Why I'm NOT a Sealed Game Collector

[@drivenspirit416]

It's interesting that people keep their games sealed until they play it! Personally, I open mine up right away cause I want to see what's inside (inner art, booklet, or a blank disappointment) but also so that there's zero friction when it's time for me to play. I take the cartridge out and put it in the carrying case so that I can easily switch between games. Also, people should claim the gold points on their new games!

[@buecar]

My entire 3DS and system are all still sealed LOL - some of the values on these games is astronomical now, hurts to open some.

[@HereComesRockire]

There's a special joy in opening a brand new game. I always get that childish wonder of getting something new to play.

[@orbalology]

The gold coins are a good point! I sometimes forget to grab mine in before the 1 year expiration 😅

[@kbhasi]

Yep! I do a similar thing to, but mostly to add the game to my Switch home menu (so I can check for any patches that weren't on the game card) and then either play it right away or put the card in one of my card cases, but I still keep the case for the often cool art they have, and also for the theoretical increased resale value.

[@vorpal22]

If it's a franchise I absolutely love, I might buy one copy to play and one sealed, but I open most games. Like Emily, I don't view games as an investment... if I did, I'd sell my sealed copy of Etrian Odyssey III that I bought for $40 for $270. I buy games because they make me happy.

[@orbalology]

This is why I'm not a financial channel lol. But when I was talking about the S&P500 I meant to say the annual return averages 10% (when historically looking back in 10 year increments).

[@CAM00ney]

I would be very interested in hearing you talk finance! I could talk your ear off about that subject, but instead I'll just say I hope you already have some shares of GameStop tucked away to help facilitate future game acquisitions.

[@stockkid07]

I will do you one even better. Looking back to the creation of the S&P 500. Even going back 60 or 70 years. Average is still around 10 percent a year :)

[@mylifeingaming]

[Coury] Good stuff! I open every game I buy, whether I'm gonna play it right then or not. I don't care about investment, I just care about checking them out and playin' them. I also don't buy many special editions because giant, weirdly shaped boxes annoy me so much. I do make exceptions for game games/series that I really care about, like Ys and Wonder Boy games. Sometimes I'll keep a game sealed when I already happen to have a digital version, like with Metroid Prime Remastered - but it doesn't happen often..

[@ScorpioCesarcade]

Lots of great reasons you shared here Emily. Me personally, I’m also someone who prefers physical collecting. If I ever want to feel like I own something, I need to hold it, open it and take all of its contents in. The experience these days tends to be disappointing just to open a new game and just see a cartridge or disc amongst nothingness. Growing up in the 90s, I always want so much more when I buy a physical game these days.

[@orbalology]

Physical media can be quite disappointing these days especially with all the minimal packaging & reliance on patches for the games to work correctly. Truly miss the 90s/early 2000s too in this regard.

[@BobbyK19]

I'm a new subscriber but I absolutely agree! I've started collecting 3DS games and I much prefer them to either be opened or for me to open them. So they can be played and loved!

[@orbalology]

As they were meant to be 😄

[@darkveilnight9993]

I need like 3 more 3ds games and I'm done makes 63 games now

[@bryancook6345]

Your a true gamer those who keep their games sealed are mostly scalpers to try to resell them for a higher price which will never happen sealed makes no sense to pay higher games are sealed so the stores knows if you used to the games or not if sealed you can return them and get your refund back I got sealed games that I’ll open too one day

[@timhewison5187]

You raise very good points on the speculative aspect to collecting and the potential challenges which should not be minimized! I do collect both new and CIB versions of games. Even though most of my games are sealed, I always focus on the games I enjoy playing. One of the measures I use when deciding between new and used is to compare prices between them. If the price is close between new and used, I always will buy new and sealed. If the price gap is large, then it makes sense to purchase used. Keep up the great work on your channel!

[@1983capcomfan]

Life is too short not to play games that would bring you happiness. No opening a sealed game is just spending money to have less space in your home.

[@Lynrowen]

Well said. We collect out of love for the series. I fully intend on opening and owning a physical representation of a particular entry and showing it as part of history, and part of the collection.

