Strategy guides, also known as game guides, have long been valuable resources for gamers seeking to master complex games. But what happens when you’ve conquered the challenge and those guides are gathering dust? The good news is there’s a market for used strategy guides! This guide will explore the best places to sell your pre-owned strategy guides, maximizing your return and finding new homes for these helpful resources.
Identifying Your Strategy Guides’ Worth
Before you start selling, it’s crucial to determine the value of your strategy guides. Several factors influence the price, including:
- Rarity: First edition prints or limited edition guides are often more valuable.
- Condition: Guides in excellent condition with minimal wear and tear command higher prices.
- Game Popularity: Guides for highly popular or classic games typically have greater demand.
- Completeness: Ensure all included maps, posters, or bonus content are present.
Researching current listings on sites like eBay and dedicated gaming forums can give you a good idea of what similar guides are selling for.
Online Marketplaces: Reaching a Broad Audience
Online marketplaces offer the widest reach for selling your used strategy guides.
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eBay: eBay is a giant in the online marketplace world. Its auction format can generate competitive bidding, potentially driving up the price of rare or desirable guides. Carefully consider shipping costs and seller fees.
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Amazon Marketplace: Amazon’s vast customer base can expose your guides to a massive audience. While you’ll compete with other sellers, the ease of use and Amazon’s reputation for trustworthiness can boost sales.
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Mercari: Mercari is a user-friendly app and website popular for selling various items, including books and media. Its straightforward listing process and lower fees compared to eBay make it a good option for beginners.
Dedicated Gaming Forums and Communities: Targeting Niche Interests
For niche or older games, dedicated gaming forums and communities can be goldmines.
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Reddit: Subreddits like r/GameSale or dedicated subreddits for specific game series can connect you with interested buyers. Be sure to follow the community’s rules for selling.
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Gaming Forums: Websites like NeoGAF (now ResetEra) or dedicated forums for games like Final Fantasy or The Legend of Zelda often have buy/sell/trade sections.
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Facebook Marketplace: Facebook groups dedicated to retro gaming or specific consoles can be surprisingly effective.
Alt Text: Facebook Marketplace logo, a blue icon representing the storefront.
These platforms allow you to target buyers specifically seeking guides for particular games, increasing your chances of a sale.
Local Game Stores and Consignment Shops: Quick and Easy Options
While you might not get top dollar, local game stores and consignment shops offer a convenient way to offload your guides.
- Used Game Stores: Many used game stores will buy strategy guides, especially for popular games. Be prepared to accept a lower price than you would get selling directly to consumers.
- Consignment Shops: Consignment shops will display your guides and pay you a percentage of the sale price. This can be a good option if you don’t want to handle the selling process yourself.
Tips for Maximizing Sales
No matter where you choose to sell, these tips can help you maximize your sales:
- Accurate Descriptions: Provide detailed descriptions of the guide’s condition, including any flaws.
- High-Quality Photos: Take clear, well-lit photos of the guide’s cover, spine, and any notable features (like maps or posters).
- Competitive Pricing: Research current market prices and price your guides competitively.
- Fast Shipping: Ship your guides promptly and securely.
- Excellent Customer Service: Respond to inquiries promptly and professionally.
By following these tips, you can turn your used strategy guides into cash and give them a new life with other gamers.
