NES Collecting on a Budget: One Dad's Guide

Collecting NES games in 2026 doesn't have to cost a fortune. Here's how I've built a respectable library without breaking the bank.

1. Flea Markets & Garage Sales

Still the best source for cheap games. Most sellers don't check eBay prices — they just want to clear out old boxes. I've found CIB copies of classics for $5 or less.

2. Know Your Hidden Gems

Some of the best NES games are still dirt cheap. Retro Game Master, Kickle Cubicle, and Clash at Demonhead are all under $20 and fantastic.

3. Buy Lots, Sell Duplicates

Buying a bundle of 20 games for $50 usually nets you 2-3 keepers and 17 games you can flip for $3-5 each. Ends up making the keepers free.

4. Reproduction Carts

For ridiculously expensive games ($200+), repros are a legitimate way to actually play them without the collector tax. Just don't try to pass them off as real.

Happy hunting!