The new year is prime time for clearing out — and that stack of finished games, retired consoles, and collectibles you’ve moved on from is worth real money. Whether you want cash in hand or credit toward your next pickup, a little know-how gets you the most value. Here’s how selling and trading actually works, and how to come out ahead.
Cash or store credit — know the trade-off
When you bring items in, you’ll typically have a choice between cash and store credit. Credit almost always stretches further, so if you’re planning to pick something up anyway, it’s the better deal. Cash is there when you need it. Deciding what you want before you walk in makes the whole process quick and easy.
What drives the value of games and consoles
Condition is king. Complete-in-box titles with the original case and manual are worth more than loose discs or carts. Working controllers, clean discs free of deep scratches, and included cables all add up. Demand matters too — sought-after and harder-to-find titles command more than common ones. Bringing everything that came with an item, and making sure it’s clean and functional, meaningfully increases what it’s worth.
Selling collectibles: condition and rarity
For Funko Pops and figures, box condition is a major value driver, along with whether a piece is an exclusive or a retired “vault” release. A clean, undamaged box can make a real difference. As collectors ourselves, we evaluate these fairly and can often spot value in a piece you didn’t realize was sought-after.
Local trade-in versus selling online
Selling online can occasionally net a bit more per item, but only after you account for listing time, photography, shipping costs, marketplace fees, and the ever-present risk of scams and disputes. For a stack of games, those costs and hassles add up fast. Trading in locally gets you cash or credit the same day — no shipping, no fees, no waiting. For most people, the convenience and certainty win.
How our evaluation works
Bring your items in and we’ll test and assess them on the spot. Games get checked to confirm they boot and play; consoles get verified for full function; collectibles get evaluated for condition and demand. You’ll get a fair offer with no pressure — and because we’re gamers and collectors, not a faceless chain, we know what your stuff is genuinely worth.
Get the best offer: a quick checklist
Clean your discs and cartridges. Gather cases, manuals, cables, and controllers. Test what you can beforehand. Keep collectible boxes as clean and undamaged as possible. A little prep is the difference between a good offer and a great one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to sell games online or trade them in locally?
Online can occasionally earn slightly more per item, but after shipping, fees, and time, local trade-in is usually the better value — and you walk out with cash or credit the same day.
What gets me the most value for a trade-in?
Complete-in-box items, clean discs, working controllers, and included cables and manuals all increase value. Choosing store credit over cash also stretches further.
Do you buy collectibles like Funko Pops?
Yes. We buy and trade Funko Pops and figures, evaluating condition, exclusivity, and demand. Keeping boxes clean and undamaged helps maximize value.
Visit Reboot in Eastpointe
Whether you need a same-day repair, want to trade in games and consoles, or are hunting for the perfect collectible, Reboot is your one-stop shop in Eastpointe. Find us at 16567 E 10 Mile Rd, Eastpointe, MI 48021, open seven days a week. Call 586-778-3859 or get in touch — we’re happy to help.