Board games, those cardboard kingdoms and plastic empires, can accumulate quickly. Your shelves might be overflowing with titles you’ve played once or twice, or perhaps you’re simply looking to downsize your collection and fund your next gaming adventure. Fortunately, there are numerous avenues for selling your used board games, turning those dusty boxes into cash or store credit. This guide explores six prime locations where you can find eager buyers and give your games a new home.
Unload Your Games: Where to Find Buyers
Before you start listing, consider the condition of your games. Are all the components present? Are there any tears, stains, or missing pieces? Honesty is key. Take clear photographs of the game, showing the box, components, and any imperfections. This transparency will build trust with potential buyers and speed up the selling process. Clean the game components and box to make them look their best, increasing their appeal.
Think about your pricing strategy. Research the game’s current market value by checking online marketplaces like eBay or BoardGameGeek’s marketplace. Factor in the condition of your game and any included extras. Be realistic about the price you set. Consider offering a slight discount compared to new copies, and be prepared to negotiate. Having a clear understanding of the game’s worth beforehand will help you make informed decisions and achieve a successful sale.
Online Marketplaces: Digital Gaming Havens
Online marketplaces offer a vast audience for your used board games. Platforms like eBay are well-established and provide a broad reach. You can create detailed listings with photos, descriptions, and pricing options (fixed price or auction). Be aware of fees and shipping costs, and factor them into your pricing. eBay’s buyer protection can offer peace of mind for both the seller and buyer.
BoardGameGeek (BGG) is a dedicated online community for board game enthusiasts. Their marketplace is specifically designed for buying and selling games. It’s a great place to connect with serious gamers and find buyers who appreciate the hobby. The advantage is that you’re reaching a targeted audience. However, you might need to be more patient, as the pool of potential buyers may be smaller compared to more general marketplaces.
Local Shops: Trading Games in Your Area
Local game stores can be a convenient option for selling your used games, especially if you want a quick transaction. Many stores offer cash or store credit for used games. The trade-off is that they will likely offer less than you could get selling the game yourself, as they need to resell it for a profit.
Before visiting a local shop, it’s wise to call ahead and inquire about their policies. Some stores may have specific criteria for accepting used games, such as the condition of the game or the popularity of the title. Be prepared to negotiate the price. This option is excellent for convenience, but it may not offer the highest return on your investment.
Conventions & Events: Selling Face-to-Face
Board game conventions and local gaming events provide a fantastic opportunity to sell your games directly to fellow enthusiasts. You can set up a table at a convention or advertise your games on local gaming groups. This allows you to interact with potential buyers, demonstrate the game’s condition, and negotiate prices in person.
Selling at conventions allows for a more personal touch and can lead to faster sales compared to online marketplaces. However, this method requires more upfront effort, including setting up a table and transporting your games. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of convention fees and travel expenses. Nevertheless, the face-to-face interaction can be rewarding, and you may find a buyer who will become a new friend.
Selling your used board games can be a rewarding experience, freeing up space on your shelves and providing funds for new additions to your collection. By exploring these six options, you can find the ideal platform to connect with buyers and give your games a second life. Whether you choose the convenience of online marketplaces, the personal touch of local shops, or the excitement of conventions, happy selling, and happy gaming!