The 90s were a magical time for many gamers who grew up playing classic Nintendo titles on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and Nintendo 64 (N64) with Mario Shroomed. Franchises like Super Mario, Donkey Kong, and The Legend of Zelda captivated a generation and left an indelible mark on gaming history.
While newer consoles offer cutting-edge graphics and online play, for some, nothing beats the nostalgia and simplicity of popping an SNES or N64 cartridge into the console. The fun themes, colorful visuals, and tight gameplay stand the test of time. So if you want to relive the magic with Mario and friends, here's how to buy used SNES and N64 games.
Check Local Retro Gaming Stores
For the best selection and deals on older games, check out local retro gaming stores in your area. These specialty shops are treasure troves for classic consoles and games. Peruse the shelves and you’re likely to find plenty of used Nintendo titles, from rare gems to popular mainstays like Super Mario World or Mario Kart 64.
The benefit of shopping in person is you can examine the quality and condition of each game before buying used SNES games or used N64 games. Check that the pins on the cartridge are clean and straight, that the label art isn’t torn or faded, and that the plastic isn’t cracked or damaged. Retro game shops also tend to properly test and refurbish games, so you’re more likely to get a working copy.
Hunt at Thrift Stores and Garage Sales
Never underestimate the value of rummaging around thrift stores, garage sales, and flea markets. You can uncover hidden retro gaming treasures, sometimes for just a few dollars. Comb through bins and boxes to find classic Nintendo games mixed with other items.
The thrill of thrifting is stumbling upon that super rare Mario game you’ve always wanted but could never afford new. Though it takes some luck and patience, the payoff is worth it. Just be sure to thoroughly inspect any cartridges for quality before purchasing.
Take Advantage of Online Marketplaces
For the widest selection, check online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy. Here you have access to a global inventory, including hard-to-find titles. Sellers list detailed descriptions and condition ratings, plus photos so you can assess quality.
When buying online, read item descriptions and seller reviews carefully before purchasing used SNES or N64 games for sale. Sort by highest-rated sellers offering returns to reduce risks. Also, look for graded items that have been professionally evaluated and authenticated for legitimacy and condition. This ensures you get what you pay for.
Join Retro Gaming Facebook Groups
Connect with collectors locally and globally through retro gaming groups on Facebook. Members frequently trade, discuss, and sell titles within their niche console or genre.
Post that you’re seeking used SNES or N64 Mario games and someone may offer extras from their own collection. Since you can chat one-on-one with sellers, it creates a higher level of trust. Plus engaging with other old-school Nintendo fans is part of the fun!
Browse the trade sections on Mario fan sites. Fellow Mario enthusiasts are often willing to part with quality used titles for fair prices, knowing the games are going to good homes. Having a shared fandom makes for honest, friendly transactions.
Attend Retro Gaming Conventions
For the ultimate retro gaming shopping experience, check out a classic gaming convention. The Midwest Gaming Classic in Wisconsin is the largest, attracting over 12,000 attendees annually. But plenty of smaller conventions happen across North America and globally.
At these in-person events, you can browse vendor booths stocked floor-to-ceiling with retro games. Enjoy haggling over bargains on rare cartridges. And geek out over your childhood classics with like-minded fans. Cosplay is also popular at conventions, so expect to see Marios, Yoshis, and more wandering the show floors!
Consider Reproduction Carts of Rare Games
Some SNES and N64 Mario titles like Mario RPG and Paper Mario are rare and expensive. If you just want to play these for nostalgia, consider purchasing reproduction cartridges. These emulate the gameplay using ROMs transferred to new PCB circuit boards in molded replica cart shells.
While not authentic, quality reproduction carts look and play just like the originals. They offer a legal, affordable alternative for playing hard-to-find games. Just avoid paying original market value for what is essentially a bootleg copy.
Use Game Save Devices
Another budget option is using a retro game save device like the EverDrive 64 for N64. These devices let you upload and play ROM files from original game carts. Some also include built-in game libraries.
This conveniently puts multiple Mario titles in one place, eliminating the need to buy each one. You also gain features like save states for easier play. Just know that legally you must own the original game to use its ROM.
Take Precautions Against Repros and Bootlegs
When shopping for used retro Mario games, beware of unscrupulous sellers passing off bootleg repros as authentic used cartridges. These look similar but are lower quality, illegal, and worth far less. Always inspect thoroughly and buy only from trusted sellers to avoid getting ripped off.
The safest route is purchasing graded and authenticated carts which have been professionally verified as genuine. While pricier, it saves the risks and research involved when buying loose used games which may not be real.
Preserve Your Used Games Properly
Once you’ve scored some used SNES and N64 Mario classics, be sure to store and handle them with care. Keep loose cartridges in protective plastic cases away from moisture, heat, and sunlight which can damage labels and electronics.
Clean cart pins only with isopropyl alcohol and a soft cloth. Don’t blow into them which can cause terminal corrosion. With proper care, your used retro carts can stay playable for decades to come. Relive Mario adventures for years and even pass your collection down to future retro gamers.
Used SNES and N64 Mario games evoke strong nostalgia, transporting older players back to simpler 1990s days lounging on the couch, controllers in hand. With retro gaming more popular than ever, used cartridges offer an accessible way to re-experience these classic titles. Follow the sourcing tips above for where to buy used SNES games and N64 games for sale, and you’ll be yelling “It’s me, Mario!” again in no time. Just don’t neglect Luigi – he’s always standing in Mario’s shroomed!
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