Retro gaming has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, as gamers young and old have rediscovered the joys of classic games from the 80s and 90s. Whether it’s the simple yet addictive gameplay, the nostalgia factor, or the desire to experience gaming history, retro games have a special appeal that continues to captivate gamers to this day.
However, finding retro games to buy can be a challenge, particularly if you’re looking for rare or hard-to-find titles. With so many different retailers, marketplaces, and online stores to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start your search.
That’s why we’ve created this blog post: to provide a comprehensive guide to where you can buy retro games. We’ll explore some of the most popular online marketplaces, specialty retailers, local game stores, and retro gaming conventions and events, highlighting the pros and cons of each option and providing tips for finding the best deals and shopping safely.
So whether you’re a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast or just getting started, read on to discover the best places on where to buy retro games and add some classic titles to your collection!
Online Marketplaces
If you’re looking to buy retro games online, there are several popular marketplaces to consider. Here are a few of the most well-known:
eBay – eBay is perhaps the largest online marketplace for retro games. With millions of listings, it’s a great place to find rare or hard-to-find titles. However, because eBay is an auction site, prices can sometimes be higher than other marketplaces, and it’s important to check the seller’s feedback and reputation before making a purchase.
Amazon – Amazon is another popular online marketplace for retro games, offering both new and used titles. One benefit of buying from Amazon is the ease of use and quick shipping, but prices can be higher than other marketplaces, and the selection may be more limited.
Etsy – While Etsy is perhaps best known for handmade crafts and vintage items, it’s also a great place to find retro games. Sellers on Etsy often specialize in unique or handmade items, so you may be able to find rare titles that aren’t available elsewhere. However, prices can be higher than other marketplaces, and it’s important to check the seller’s reviews and policies before making a purchase.
When buying from online marketplaces, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, be wary of sellers who are offering prices that seem too good to be true, as they may be selling counterfeit or bootlegged games. Second, always check the seller’s feedback and ratings before making a purchase, and be sure to read the item description carefully to ensure that you’re getting exactly what you’re looking for.
Finally, when looking for the best deals on retro games, it’s important to be patient and persistent. Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, and consider setting up alerts or notifications for the specific games or consoles you’re interested in. With a little effort and some savvy shopping, you can find great deals on retro games and build an impressive collection!
Specialty Retailers
In addition to online marketplaces, there are several specialty retailers that focus specifically on retro gaming. These stores can offer a unique shopping experience and often have knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect game. Here are a few to consider:
GameStop – While GameStop is perhaps best known for its focus on new games and consoles, many locations also carry a selection of retro games and consoles. One benefit of shopping at GameStop is the ability to see and handle the games in person before buying. However, prices can be higher than other options, and the selection may be more limited.
Game Dude – Game Dude is a specialty retailer based in California that focuses exclusively on retro gaming. With a wide selection of games and consoles, as well as a knowledgeable staff, it’s a great place to find rare or hard-to-find titles. However, because it’s a physical store, you’ll need to visit in person or order online, and prices may be higher than other options.
Local game stores – Many cities and towns have local game stores that specialize in retro gaming. These stores can offer a personalized shopping experience and may have a wider selection of games and consoles than larger retailers. However, prices may be higher than other options, and the selection may be more limited.
When shopping at specialty retailers, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, be prepared to pay a premium for the personalized shopping experience and selection. Second, check the store’s reputation and reviews before making a purchase, and be sure to ask the staff if you have any questions about a particular game or console.
Finally, when looking for the best deals on retro games, don’t be afraid to haggle or negotiate with the retailer. Many specialty stores are willing to work with customers to find a fair price, particularly if you’re buying multiple items or have a relationship with the store. With a little effort and some savvy shopping, you can find great deals on retro games at specialty retailers and build an impressive collection!
Local Game Stores
While online marketplaces and specialty retailers can be great places to find retro games, there’s something to be said for shopping at a local game store. Here are a few benefits to consider:
Personalized service – When you shop at a local game store, you’re likely to receive personalized service from the owner or staff. They may be able to recommend games based on your interests or help you track down hard-to-find titles.
Unique selection – Local game stores often have a unique selection of retro games and consoles that you won’t find elsewhere. This can be a great way to discover new titles and build your collection.
Supporting small businesses – When you shop at a local game store, you’re supporting a small business in your community. This can help to keep your local economy strong and vibrant.
To find local game stores in your area, try doing a Google search or checking online directories like Yelp or Yellow Pages. You can also ask other gamers or check with local gaming groups or clubs to see if they have any recommendations.
Finally, one benefit of building a relationship with a local game store owner is that they may be willing to give you discounts or special deals, particularly if you’re a regular customer. They may also be able to order specific games or consoles for you that they don’t normally carry in the store. By supporting your local game store and building a relationship with the owner, you can ensure that you always have access to the best retro gaming options.
Retro Gaming Conventions and Events
If you’re a serious retro gaming enthusiast, you may want to consider attending retro gaming conventions and events as a source for buying games. These events bring together retro gaming fans from all over the world, and often have a huge selection of games and consoles for sale. Here are a few benefits to consider:
Huge selection – Retro gaming conventions and events often have a huge selection of games and consoles for sale, including rare and hard-to-find titles. This can be a great opportunity to add to your collection or find that one game you’ve been searching for.
Meeting other retro gaming enthusiasts – Attending conventions and events can be a great way to meet other retro gaming enthusiasts and share your love of gaming. You may be able to make new friends, swap tips and tricks, and even play some games together.
Unique shopping experience – Shopping for retro games at a convention or event can be a unique and exciting experience. You never know what you might find, and you may be able to negotiate with sellers to get the best deal possible.
To attend retro gaming conventions and events, try doing a Google search or checking online directories like Eventbrite or Meetup. You can also check with local gaming groups or clubs to see if they have any recommendations.
When attending conventions and events, be sure to bring cash and a list of the games you’re looking for. It can be easy to get caught up in the excitement and overspend, so having a plan in place can help you stay on track. You may also want to arrive early to get the best selection of games and consoles, and be prepared to negotiate with sellers to get the best deal.
Overall, attending retro gaming conventions and events can be a fun and exciting way to add to your collection and meet other retro gaming enthusiasts. If you’re a serious collector or just looking to find some new games, it’s definitely worth considering!
The Bottom Line
Today, we’ve explored several options for buying retro games, including online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon, specialty retailers like GameStop and Game Dude, local game stores, and retro gaming conventions and events. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, and it’s gonna be up to you to decide which one is the best fit for your needs and preferences.
Some key takeaways from this blog post include:
- Online marketplaces can be a great option for finding a wide selection of games, but be sure to shop carefully and watch out for scams.
- Specialty retailers offer a more focused selection of games and may be a good option if you’re looking for specific titles or accessories.
- Local game stores offer a unique shopping experience and the opportunity to build relationships with store owners and other enthusiasts.
- Retro gaming conventions and events offer a huge selection of games and consoles, as well as the chance to meet other retro gaming enthusiasts and share your passion.
We hope that this blog post has been helpful in your quest to find the best places to buy retro games. If you have any additional tips or experiences to share, please feel free to leave a comment below. And if you’re looking for more resources on retro gaming, here are a few websites and forums to check out:
Thanks for reading and until next time, have fun and happy gaming!