There are always some basic rules or a code to hold near and dear to your heart when it comes to any aspect of life. These codes can be anything from “treat others the way you want to be treated” to “floss after every meal”. It’s good to keep rules like this handy, so I figured I’d compile a list of the most essential mantras to live by when it comes to gaming in general.
Rule 1: Become familiar with every system released.
You never know what you will find while just going to a yard sale or a swap meet. If you are familiar with the different makes and models of certain systems, highly sought after games, and different peripherals, you can save yourself the trouble of missing out on an unbelievable find.
Rule 2: Follow the Market.
Prices are always fluctuating for certain games and systems. To make the best purchase with your money, pay attention to prices on Ebay, retail prices (online and offline), and the Digitpress Price Guide, and try to find a price you are comfortable with.
Rule 3: Boxed is ALWAYS better.
When collecting, boxed games and systems will always have more collectors’ value. If it’s feasible, make the effort to buy your stuff boxed. This also means you should keep your boxes!
Rule 4: Be careful when buying things to trade or sell.
Try to stay away from common items (things like Super Mario Bros. for NES, spare PlayStations, etc.) whey buying extra stuff to sell or trade. You will end up having trouble getting rid of them since everyone and their grandmother has them or has easy access elsewhere to them.
Rule 5: Maintain your collection.
A regular cleaning of cartridges, systems, and an overall dusting of your gaming area will help prolong the life of everything as well as make it more presentable.
Rule 6: Don’t go broke buying games.
Make sure you have some money leftover from buying games. Before you know it your wallet will be screaming because of the strain you put it through, so pace your spending by setting a budget for yourself.
Rule 7: Be wary of 3rd party hardware.
What may be cheaper, cooler looking, and more versatile than the regular brand may only be a cheap piece of plastic with bad wiring. Be careful and do some research before buying from a 3rd party brand.
Rule 8: Tell people you collect.
Mention to people that you trust that you collect video games. In the long run, these people may be able to give you video game stuff that they don’t need any more, or might just spot a killer deal for you.
Rule 9: Buy cheap package deals.
If you see a bunch of games going for a lump sum that is within your budget, get it. Just make sure that there are a few games that you want or that are easily tradable; you don’t want to be suck with a bunch of EA Sports titles from the mid-90’s.
Rule 10: Enjoy yourself.
This rule is applicable to everything in your day-to-day life, but you shouldn’t forget it. Hobbies are all about fun and your personal enjoyment, and should be treated that way. In the meantime, game on, my brothas and sistas.
