The Resale Value of Video Games:
The used and collectible video game market is influenced by several factors, including distribution regions, languages, and rarity. In particular, regional codes such as NTSC, PAL, or NTSC-J, as well as language (French or English), play a key role in the resale value of games. In this article, we explore the impact of these aspects on the Quebec and Canadian market, as well as online sales platforms, while taking into account resale statistics.
Regional Codes: NTSC, PAL and NTSC-J
Video games are distributed based on geographic regions and use different standards to ensure their compatibility with local consoles:
- NTSC : Used mainly in North America and Japan.
- PAL : Used in Europe and some regions like Australia.
- NTSC-J : Specific to the Japanese market.
These codes are essential to determine if a game can run on a console in the same region. For example, an NTSC game will not run on a PAL console without modifications. This regional limitation can impact resale value, especially for games produced in limited quantities in certain regions.
Why Do Some Games Have a Higher Value?
Rare video games or games produced exclusively for a particular region can fetch high sums on the resale market. For example, some games designed for the Japanese market are highly sought after by Western collectors, especially if they have never been localized for other regions. This creates a high demand, and the rarity of the product drives up prices.
A game produced in small quantities, such as a region-exclusive title, can easily double or triple its value. This rarity, combined with nostalgia, makes retro gaming a lucrative sector for sellers and collectors.
Language and Its Impact in Quebec and Canada
The Quebec market is unique because of its bilingualism, with a large majority of French speakers. This directly affects the demand and value of video games based on their language.
French Games vs. English Games
Games available in French or with a French language option are often more sought after in Quebec, which gives them a higher resale value. Video games often have to be localized in French to comply with local laws. However, some titles are not translated into French, or are only partially translated, which can impact their popularity and, consequently, their resale value.
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Games with a French version : These games have greater value in Quebec because they meet local linguistic expectations. For example, a game with menus and dialogues in French will have more success on local sales platforms.
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Games only in English : Although English-only games may be less in demand by French-speaking players, they retain a stable value for English speakers or collectors.
Statistics on the Quebec and Canadian Market
In 2023, approximately 40% of physical video game sales in Canada took place in Quebec, with a significant share of games localized in French. On the second-hand market, the average value of a video game varies between $20 and $60 , depending on condition, region of origin, and language. Mint condition games, with box and manual, often sell for more, especially if they are sought after by collectors.
Limited or rare editions, such as region- or language-specific versions, can fetch much higher prices, sometimes exceeding $200 for games in good condition.
Resale Platforms: eBay, Amazon and Kijiji
eBay: The Collectors' Platform
eBay is a go-to platform for reselling video games, especially retro or rare titles. Collectors use this site to find specific editions, NTSC-J or PAL versions, and limited editions. Prices on eBay can vary greatly depending on the region and the rarity of the game.
Quebec collectors, for example, often seek out games sold in other parts of the world, which increases demand for certain imported titles. The rarity of PAL or NTSC-J versions can thus influence prices, which can sometimes reach several hundred dollars for games in perfect condition.
Amazon: A More Standardized Marketplace
On Amazon's video game marketplace is primarily focused on modern titles, but the platform also offers used games or re-releases. Limited editions or French-localized versions have a higher value in Quebec due to the increased demand for French-language games.
Prices on Amazon are often more stable than on eBay, with less fluctuation based on rarity. However, limited editions or games in mint condition can still fetch high prices, especially for sought-after titles.
Kijiji and Marketplace: Local Alternatives
Kijiji And Facebook Marketplace are popular platforms for reselling video games in Quebec. They allow local sellers to offer games without having to pay shipping or upload fees. These sites are often used to sell games in French, or to find rare titles locally.
Prices on these platforms are generally lower than on eBay or Amazon, but collectors can find some great deals there, especially for collectible games or limited editions that are no longer easily found on the traditional market.
Resale Value: Key Factors
Several elements influence the resale value of a video game:
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Rarity : Games produced in small quantities, or those from a specific region, are often much more valuable.
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Condition : A complete game, with its original box and manuals, will have a much higher value than a simple cartridge or disc.
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Region : Games from certain regions, such as Japanese or European versions, are often sought after by North American collectors and may have a higher value.
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Language : In Quebec, games in French or with a French language option are more popular than exclusively English-language versions.
Conclusion
The video game resale market is influenced by a multitude of factors, from distribution regions to language preferences. In Quebec and Canada, the language, region of origin, and rarity of a title play a crucial role in determining its value. Whether you are an avid collector or a casual reseller, understanding these dynamics will help you navigate the complex world of video game resale, where every detail can make the difference in a title’s valuation.