The Ultimate Guide to Starting a 90s Video Game Collection (Budget Edition)

The 90s were a golden age for video games, with iconic consoles like the Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis, and the original PlayStation defining a generation of gaming. While collecting retro games has become increasingly popular (and expensive), it's still possible to build an impressive collection without emptying your wallet. This guide will show you how to start your 90s gaming collection on a budget, focusing on affordable consoles, underrated games, and smart shopping strategies.

Why Collect 90s Video Games?

The 90s represent a unique period in gaming history—a transition from the 2D pixel art of the 8-bit and 16-bit eras to the early 3D polygonal graphics of the 32-bit and 64-bit generations. This decade saw incredible innovation in game design, storytelling, and technology.

Beyond nostalgia, 90s games offer experiences that are often different from modern titles: local multiplayer focus, challenging gameplay without hand-holding, and game designs that had to maximize limited hardware. Many of these games remain incredibly playable today, offering unique experiences you can't find in contemporary releases.

Getting Started: The Essentials

Before diving into specific consoles and games, here are some general tips for beginning collectors:

• Set a budget and stick to it—collecting can become addictive!
• Focus on one system at first rather than trying to collect for multiple platforms
• Research prices using sites like PriceCharting to avoid overpaying
• Prioritize games you'll actually play rather than just collecting for display
• Consider condition but be willing to accept some cosmetic wear for better prices

"The best retro game collection isn't the most valuable or complete—it's the one that brings you the most joy to play."

— Maria Chen, Vintage Gaming Archivist

Budget-Friendly Consoles Worth Collecting

Some 90s consoles offer much better value than others. Here are our top recommendations for budget-conscious collectors:

Sega Genesis/Mega Drive

The Genesis remains one of the most affordable 90s consoles to collect for, with many common games available for under $10. The Model 2 version is particularly reliable and can often be found for $50-70.

PlayStation 1

The original PlayStation has a massive library with many affordable titles. The later model PSOne is more reliable and compact, though any model is a good starting point.

Nintendo 64

While some N64 games have become expensive, the console itself and many fun titles remain affordable. The system is also incredibly durable, with most 25+ year old units still working perfectly.

Game Boy Color

Nintendo's color handheld offers excellent value, with many great games available for $10-20. The hardware is nearly indestructible and still looks great today.

Hidden Gems: Great Games That Won't Break the Bank

While some iconic titles command high prices, there are plenty of excellent games that remain affordable. Here are some hidden gems by platform:

Sega Genesis Affordable Classics

• Comix Zone ($15-25) - Unique beat 'em up set inside a comic book
• Vectorman ($10-20) - Impressive platformer with pseudo-3D graphics
• Rocket Knight Adventures ($20-30) - Excellent platformer with unique mechanics
• Streets of Rage 2 ($25-35) - One of the best beat 'em ups ever made
• Beyond Oasis ($25-40) - Zelda-like action RPG with beautiful graphics

PlayStation 1 Budget Picks

• Crash Bandicoot ($15-25) - Iconic 3D platformer that defined the system
• Spyro the Dragon ($15-25) - Charming 3D platformer with open worlds
• Tomb Raider ($10-20) - Groundbreaking action-adventure
• Medal of Honor ($10-15) - Influential WWII first-person shooter
• Tekken 3 ($15-25) - One of the best fighting games of the era

Nintendo 64 Affordable Gems

• Star Wars: Rogue Squadron ($15-25) - Excellent space combat game
• Wave Race 64 ($15-25) - Jet ski racing with amazing water physics
• 1080° Snowboarding ($10-20) - Realistic snowboarding simulator
• Star Fox 64 ($25-35) - On-rails shooter with branching paths
• WCW/nWo Revenge ($10-15) - Accessible and fun wrestling game

