Video Game News: By Gamers Bay & The Old School Game Vault (+playlist)

Top Tips for Selling and Trading Used Video Games

Although you may want to keep a few favorites around for replays, most of your used video games will never be played again. When you want to buy new games, earn extra cash, or just free up some space in your room, it's time to go through your old games and see what you can trade or sell. The strategies below can help you trade in and sell games more effectively.

1.  Timing Is Everything

There are good and bad times to sell used games on the market. The worst time is close to the release of a new console, when everyone is trying to unload their old games; the competition drives values down. The best time to unload a game is just after a sequel appears. People enjoying a sequel may want to pick up the earlier games in the series. Another good time is right before the holidays, when people may be getting games as gifts.

2. Play and Sell Faster

If you buy a game the day it is released, play through it quickly, and sell or trade it within a few days, you will be able to sell or trade it at a premium. If you are not actually enjoying a game after an hour or so of play, unload it quickly to recoup your investment rather than just tossing it on a pile of games you might eventually get back to sometime.

3. Don't Open Games You Don't Want

If you get a game you do not really want as a gift or part of a discount bundle, do not open the package. You will be able to sell or trade an unopened game at a high premium compared to one that has been opened. 

4. Invest in Special Editions

When you have a choice, invest in special or collector's editions of games. These sell at a premium compared with standard editions. If you go to cons, autographs or other game related memorabilia can enhance the value of your games. 

5. Sell Entire Series

Make attractive packages by offering game series for sale or trade both as individual games and as a series package. A complete series of a popular game will be especially attractive. 

6. Appearance Matters

The better the exterior appearance of the game, the more attractive it will be to buyers or traders. When you first open a game, place all the packaging in clear plastic freezer bag, so it won't get scuffed, dirty, or misplaced. 

7. Join Gamer Communities

The more gamer communities you join, the more markets you have for selling or trading games. Becoming an active or respected community member by helping people on game forums, developing new strategies, writing guides, or setting records enhances your visibility, and helps you sell and trade games.

8. Become Trusted Vendor

Many sites where you can sell or trade games rank vendors. Buyers take ranking seriously. Make sure that you respond to requests promptly, ship as and when promised, and generally are truthful, reliable, and willing to resolve disputes amicably.