[@aoiyozoraa]

Your content and the topics brought to the table are refreshing. It truly helps inspecting our deep thoughts about gaming, at least in my case. I don't have truly big revelations but it reminds me of simple things that are yet often forgotten. Loving this channel so far.

[@orbalology]

Thank you, I'm glad you've been enjoying the channel :)

[@philipsidney123]

I had never thought about the lifetime of cart-based games, thanks for the heads up and links to those resources!

[@orbalology]

My pleasure, I'm glad I could help spread awareness about these potential issues!

[@PicklesEsquire]

I’m the same way! I love showing my games and being able to open them myself. Nothing is more exciting for me than opening a new game 😊

[@orbalology]

It really is thrilling to crack them open & see what's inside :)

[@ArkhamHermit]

I feel so seen by this perspective! I've always felt this way. I want my stuff for me. Not for the resale value. Not for the pristine, shelf-sitting clout. I want a thing that is mine, that I can use, but that I can also proudly see on my shelf as a part of my collection. If someday I want to sell it, it'll sell a bit cheaper. It is what it is.

[@RetroDeath]

I buy my games for me, I don't resell, but I love having sealed copies of my favorite games, it simply enhances the nostalgia, I have doubles to play.

[@kylemccoymusic4202]

​​​​​@@RetroDeath ​@RetroDeath totally fair and I'm happy that that makes you happy! But I can't say I find sealed games nostalgic, or correlated with my nostalgia. Playing games is nostalgic for me. OPENING a new game is nostalgic for me. As a kid, a never let my games sit plastic wrapped on a shelf. I'd open them up and use them and that's where my fond memories derive from.

[@RetroDeath]

@kylemccoymusic4202 Never had sealed games as a kid, back in the day even owning multiple games was a luxury.

[@ladyellington6572]

I had no idea about the Alpha Sapphire/Persona Q corruption and those are games I enjoy quite a lot (along with other game carts) so this was an formative video! Thank you

[@bobbymoss6160]

Emily is a real gamer who actually plays her games. Respect! I only have sealed games because I don't have time to play them. 😅

[@orbalology]

Haha, yeah I have a few still sealed but those suckers are going to get opened eventually 😂

[@Vilehand]

I'm in the same boat! So many games release nowadays compared to back in the day.

[@nyrlive]

So many great points as usual; prices fluctuate, fads come and go, and not knowing what’s going on inside the case are all good reasons to just open what you have, at least at some point, unless you’ve decided you probably won’t want it anymore. Speculators/resellers of course are buying for different reasons so the thrill of the gamble or just calculated speculation is its own thing, but us “curated collectors” in it for the fun of it have less reason to keep something sealed. I happened to stumble into a copy of Donkey Kong Country Returns for Wii still sealed at a thrift shop two weeks ago, for 20$, i'm not really planning to hook up my Wii anytime soon and I have it for 3DS so i'm guessing I will resell it, but probably for trade at a local shop since I don't really want to spend the time and effort to sell it on eBay

[@ColdNightsGaming]

I'm with you. Some games stay sealed til I get around to playing them, but that is the extent of it! Lovely video, Emily!

[@orbalology]

Thank you Jay :)

[@I_was_a_Bullfrog]

It's amazing to see how quickly your chaannel has grown in such a short time. You handle yourself so professionally too. Keep up the excellent work!

[@denpherflare5365]

It's because she is a looker, nothing too crazy but her facial features are easy on the eye, I came to see if there were any comments like that around, but not so far, which is nice

[@Stallzyx]

I just noticed the same thing 😮 apparently only hit 5k like 3 or 4 months ago and now it's quadrupled and I found the channel even longer before that I think

[@Whitlan]

I wholeheartedly agree with you. Shelf life is very important to keep in mind. My North American copy of Alpha Sapphire has stopped working sadly.

[@Brandyndyndyn]

It's probably good practice to open your games to make sure they're not pirated, too. I bought a brand new copy of Ace Combat 7 from Target. It had the Y-fold seal and looked like it was fresh from the factory. Nothing suspicious at all. It sat on my shelf for probably a year before I finally got around to it. And get this, it came up as Madden! Someone had thrown a printed label over the Madden disc to make it look like AC7. It had been so long, there wasn't anything I could do about it. Honestly, I'm kind of amused that someone went through all that trouble to pirate Ace Combat of all games!

