Nintendo DS: Collecting In 2024

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Post on Nov 23, 2024

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Nintendo DS: Collecting in 2024 - A Nostalgic Dive into the Handheld Heaven

Hey everyone! So, you're thinking about diving into the world of Nintendo DS collecting in 2024? That's awesome! It's a seriously fun hobby, but let me tell you, it can be a bit of a wild ride. I've learned a lot the hard way, trust me.

My First (and Costly) Mistake

Remember when I said it was a wild ride? Yeah, well, my first big foray into DS collecting was a total disaster. I saw this "rare" copy of Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective on eBay—a game I love—going for, like, $200. I was so hyped, thinking I'd snag a sweet deal and resell it for a profit, right? Wrong. Turns out, it was a fake. A total counterfeit. The seller vanished, and I was left with a worthless cart and a massive dent in my wallet. Ugh.

That experience taught me a ton. It's crucial to verify sellers and authenticity when you're dealing with rare games, especially on platforms like eBay. Never rush into a purchase.

Pro-Tip #1: Authenticity Checks are Key

Seriously, this cannot be stressed enough. Learn to spot fakes. Look for inconsistencies in the box art, the cartridge itself, even the manual. There are tons of resources online—forums, YouTube videos—that can help you learn the subtle differences between genuine and counterfeit games. I use price charting websites to see what a game should cost and I cross-reference listings.

Beyond the Big Names: Finding Hidden Gems

Okay, so you've learned your lesson about fakes (hopefully!). Now, let's talk strategy. Don't just focus on the big-name titles everyone wants, like Pokemon or Fire Emblem. While those are valuable, you can find some amazing deals on lesser-known DS games. These "sleeper hits" can be fun to play and surprisingly valuable.

Pro-Tip #2: Explore the Catalog Deep Dive!

Think about the genres you like: RPGs, puzzle games, platformers... then explore the DS library beyond the usual suspects. There are so many amazing games that got overlooked. You might discover your new favorite game and find yourself holding a future collector's item.

The Condition Conundrum: What to Look For

You'll often see sellers describe the condition of games using grades like CIB (Complete In Box), loose, near mint, etc. CIB is usually the most valuable, but even within those grades, there's a lot of variation.

Pro-Tip #3: Pictures are Everything!

Don't rely solely on the seller's description. Request additional photos! Look closely at the game cartridge, the box, and the manual. Are there scratches? Is the box damaged? Is there a sticker that shows its a fake? These details significantly affect the value.

For example, a nearly mint CIB copy of Elite Beat Agents will fetch a higher price than one with a slightly damaged box, even if the game itself is in perfect shape. This is especially true for limited editions or special releases.

Where to Find Your Treasures?

eBay is a huge marketplace, but it’s far from the only option. You can try online marketplaces like Amazon, Mercari, and Facebook Marketplace. Local game stores and conventions are also great places to find cool stuff—and often, you can haggle the price down a bit.

Conclusion: Patience and Persistence Pay Off

So there you have it—my crash course in Nintendo DS collecting. It's a fun and rewarding hobby, but it does take time, patience, and a little bit of research. Remember to check for authenticity, explore beyond the popular titles, and always carefully examine the condition before you buy. Don’t get discouraged! Finding those hidden gems is what makes this journey exciting. Happy hunting!