Video game collecting is a hobby that involves acquiring and preserving video games, consoles, and related items. It can be a fun and rewarding way to relive your favorite memories from childhood or discover new games that you may have missed. However, it can also be a complex and challenging endeavor, especially for beginners. In this guide, we will cover the basics of video game collecting, including what to collect, where to find items, and how to properly care for your collection.
First and foremost, it's important to decide what you want to collect. There are many different types of video games and consoles, each with their own unique history and value. Some popular options include classic consoles such as the Atari 2600 or NES, retro games for these consoles, rare and limited edition games and consoles, and even newer consoles and games. Once you have a general idea of what you want to collect, you can start to focus on specific items and do research on their value and rarity.
Next, you'll want to find a reliable source for your collection. There are many places to find video games and consoles, including online retailers, local game stores, and even garage sales and thrift stores. Online retailers such as Amazon or Ebay can be great for finding a wide variety of games and consoles, but it's important to be cautious when buying from individual sellers. Local game stores, on the other hand, can be a great place to find rare and hard-to-find items, but they may also be more expensive. Garage sales and thrift stores can be a great way to find hidden gems, but it requires a bit of patience and luck.
Once you have acquired your items, it's important to properly care for them. This includes storing them in a safe and dry place, away from any sources of heat or moisture. Also, it's important to keep your games and consoles clean and free of dust. Consider using a microfiber cloth to gently wipe down your items, and consider using plastic protectors for your games to keep them in good condition.
In addition to the physical aspect of video game collecting, it's also important to keep track of your collection. Keeping a detailed inventory of your items can help you stay organized and keep track of what you have and what you still need. This can also be helpful when it comes to selling or trading items in the future.
Finally, it's important to remember that video game collecting is a personal hobby and there is no right or wrong way to do it. Some collectors focus on acquiring every game for a particular console, while others focus on acquiring only rare or limited edition items. Some focus on preserving the original packaging, while others focus on the games themselves. Whatever your focus, the most important thing is to enjoy the process and have fun with it.
We are avid collectors our self and are taking steps to assist game collectors preserve their libraries. If you have any questions, you can always contact us.
In conclusion, video game collecting can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it can also be a complex and challenging endeavor. By deciding what to collect, finding a reliable source, properly caring for your items, keeping track of your collection and having fun with it, you'll be well on your way to building a collection you can be proud of. Remember, collecting is all about personal preference, there is no right or wrong way, find what you enjoy and stick with it. Happy collecting!