[@BespokeSlipp]

Whoa that’s pretty wild! Sorry that happened

[@kbhasi]

Yep! I've seen videos where similar things happened but targeting Apple hardware collectors. In both cases, I believe the scanners try to prey on collectors who keep product packaging sealed.

[@Lavitz]

Back when it came out, the bundled Ace Combat 5 code was selling for $40+, someone probably took it and resealed it

[@kbhasi]

@@Lavitz That reminded me of a news story of many people buying a physical copy of a game in order to get access to an exclusive demo that wasn't available on the console's digital store.

[@BespokeSlipp]

@@kbhasi I’d be so mad if I bought a 1st gen iPhone, kept it sealed, only to resell it for a pretty penny now and it be a counterfeit

[@HyeAhShin]

I don't know how I ended up here in your channel but I've been enjoyed it so much so far. And like you, the only games that are sealed, are the one that I haven't had the chance play it yet. Great video~

[@orbalology]

Thanks, glad to hear you've been enjoying the content so far! :)

[@DavidRBrown7]

I have honestly never thought of myself as a collector as I tend to buy to play. I buy disk versions of some series because I have done since the first one. eg. Atelier. However, I looked at how many physical editions I have recently. Its around 1000 (and have played them all). So apparently I am a collector. However, recently I have bought a lot more digital editions simply because of space. Keep up the great and interesting content!

[@BespokeSlipp]

1000!!! What a collection, that’s awesome

[@crono_8398]

I have a handful of sealed special copies of things but not so much for making money on it later. I collect like you, pretty much whats important to me that im gonna play.

[@tonyp9313]

I love your video Emily. You made excellent points on the financial situation of gaming. You're wonderful & beautiful as always. So for my collecting, I used to collect about 20 games for each said consoles in case my roms or Ever drives break down or do not work. I want to have a copy of physical games I like. For collecting I am with you on you should collect to have them & display them. Yeah 100% agree with you that collecting just to sell them is a huge hassle. Like selling games online. You have to take a pic of them, make sure they work like you mentioned, list them & then wait for somebody to buy them off you. It's much easier buying because you don't have to go through those hassles. I really loved your point on the financial advise.

[@trebhum_]

Exactly, financial speculation is never something I want to get into while collecting. These games are pieces of art meant to be actually interacted with! I say, play the physical games you buy!

[@angietrif]

I would love to try out Lacrimosa of Dana! So cool to have a collector's edition. I have the same mindset as you! I find it more fulfilling to collect and hold onto games that mean something to you, or you know you will enjoy!

[@orbalology]

I think you'll love Ys VIII!! It's really one of the best action JRPGs, the combat is so addictive and intuitive :)

[@guccidonbuzzflightyear4440]

I got Lacrimosa of Dana physical today, amazing game!

[@ayligerwolf]

It is awesome!!! One of my favorites in recent times!

[@OtterloopB]

I would honestly put Ys VIII up there with the likes of Final Fantasy VII, Dragon Quest VIII and Chrono Trigger as one of the greatest RPGs I've *ever* played. It really is that stinkin' good. Ys is deeply underappreciated by the gaming community, which is a travesty given its gameplay is head and shoulders more fun than what the AAA scene offers nowadays. Ys VIII has characters you'll fall in love with, music that you'll rock out to, and gameplay that is consistently a blast to run around and play in. If you can, always opt for physical copies of Ys games. They're more than worth collecting.

[@ARIKAFGC]

Some sealed collection can have high values in the future some made fortune and some were left on a shelf Collectors in my place never made a fortune they just put it as a display as hobby. As for me I am a sealed collector for ATLUS games and a big fan of the Persona series and it's hard to find an US/NTSC sealed games due to it's very limited copies and mostly they are really high in prices. I buy both Digital to have the gaming experience and a physical sealed copy for collection purpose. Wish you the best and your channel is awesome

[@ItsOrnil]

I collect in much the same way as you. I'm not in this for the resale value at all, and I intend to keep and display most of the games and collectors editions I buy. It's nice to see other people doing that as well.