Game Boy Color Bargains

• Wario Land 3 ($20-30) - Creative platformer with puzzle elements
• Tetris DX ($10-20) - The definitive portable version of Tetris
• R-Type DX ($15-25) - Excellent shoot 'em up with color enhancements
• Harvest Moon GBC ($20-30) - Addictive farming simulation
• Mario Golf ($15-25) - Surprisingly deep golf game with RPG elements

Essential Accessories

To get the most out of your retro gaming collection, consider these affordable accessories:

Must-Have Add-ons

• S-Video or RGB SCART cables ($10-30) - Dramatically improve picture quality on CRT TVs
• Memory cards for PlayStation ($5-15) - Essential for saving game progress
• Controller extension cables ($5-10) - For more comfortable couch gaming
• Game cases and protective sleeves ($10-20) - Keep your collection in good condition
• RetroTink or similar upscaler ($70-100) - For connecting to modern TVs with minimal lag

Where to Find Deals on Retro Games

Knowing where to shop can save you significant money. Here are the best places to find affordable retro games:

In-Person Options

• Flea markets and yard sales - Often the best prices, but requires patience
• Thrift stores like Goodwill - Occasional great finds at low prices
• Local game stores - Higher prices but ability to inspect before buying
• Retro gaming conventions - Good selection and potential for haggling

Online Marketplaces

• ShopGoodwill.com - Online auction site with frequent retro game listings
• Facebook Marketplace - Local pickup options often at good prices
• Mercari - User-friendly app with many retro game sellers
• eBay - Largest selection but requires careful price comparison
• r/GameSale on Reddit - Community marketplace with fair prices

Buying Tips

To maximize your budget:

• Buy game lots and sell/trade duplicates
• Look for listings with poor photos or descriptions (often underpriced)
• Search for misspelled listings (e.g., "Segga" instead of "Sega")
• Be patient and set price alerts for specific games
• Consider Japanese imports for significant savings on some titles

Where to Find Retro Game Console Deals

Finding authentic retro consoles in good condition can be challenging, but these platforms consistently offer good options:

• eBay - The largest marketplace for retro consoles with strong buyer protection
• Mercari - Often has lower prices than eBay and great seller ratings
• Local retro game stores - Higher prices but systems are usually tested and guaranteed
• Facebook Marketplace - Can find amazing deals, but be sure to test before buying

Maintaining Your Collection

Proper maintenance ensures your games and consoles will last for decades:

Cleaning and Repair Basics

• Cartridge cleaning: Isopropyl alcohol (91%+) and cotton swabs for contacts
• Disc cleaning: Microfiber cloth and gentle circular motions from center outward
• Console cleaning: Compressed air for dust, mild soap solution for exteriors
• Controller maintenance: Disassemble and clean with alcohol to fix sticky buttons

Creative Display Ideas

Showcasing your collection can be almost as fun as playing the games:

Budget-Friendly Display Options

• Floating shelves with lights - Inexpensive way to display boxed games with added illumination - View on Amazon
• Media storage units - Perfect for loose cartridges and discs - View on Amazon
• Shadow boxes - For displaying special items or creating game-themed art
• Repurposed furniture - Old entertainment centers work great for retro setups

Modern Alternatives to Original Hardware

If you're more interested in playing than collecting, consider these modern options:

Affordable Alternatives

• Retro game compilations - Collections like Sega Genesis Classics offer dozens of games for $30
• Digital storefronts - Nintendo Switch Online and PlayStation Store offer classic titles
• Clone consoles - Systems like the Retron 5 play original cartridges on modern TVs
• Everdrive cartridges - Flash carts that can hold entire libraries on a single cartridge

Conclusion

Building a 90s video game collection doesn't have to be expensive. By focusing on affordable consoles, underrated games, and smart shopping strategies, you can create an impressive retro gaming setup without breaking the bank.

Remember that the most important aspect of collecting is enjoyment—prioritize games you'll actually play and systems that bring you nostalgia. With patience and the tips in this guide, you'll be well on your way to building an awesome 90s gaming collection that provides hours of retro fun without emptying your wallet.

Happy hunting, and may your cartridges never need blowing!