In today’s digital age, many gamers prefer buying digital games. The biggest downside is that you can’t resell or trade them. That’s where physical copies come in handy. Buying used games is a great way to save money and expand your collection. However, as with anything second hand, there’s always a risk of scammers. Some people might disappear with your game or your money, and when dealing with rare editions worth hundreds of dollars, the stakes are even higher.
How Much Do Used Games Cost Compared to New Ones?
A recently released used game typically costs about 20% less than a new copy. For instance, if a new game costs $60, a second-hand version will likely be around $48. Because the price difference isn’t huge, many gamers, myself included, prefer waiting for new copies to go on sale, especially for less popular titles.
Older games can sometimes fall into the collector’s category and become quite expensive. Their value depends on several factors:
- How rare the game is
- The condition of the packaging (some older cases were made of cardboard)
- Whether the game is sold in a local group or online. Sellers unfamiliar with the market might price lower
- The edition type, such as later reprints like PlayStation Hits
There are no strict pricing rules. Sometimes, you’ll find the same game in similar condition at completely different prices.
How to Avoid Unreliable Buyers and Sellers
If you’re selling:
Check if your courier service allows you to cancel the shipment before it reaches the drop-off center. This can help if you later discover an issue with the payment.
If you’re buying:
- Be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true. Always check seller reviews and comments.
- Watch out for products with hidden defects, like faulty controllers or consoles that haven’t been tested in years.
- Use secure payment methods that offer buyer protection, such as PayPal when available, like on eBay.
- Ask for additional photos of the game if the listing lacks details.
- In social media groups, check the seller’s history. If they’re well-known, they’re less likely to scam you. Facebook Marketplace can be risky, so I don’t recommend it.
- If a seller has a massive collection of games, ask if it’s a private collection or a store clearing out inventory. You might be able to visit their storage.
Paying in Cash
Cash transactions are good for in-person deals, especially for high-value games, but they come with risks of their own:
- Always meet the seller in a public, well-lit place, preferably during the day. If possible, bring a friend or family member.
- Inspect the game for scratches or damage before handing over money.
- If you’re receiving cash, learn how to identify counterfeit bills using your country’s central bank guidelines.
- When using payment apps linked to phone numbers, save the seller’s contact to avoid sending money to the wrong person.
How to Physically Inspect a Used Game
- Discs: Ask for a video showing the disc from different angles to check for scratches. There are products that help remove scratches, but it’s better to avoid the hassle.
- Digital Codes: If the game includes in-game codes, like Day One Edition bonuses, confirm whether they’ve already been used.
Buying Used Games from Abroad
If purchasing from international sellers, consider these factors:
- Shipping costs: Fees can be high and sometimes cancel out any savings.
- Delivery times: Buying from places like China can mean waiting weeks or even months.
- Customs and taxes: Import fees can add up. Some buyers ask sellers to declare a lower value on the package to avoid customs fees, but I strongly advise against this. It’s not worth the risk of getting into trouble with the authorities.
In some cases, buying locally or from nearby countries might be a better deal.
Trading Games
Game trades are a great way to refresh your collection at minimal cost. Many stores offer trade-in options, but be sure to check their exchange policies and fees.
Things to keep in mind:
- Sports games often have limited trade-in value, especially older editions.
- Keep your games in good condition for better trade-in offers. Store them properly and avoid damaging the cases.
Conclusion
Buying second-hand games is a great way to play more for less, whether you’re into PlayStation, Nintendo, or Xbox titles. The key is to be cautious, inspect the product carefully, and only buy from trusted sources. With a bit of research, you can build an impressive game collection without spending a fortune.
Always check the game thoroughly before buying and don’t hesitate to ask questions. After all, the goal is to enjoy great games without paying full price.