[@minishchap]

I appreciate your considerations here. For myself, it pretty much comes down to what sense of attachment I'm comfortable having with material possessions. Collecting games that I'm not functionally using *as games* makes me feel a little like I'm losing my mind.

[@BeniButang]

Wow. I stumbled upon your channel a couple of days back and was wondering if you ever touch on this particular topic. Had to post this before I even start watching the video 😆

[@killgronia5815]

Love your reasons. As a collector just do what best works for you. I only keep sealed the games I know 100% have value. Other then that, I to only buy what i like.

[@alexgold2061]

I recently found this channel and your view on different games is the greatest. Keep up the good work Emily!

[@orbalology]

Thank you, Alex!

[@justinnowicki8869]

She just seems impossibly wholesome and friendly. 😊

[@xtro7355]

I used to be a sealed collector for the purpose of reselling for profit, but I stopped doing it because unless you have a very large stock of said game, the time = profit is just not worth it, and there are better ways to invest your money. (Plus I have been burned more often than not buying games and seeing it not increase in value). Aside from a very small % of games, most don't increase in value more than 2x what they originally cost. Plus it takes close to a decade or longer for those games to reach that price. So if you bought a game for $50-$60 new and that game sealed is now worth $200. That's not a very big increase when you realize it took 8-10yrs (or longer) to get to that price. So when you think about it, waiting 8-10yrs just to profit a measly $140 is an extremely ineffective way to invest money. I say just buy what you want to play and either sell it down the road, or better yet, let your kids inherit it all from you in your later years (if you plan to have kids). That seems like a way better investment.

[@jl8138]

Great thoughts to hear for an early collector. Largely for budgetary reasons but also preferential ones, my own approach at an early stage of collecting has been to collect games that are of particular historical interest to me or I otherwise just enjoy irrespective of "value". Like, I'm not going to buy some random game whose value is entirely peculiar and circumstantial and has nothing to do with the desirability of the game per se. Nice to hear some similar perspective out there.

[@cyman89]

Retro Rebound sent me here! Looking forward to watching the channel grow

[@glorg]

Totally support this mindset - I want to get CE's open and thumb through everything, it's why I bought it haha. Great video, Emily!

[@orbalology]

Thanks! :)

[@Eagleknight815]

👏👏👏 Reason Three is the best reason for collecting. We do it because we want to. It's a hobby, not a business.

[@Psycoma72]

Another great video Emily. The nintendo switch is the first system where I double dipped in both digital and physical games. I love the convenience of having all my games on one system, BUT lol I also like looking at them on my shelves 😅 I might have a problem. But I agreed with your outlook on collector's items.

[@orbalology]

Thank you! Yeah the convenience with double dipping can sometimes be too tempting haha.

[@jcchaconjr]

I totally agree with your philosophy. I’ve been collecting for over 25 years now, and while I have a lot of sealed games in my collection, I’ve got a bunch that I have opened too. I like to keep the games sealed until I get around to them, just from a preservation standpoint. I also don’t see them as an investment, but I have to admit, if I ever found myself in a really tight spot, I have a few games that could probably unload to get me out of a hole in a pinch. So yeah, I don’t have any problems with anyone who collects differently than me; but I do have to criticize some people who merely look at games (particularly sealed games as just an investment - especially when they get mad because “us gamers” aren’t moving the market in their favored direction. The bottom line is, games are meant to be played, just like comics are meant to be read.🙂

[@MiBrCo4177]

The start of your video I 100% agree lol I tend to take at least an hour or sometimes two hours a night to play a game. I've spent two or three weeks playing through a game that way but it makes it so much more enjoyable and memorable.

