Retro games: live auctions and direct sale

Retro gaming brings together the consoles, cartridges, floppy disks and video games of past decades, from the first home consoles to the handheld machines of the 1990s and 2000s. Collectors look for iconic titles, limited editions, consoles in their original box or games still in their shrink wrap. Every object has its story, and its condition matters almost as much as its rarity.

The first point to check is the region of the game or console. In Europe, products are most often in PAL format, while other regions use other standards (NTSC-U for North America, NTSC-J for Japan). Depending on the machine, a game from another region may not work without an adapter or a modification: state the region in the listing, and check it if you buy.

The second point is completeness. The expression "complete in box" (CIB) describes a game sold with its original box, its manual and any inserts. A loose game, without box or manual, is not traded like a complete one. For a console, check that the cables, controllers and box are present, and ask the seller to show the machine running.

The third point is authenticity. Cartridges and boxes of sought-after games can be reproduced: compare labels, case finishes and references with a genuine copy, and ask for sharp photos or a video. Factory-sealed games are generally worth more than an opened game, but a re-closed wrapping or a repackaged box is not worth the same: look at the seals and ask for a close-up. Some independent companies also offer to assess and seal a new game.

Finally, think about shipping: a console or a game should be protected in a rigid box, with padding that prevents shocks. On Blisterr, you can buy with instant buy, a classic or silent auction, a Drop, or join a giveaway, in a video Peek or during a live. Every seller application is reviewed manually by our team, and the 30-day buyer protection covers an item that never arrives, does not match its description or is a proven counterfeit.