Where to Find NES Games in Thrift Stores: A Comprehensive Guide

Discovering NES (Nintendo Entertainment System) games in thrift stores is a rewarding treasure hunt, but one that requires some strategic planning. The availability of NES games can vary widely from store to store and even over time. This guide will help you maximize your chances of finding those iconic games and perhaps other vintage gaming treasures.

Where to Look for NES Games

The quest for NES games starts with identifying the right venues. Here are several strategies to help you succeed:

Local Thrift Stores

Popular chains such as Goodwill and Salvation Army, as well as local independent thrift shops, often have sections dedicated to electronics and media. These sections are a great place to start your search. Make it a habit to visit frequently, as new items often come in regularly, making this an ever-changing treasure hunt.

Vintage and Retro Stores

If you're more interested in a curated selection, consider vintage and retro gaming stores. These stores specialize in nostalgic video games, including NES cartridges. Visiting such stores in your area can yield a dedicated collection of NES games, often from high demand items to lesser-known gems.

Flea Markets and Swap Meets

Flea markets and swap meets are bustling venues where vendors sell a variety of items, including old video games. Prices can be highly variable, making it a good place to find a great deal on an NES game. Regularly visiting these events can increase your chances of finding something valuable.

Garage Sales and Estate Sales

Local listings or community boards can lead you to garage and estate sales where people often sell old video game collections. This can be a gold mine for finding NES games at great prices. Keep an eye out for such sales, as they can offer fantastic bargains on vintage gaming consoles and accessories.

Online Listings

For those who prefer online shopping, platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp often have personal sellers offering NES games. While not thrift stores, these listings can sometimes mimic thrift store prices, especially during swapping seasons or sales.

Community Events and Local Boards

Check local community boards or social media groups focused on gaming or collectibles. Members frequently share information on where to find good deals and are often more knowledgeable about local thrift stores and specific game selections. Don't hesitate to join or participate in such groups to gather insights and tips from fellow enthusiasts.

How to Find NES Games in Thrift Stores

When visiting thrift stores, here are some practical tips to increase your chances of finding NES games:

Check Multiple Sections

NES games and other video games are often located in a special section, typically on the lower shelves with a specialized console range from $60 to around $2000 for arcade machines. Ensure you check around for this section, as games might be mixed in with computer programs, DVDs, tapes, CDs, or VHS, or even displayed in a separate section or behind a display cabinet.

Ask for Information

It's helpful to ask the staff who work at the store, especially those who manage the video game section. Remember that one employee or volunteer might have more knowledge than another, so don't take their word as the final answer. If one person doesn't have information, visit another day to ask a different volunteer or employee. They might have received new items or seen some when they were cleaning or organizing.

Patience and Persistence

Thrift stores are ever-changing, with inventory continually shifting. Be persistent in your search and check frequently. Be prepared to comb through various sections and even sometimes non-obvious areas like the "office supplies" or "kids" sections. The layout of the store changes constantly, so you may need to check multiple times to cover all the possibilities.

Ultimately, finding NES games in thrift stores is a process of patience and persistence. whether it's a local thrift store, a vintage gaming store, or community events, the treasure hunt is sure to be rewarding.