[@RiouInsuiko]

Often I buy games way more often than I get around to playing them. When I buy them new from retailers I don't open them unless I'm going to play them. The collecting community has a meme about a never ending backlog and I'm no exception to that. Sometimes years later I'll see that something I bought has gone way up in value. In general my ideal for collecting would be nice complete in box copies. What I've found many times is that often you can find a nice CIB copy for, say, $25; Then you'll see that there'll be a sealed copy available for $32.99. When I'm not planning to play the game right away anyhow I usually spring for the new copy when it's not much more expensive. With time passing you might find that the sealed copy ends up being worth MSRP and the CIB one remaining mostly the same price. In a way it's an investment but not really. What it allows you to do is sell your sealed copy and just buy a CIB one or open the game if the difference isn't worth the effort. Of course like you said you can also double dip. Going out of your way to buy retro sealed stuff is an exceptionally expensive proposition these days so I don't see much of a point. Maybe if you have a favorite game you might want to have a sealed copy of it for display. For stuff that's available at retail I think it can make sense. Especially when it's part of a sale or clearance. I've got what I expect to be a controversial opinion, but one I think makes sense, is that at least as it relates to sealed products and sealed collecting whether or not the game inside works is mostly irrelevant. At certain point in time, with enough of a price hike, sealed product transitions from a video game into a collectible. For example nobody would buy a factory sealed copy of Chrono Trigger on the SNES today with the intention of opening and playing it. It's totally financially irresponsible. You'd lose hundreds/thousands of dollars. The value now is just in the condition of the seal and the box. That's why tangentially relating to the topic I also don't think that grading sealed games is an issue either. Who the heck is going to look at a $200 CIB game or a $2,000 sealed copy and choose the sealed one to play? Understanding of course that the sealed price is driven up by such factors to begin with, but say it weren't, you would still be a fool to open up a $300 game when a good CIB one is $200. Either way thank you for the video and interesting topic. Cheers.

[@richardbryan4264]

Well I like to buy used games and keep collector’s editions sealed that way I don’t have to deal with buying digital… but you’ve made some valid points. Thank you for sharing your perspective.

[@1230i0]

I absolutely agree! I just love to open up special editions and look through artbooks etc., because thats why I bought them. I dont feel like I really have the artbook, if I am not able to touch it,because its still packaged lol 😂

[@thanoskiriakidis1549]

Thanks for sharing another insightful KZbin broadcast. I totally echo your thoughts! The only exception of a game that I have kept sealed is the PS4 Trails from Zero which was a a great gift someone gave me for Christmas. As I had already purchased the Trails from Zero Switch version (due to its unique game play capabilities) the PS4 (Christmas Gift) ended up being a lone sealed copy in my collection.

[@battlereadyboricua]

Curating games is fun. I play and collect the ones I enjoy. Your videos are always informative and interesting. Keep them coming.

[@paralysis_demon_hunter]

Hi there! You have the same philosophy as I do when it comes to sealed collecting; I may have sealed games in my collection because I haven’t gotten to playing them but it’s not my intention to keep them sealed! I enjoy your content as I’m a new subscriber and plan to start watching some of your older videos to catch up! Thanks for the great, down to earth content! 😊

[@RacerX-]

This video should be in the top 10 of all video game players/collectors, amazing! I have been asked this question for decades and these are almost my exact responses. I am the same in that I only buy what I like and want to play but that has lead to a massive back log dating back to the 90s with the PS1 era. I still have a few PS1/PS2/PS3/PS4 and PS5 games that are sealed but only because i have yet to play them. People laugh and say why do you buy them if you never play them? It's called life and it sometimes gets in the way. I can't play games 24/7. I intend to play all my games and I will some day. The other reason is that with the games I buy, JRPG, Adventure, etc they tend to not be available for long or go WAY up in price so I have learned to buy them when they are out and cheap so I don't miss out on these great games. I can't believe this is the first time I have seen your channel. It's fantastic. New sub here for sure. Keep up the good work.

[@elisac6146]

Same I don’t keep ga,es sealed, specially on switch as I make sure I get the coins to exchange for a digital game or dlc as soon as I have enough. I love Special editions or collectors editions but I don’t buy them only cause I don’t want to run out of shelving space. Your display is looking beautiful ❤

[@that1hundyguy73]

As always a super awsome video. Glad to see that you are still enjoying your games. That makes me happy!

[@BrianFo]

Always enjoy your analysis, great job covering different angle to the situation. I personally don't keep anything sealed because I want to use them, but ultimately do what makes you happy :).

[@orbalology]

Thanks, I appreciate it!

