price
- Clean the Console: Use a soft cloth to wipe surfaces and remove dust or grime. Here’s our full guide on cleaning video games safely.
- Test It: Confirm that the console powers on and works with at least one game.
- Highlight Extras: Point out if your console includes rare accessories or original packaging.
- Photograph from All Angles: Use bright lighting and take clear, high-resolution images.
Top-Selling Retro Consoles by Value
| Console | Avg. Used Price | CIB (Complete) Price |
|---|---|---|
| NES | $50–$100 | $200+ |
| SNES | $60–$120 | $250+ |
| Sega Genesis | $40–$90 | $150+ |
| Atari 2600 | $30–$80 | $100+ |
| Neo Geo AES | $300–$800 | $1,000+ |
| Nintendo Switch | $150–$225 | $250+ |
Why Nostalgia Sells
The emotional pull of classic consoles—like the NES or SNES—keeps them in demand. These systems represent a simpler time for many gamers and remain popular thanks to iconic franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Sonic.
Even newer systems like the Nintendo Switch are driven by nostalgia, blending modern play with classic appeal.
Bonus Tools & Resources
- Use eBay’s Sold Listings to estimate real-time market value.
- Try GoofBid to discover trending keywords and top search terms.
- Use our Instant Quote Tool at The Old School Game Vault to find your console’s current trade-in value.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking to sell your video game system, presentation and research are everything. Clean it, test it, photograph it well—and you'll be in the best position to get paid what it’s really worth.
👉 Get a quote now from The Old School Game Vault
Turn your shelf space into cash today!
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I sell retro video game consoles?
- You can sell your retro video game consoles online through sites like eBay or use a specialized service like The Old School Game Vault, which offers cash quotes and easy shipping.
What affects the value of old game consoles?
- Console value is affected by condition, completeness, functionality, and rarity.
- Systems with original packaging and working parts fetch the highest prices.
Do you buy broken video game systems?
- Yes, we buy some broken consoles, like the TurboDuo and TurboExpress.
- However, we do not purchase heavily damaged or non-repairable units like the Sega Game Gear.
What consoles are too damaged or outdated to sell?
- We no longer accept consoles like the Atari 7800, ColecoVision, Sega Game Gear, or Atari 5200 due to widespread hardware issues and poor reliability.
Why don’t you buy Sega Game Gear or Atari 7800?
- The Sega Game Gear often suffers from capacitor failure, and the Atari 7800 has frequent RF box issues.
