For many gamers, collecting video games is a passion that goes beyond just playing the latest releases. It's about preserving a piece of gaming history, showcasing a curated selection of favorite titles, and even hunting down rare gems to complete a collection. On Reddit, a vibrant community of video game collectors shares tips, showcases their collections, and collaborates on finding the most elusive games. Here are seven tips for video game collectors on Reddit, distilled from the collective wisdom of this dedicated community.
Know Your Focus
When it comes to collecting video games, focus is key. With the vast number of games released over the years, trying to collect everything can be overwhelming and costly. Define what you want to focus on, whether it's collecting games from a specific console, genre, or era. This will help guide your hunting and ensure your collection has a cohesive theme.
Defining Your Collection Theme
- Console-specific: Focus on collecting games from a specific console, like the NES or PlayStation.
- Genre-based: Collect games from a particular genre, such as RPGs or first-person shooters.
- Era-based: Collect games from a specific time period, like the 8-bit era or the early 3D gaming days.
Organize Your Collection
Proper organization is crucial for any serious collector. This involves not just keeping your games in a tidy manner but also tracking what you have and what you're missing. Invest in good storage solutions and consider using a database or spreadsheet to catalog your collection.
Tips for Organizing:
- Use protective storage: Invest in game cases and storage solutions that protect your games from dust and damage.
- Catalog your collection: Use a database or spreadsheet to keep track of your games, including condition, rarity, and purchase price.
- Keep it tidy: Regularly dust and clean your games and consoles to maintain their condition.
Network and Trade
The video game collecting community on Reddit is vibrant and active, offering many opportunities to network with fellow collectors, trade games, and learn about new finds. Join relevant subreddits and engage with the community to expand your collection and knowledge.
Engaging with the Community:
- Join subreddits: Look for subreddits dedicated to video game collecting, such as r/GameCollecting.
- Participate in discussions: Share your finds, ask for advice, and learn from others in the community.
- Trade with care: Be cautious when trading with others, ensuring you're dealing with trustworthy individuals and inspecting the condition of traded games carefully.
Be Patient and Persistent
Finding rare games can take time, and it's essential to be patient and persistent. Keep an eye on online marketplaces, garage sales, and thrift stores, and don't be discouraged by setbacks or failed hunts.
Tips for the Hunt:
- Regularly check online marketplaces: Keep an eye on eBay, Amazon, and specialized forums for rare game listings.
- Explore physical locations: Visit garage sales, thrift stores, and used game shops to find hidden gems.
- Stay informed: Follow gaming news and collector communities to learn about rare games and where to find them.
Authenticate and Grade Your Games
Authentication and grading are critical for serious collectors, especially when dealing with rare or valuable games. Learn about the authentication process and consider getting your games professionally graded to increase their value.
Understanding Authentication and Grading:
- Learn about authentication: Understand what makes a game authentic and how to spot counterfeits.
- Get professional grading: Companies like Wata Games and VGA can professionally grade your games, increasing their value and authenticity.
Stay Up to Date with Market Trends
Market trends in video game collecting can shift rapidly, with certain games or consoles becoming more valuable over time. Stay informed about market trends to make savvy purchases and know when to sell.
Following Market Trends:
- Monitor collector forums and subreddits: Keep an eye on discussions about game values and market trends.
- Watch for rarity: Understand what makes a game rare and how its scarcity affects its value.
- Be prepared to adapt: Market trends can shift quickly, so be prepared to adjust your collecting strategy as needed.
Enjoy the Journey
Lastly, remember to enjoy the journey of collecting. It's not just about the end goal of completing a collection, but also about the hunt, the community, and the joy of discovering new games.
Embracing the Hobby:
- Set realistic goals: Don't get discouraged by unrealistic expectations. Enjoy the process of collecting.
- Share your passion: Join communities, attend events, and share your collection with others to spread the joy of collecting.
- Keep learning: Continuously learn about games, consoles, and the history of gaming to deepen your appreciation for your collection.
By embracing these tips, video game collectors on Reddit and beyond can enhance their hobby, expand their knowledge, and enjoy the rewarding journey of building a unique and cherished collection.
What is the most valuable video game in my collection?
+The value of a video game can depend on several factors, including its rarity, condition, and demand. Consider getting your game professionally graded and research its market value to determine its worth.
How do I find rare video games?
+Rare video games can be found through a combination of online research, attending gaming events, and visiting used game stores and garage sales. Networking with other collectors can also lead to tips on where to find hard-to-find titles.
Why should I join video game collecting communities?
+Joining video game collecting communities, such as subreddits dedicated to game collecting, can provide valuable resources, advice, and connections with other collectors. These communities can enhance your collecting experience and help you build a better collection.