[@basquessp]

Thanks for this great video. I'm currently collecting games for PS4, 5, Switch and 3DS and I didn't know about the cartridges issues. I will have a look on those articles.

[@83jaysonlee]

It’s good to know I’m not alone lol I have to open my games and display the collectors editions! Like you said, I’m not in it for the $$ just the love of the hobby. If I buy a game or especially a collector’s edition, then I love that game. I like to think people can see a piece of me in my collection and what kind of games I love.

[@Jeffdangit]

Love this chill style of video, great content! I’m guilty of collecting sealed games over the years that I still need to play but have bought digital for some of the same games when they digitally go on sale cheap.

[@slytlyimperfict]

hello again! I have both sealed and unsealed games. but yes I do intend to open the sealed games "one day." (These are great topics you bring up.) I do have copies of games (that bouble my collector versions) that I strictly buy cartridge/disc only, not complete. Great talking point, one day I when I'm ready to display all my games I will enjoy the nostalgia of opening all of them. my backlog will keep me well entertained in my retirement 😅

[@jessemcilvenna2980]

Wow, super cool! We have similar collecting modalities. I only buy games I intend to play someday. Games were meant to be played.

[@mik_oro]

Have been following you for a while now, but i totally agree with your viewpoint of how you're supposed to go about collecting things. It's also really weird to see your new Trails shelf all the time (in a positive way), looks nearly the same as mine..

[@two-nichegaming4482]

Initially, I only wanted to have sealed copies of games I adore just in case something happens to my Switch and the digital version I bought (day one or later on sale) is lost forever. The Switch has been out for much longer than expected so it makes sense that collectors adjust their acquisition methods, or even prioritize less important values they wouldn't normally care about. I have a used Japanese copy of Astral Chain and a sealed UK copy of Young Souls I would have liked to have as collectors editions because not only are they great games from those regions, the way the layered artwork on the transparent slip cover is integrated with the box art looks so nice (and deters the need for an aftermarket transparent collectors box). Not to throw shade on 'Wonderful 101' by Platinum Games but I hope more deserving titles receive lenticular slip covers. If I had that game I wouldn't mind parting with it to be graded and forever cased because I don't see myself ever playing that game, lol. A couple overpriced indie games I missed out on and PREY they get another physical release are: 'Darkwood' and 'Guns, Gore, and Canoli 1 & 2'. Congrats on that last banger video, to shadow drop another so soon - you spoil us :)

[@meowiies]

Your background is looking AMAZING! Love to see it 🎮

[@orbalology]

Thank you!! :)

[@OneUpWill]

Couldn’t agree more. I think my nostalgia and love for physical ‘stuff’ when getting a new game, whether it’s a special edition or actually has something included in the standard packaging, will always trump the idea of keeping it sealed solely for retaining value. I still have a lot of special editions still in the shrink wrap through! Let’s just call it delaying the unboxing experience, because you can only do it once. :) The shelf is looking awesome btw!

[@orbalology]

Thanks! I'm hoping to film a shelf tour this weekend :)

[@sanjithechef]

Such a well researched video about game preservation - and Loved the points on financial speculation - the video was so good! It’s nice to hear from another collector who enjoys what they collect and try to do so on a budget whenever possible. Sometimes I do end up seeing a physical copy of a game I own digitally come out later (indies like Hades) and I have to double dip lool but outside of that I definitely take your approach too

[@micahlynx]

Loving the background! Also I'm definitely in agreement with all your points - I always prefer to open my games even if I don't play them right away

[@orbalology]

Thank you! And glad to hear you also can relate haha.

[@pokeytrev]

In regards to game cart and disc lifespans, keep in mind that nothing lasts forever. This same rule applies to hard drives for digital purchases as hard drives go bad, but I like to think that a lot of the stuff we buy could outlive us if properly stored.

[@genefactor007]

Hi Emily! Okay, I just have to begin by saying you won me over the second I saw all of those Legend of Heroes figurines in the background. And... yep, there's Fire Emblem as well. Wait, we've talked about this before I think! Haha! I adore your collection, Emily. I've been picking up the First4Figures Breath of the Wild figures and, wow, they are incredible. Okay, getting back on topic. I totally understand and agree with you. Though I prefer buying digitally, if I were to double dip and buy a physical copy of a game, it would be to create a gorgeous display much like yours (like seriously, great job!). Collector's edition usually include wonderful goodies I simply must get my hands on and that means breaking the seal.

