Places to Find Good Deals on Video Games and Build Your Collection

If you’re looking to amass an arsenal of video games and build your collection, the costs can add up quickly if you shop at normal video game stores. This is especially true if you’re looking for some of the newer releases or more obscure games. If you’re on a budget, it’s important to understand some tips and tricks that can help you find the games you’re looking for without spending a fortune. In fact, it’s often possible to find diamonds in the rough if you simply know where to look. With this in mind, let’s discuss some places where great video games can be found for a fraction of the cost that you would pay in normal retail stores.

Flea Markets

One of the best places to find great video games on the cheap is flea markets. These places are often goldmines for finding all types of games that range from vintage to relatively new. Many times you can even come across Atari and original Nintendo games that are over 20 years old, as well as ones for newer systems like Nintendo Wii, Xbox 360 and Playstation 3. While you probably won’t find the same selection of up to date games as you would in a video game store, you never know what you’re going to come across and it’s kind of like going on a treasure hunt. The best part is that you can usually haggle with the sellers and get great deals at a dirt cheap price. Just make sure to check the box to make sure the games are inside and that they are in decent condition before buying.

Thrift Stores/Goodwills

Another option that can save you a ton of money while building your collection is browsing through local thrift stores or Goodwills in your area. Much like flea markets, it’s always a mystery what you will find and many people enjoy the thrill of the hunt. The size and extent of a video game selection can greatly differ depending upon the store you’re shopping at. Some stores may only have a minimal collection of video games while others may have an extensive one with games for numerous consoles. In general, the games found in thrift stores and Goodwills will be somewhat outdated with most being at least 3 or 4 years old, but occasionally you will come across a newer game.

Video Game Stores

In addition, many local video game shops and used video game shops have good deals on certain games. Whether you’re looking for older games or newer ones, there is almost always something that will catch your eye when looking in the bargain section of these stores. Unlike flea markets and thrift stores, you can expect to find considerably newer games. The only downside is that video games tend to cost a bit more in these stores than they would in flea markets and thrift stores.
Dinky Dana is a serious video game collector and knowledgeable on nearly all consoles. His site allows gamers to find video game stores and capitalize on discount games.