Gaming has come a long way, but some of the most sought-after titles today aren’t the latest releases—they’re old video games. Whether it’s a childhood favourite like Super Mario 64, a rare Sega Mega Drive cartridge, or a PlayStation One classic, gamers and collectors alike are driving a massive resurgence in retro gaming.
So, why are old video games making a comeback? From nostalgia-driven gaming to investment-worthy collectibles, here’s why your classic titles might just be the hottest trend right now.

​

1. Nostagia is Driving the Old Video Game Resurgence 

For many, gaming in the ‘80s, ‘90s, and early 2000s was more than just a pastime—it was a defining part of growing up. Now, as those same gamers reach adulthood, the desire to relive those experiences has skyrocketed.
There’s something special about slotting a cartridge into a Super Nintendo or hearing the familiar start-up sound of a PlayStation One. The simplicity of old video games, without endless updates or microtransactions, is a welcome escape from today’s gaming industry.

 

2. Collecting Old Video Games is a Growing Market​

If you’ve got old video games lying around, you might be sitting on a hidden treasure. The retro gaming market has exploded in value, with some rare titles fetching hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars.
Certain games, especially those that are complete in box (CIB), have become highly sought after by collectors. Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Final Fantasy VII, and EarthBound have all increased in value over time, making them both a nostalgic treasure and a smart investment.
If you’re wondering what your old video games are worth, check out our trade-in option at Collectibles By Tris, where we offer fair value for retro games and consoles.

​

3. Modern Consoles Come With Massive Prices​

Modern consoles often come with hefty price tags as most systems cost upwards of $500. For example, the newest Switch 2 is rumoured to cost $600 when released later this year. On top of that, base games are increasingly expensive, and many come with hidden costs. Microtransactions, downloadable content (DLC), and additional accessories required for full functionality can quickly inflate the overall cost of gaming. This contrasts with old video games and their consoles where you can get a complete experience right out of the box, with no need for ongoing purchases or extra fees, making retro gaming a much more affordable and straightforward option.

​​​

4. Gamers Are Finding Real Connections Through Local Multiplayer 

Before online multiplayer became the standard, gaming was a social activity played side by side. Old video games bring back the era of couch co-op and split-screen fun.
Whether it’s playing Mario Kart 64 with mates, battling it out in Street Fighter II, or teaming up in GoldenEye 007, classic games were built for in-person gaming. With so many modern games focusing on online multiplayer, retro consoles and old video games offer a refreshing return to shared gaming experiences.

​

5. Physical Old Video Games Maintain Real Value

​

With digital gaming taking over, many players have realised the drawbacks of cloud-based libraries and online-only purchases. Servers shut down, games get removed from online stores, and licensing agreements change. But old video games? They’re yours forever.
A physical cartridge or disc will still work decades later, as long as it’s taken care of. That’s why many collectors and players prefer owning the original copies instead of relying on digital services that may not be around in the future.

​​

​​​

The Old-School Gaming Trend is Here to Stay

Whether you’re jumping back into retro gaming for nostalgia, collecting rare classics, or simply enjoying the timeless fun of old video games, now is the perfect time to embrace the trend.

With the demand for physical games growing and the retro gaming community thriving, there’s never been a better time to dust off your old collection—or start a new one.

Explore our range of old video games at Collectibles By Tris and experience the magic of classic gaming today.

​