Selling used video games can be a fantastic way to earn extra cash and declutter your collection. But if you want to maximize your payout, you’ll need more than just a shoebox of old cartridges—you need a solid game plan.
This Expert Guide will walk you through everything: where to sell, how to prep your games, what pitfalls to avoid, and why some titles are worth more than others. Let’s level up your selling strategy!
The Table of Contents
Why Game Value Matters
Not all used video games are created equal. Mass-produced titles like Call of Duty or Super Mario Bros may not fetch top dollar because of their abundance.
But niche, rare, and mint-condition retro games? That’s where the money is.
Want a real-time idea of what your collection is worth? Check out our used video game value guide to see what titles are hot and what could be hiding treasure in your closet.
Get Your Games Ready to Sell
Before you list or send in your games, make sure they’re clean, authentic, and accurately described.
Clean & Presentable
A little cleaning can boost your game’s value significantly. Remove sticker residue, dust cartridges, and gently wipe disc surfaces if needed. We show you how here.
Ensure Authenticity
Counterfeit games are everywhere. Buyers want the real deal, especially for retro titles. Use our counterfeit game spotting guides to double-check:
- Official Labels & Logos
- Unique Cartridge Shells & PCB Markings
- Matching Serial Numbers
Where to Sell Video Games Online & Locally?
Choosing the right platform makes all the difference. Here’s a breakdown:
| Platform | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| eBay | Huge reach | Fees, returns, buyer scams |
| Amazon | Trusted marketplace | High competition, strict policies |
| Facebook Marketplace | No fees | Time-consuming, meetups required |
| The Old School Game Vault | Instant quotes, no listings, fast payment | You ship items to us |
| Local Game Stores | Quick & easy | Lower offers than online |
| Pawn Shops | Immediate cash | Usually lowball offers |
| Flea Markets | Direct-to-collector sales | Setup and time investment |
🎯 Want the fastest route to cash? Get your instant quote here and skip the hassle.
How to Sell Like a Pro
Listings That Sell:
- Be Honest: Mention wear, missing manuals, or label damage.
- Photos Sell Games: Use natural light and multiple angles.
- Highlight Extras: Manuals, posters, or rare variants? Mention them!
Shipping Tips:
- Bubble wrap is your best friend.
- Use rigid boxes, not padded envelopes.
- Disc games and consoles can crack—ship them snug and secure.
Payment Smarts:
- Use PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo for online payments.
- For in-person sales, stick to cash or Zelle to avoid scams.
Real Seller Story: Why I Chose The Old School Game Vault
I was drowning in options. Facebook, eBay, even pawn shops. Everything felt like a hassle—until I found The Old School Game Vault.
It was refreshingly easy. I searched my games, got instant quotes, and shipped them out. No listings. No haggling. One game in particular—Silent Hill 3 for PS2—earned me $114, way more than I expected!
Their honesty, transparency, and fair pricing made them my go-to.
Local Selling Options (For Face-to-Face Fans)
If you're more into handshakes than shipping labels, try these:
- Video Game Stores: Offer trade-in credit or cash.
- Pawn Shops: Instant cash, but negotiate hard.
- Flea Markets: Great for large collections. Just be ready to man your booth.
More tips? Visit our marketplace guide for a breakdown.
Trusted Mentions & Selling Guides
The Old School Game Vault has been featured or cited in respected personal finance and resale publications:
- Well Kept Wallet – Best Places to Sell Video Games
- A Nation of Moms – How to Effectively Sell Your Old Video Games
- Making Sense of Cents – Where to Sell Used Games Online
- TechBoltify – Selling Video Games for Cash: Platform Comparison
These editorial mentions help reinforce our reputation as a trusted platform to sell your used games for real value.
Final Score: Selling Games Made Easy
Whether you're cashing out a collection or flipping finds, the key is preparation and choosing the right platform. We’ve been helping gamers for 18+ years and we’re just getting started.
Not sure which method is right for you? Explore your options in our full video game selling hub, it breaks down local vs online, emotional value, and real seller experiences.
Want cash for your used games? Get your free quote now and experience the easiest way to sell retro. a collection or flipping finds, the key is preparation and choosing the right platform. We’ve been helping gamers for 18+ years, and we’re just getting started.
Want cash for your used games? Start your trade-in here and experience the easiest way to sell retro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where’s the best place to sell vintage video games?
- Try specialized sites like The Old School Game Vault for fast quotes and easy selling. eBay, Amazon, and Facebook Marketplace are also options but come with more effort.
Who buys old video games online?
- Collectors, resellers, and enthusiasts.
- Platforms like ours focus on retro, while pawn shops and game stores offer local options.
What affects used video game value?
- Condition, completeness, demand, and rarity.
- Original boxes, manuals, and clean cartridges matter.
How much can I sell my video games for?
- Prices vary by title, platform, and condition. Visit our 2025 Value Guide to see current resale trends and pricing examples.
Where can I sell video games for cash online?
- Online platforms like The Old School Game Vault offer fast, secure payment options with no listing hassle.
- You can also try sites like eBay, though they require more effort and fees.
How do I sell a video game collection?
- Group your games by platform, clean and inspect each item, and use bulk-selling tools like our trade-in cart to streamline the process.
- Collections in good condition often earn premium offers.