[@cyberangel9967]

Truly agree with the collecting apsect. My collection is very curated for playing my games and not based on investments.

[@JustTheGems]

I used to not open a game until I was ready to play it, but then I realized I was sort of getting caught in a loop where I was less likely to start a new game because it was sitting there, pristine and unopened, so I would buy more games and continue not to open them.😅 Now I just open every game the moment I get it. Feels much better to me. Loved hearing your thoughts, I think we're generally in the same collecting boat.

[@orbalology]

I can see how the longer one keeps a game sealed the more difficult it can be to actually get around to playing it. Glad you were able to pinpoint this with your collecting/playing habits!

[@DanielNewm]

Great video! Sometimes the only way to verify a game is not a used “reseal” is to open it, especially if you purchased the sealed game secondhand. I collected a lot of sealed games for GameCube, and finding aftermarket resealed games (even with the folded-edge factory seals) advertised as brand new was a real problem.

[@orbalology]

I've seen some people report discs completely missing, either due to quality control issues or resealed theft. But even more reason to open your games.

[@vorpal22]

!!! Thanks for telling us about PQ. It's the only themed console I have and one of the best games I played and I want to make sure the cart lasts a long time.

[@ChadOfStats]

I like to collect because I like the game or the collector's edition. Also I can't resist going through them either!

[@christophermonzon8883]

Your love for video games is inspiring

[@devins.2851]

You are collecting how the games were intended to be owned. The contents were made to be read, touch , experienced and enjoyed. Words for any speculative people out there. Collect for yourself, not for others. :)

[@TrinhNguyen-85]

I’m a sealed game collector 😂 but mostly because I like to know I own a brand new copy of something special or valuable. I have no intention of selling anything I buy and most likely everything I have will be passed on to my future kids or family and they can deal with it however they want. I’m not too worried about game preservation because there are so many ways to play these games. For modern games, I am fortunate enough that I can afford to keep one sealed and one opened or buy digital. For older games, there are so many ways to play these games whether it’s remakes, ports, or emulation and you can even play on original hardware like with everdrive for gba or jail breaking 3ds to play from sd cards. Because of the many “unofficial” ways to play all these retro games, I am allowed to keep a shelf of nice brand new/mint copies of my favorite games and this brings me satisfaction knowing that I own a copy of something that can’t really get much better condition-wise

[@orbalology]

That's a fine reason to have! Emulation has really made game preservation less of an issue on the individual level. Though it's nice to have ways to play older games on the OG hardware and such.

[@GameJunctionMedia]

I agree with a lot of your points! Not really a sealed collectors either. Great video!

[@eddy-from-tx1887]

I’m so glad I found this channel! I try if I can to buy a new game at different times of the year. From it being a year old or older on the cheap. But I always have to open them and have them installed to see it work! Keep the great content coming!

[@orbalology]

Thanks, I'm happy to hear you're enjoying the content :)

[@DdudeGames]

I agree that you brought up a lot of great points about sealed games. The only time I don't open a sealed game is if I haven't gotten around to playing it. But for the people who have complete sealed game collections, it is very impressive! I enjoy the videos keep up the excellent work!😄

[@orbalology]

Thank you!! 😄

[@RyoSabeya]

back then when we started buying cds , since the disc tray is very fragile and easy to break , I usually opened it up and double checked at the door in case somethin missing so I could just go right back in and make an exchange. Afterwards I spent time reading the manuals on my way home while I was on a bus, in a subway etc , or even at McDonalds because I couldn't wait to do it at home. As I got older, had more stuffs and less time for them, most of the time I left them sealed on the shelves. Every once in a while , some friend dropped by, looked at my stuff , asked me if I buy them for show . We laughed about it , but I don't want ppl to think I buy things for show . It has to do with some culture, right? I came from a place were ppl buy books to make themself look good . I don't want ppl to think I am them so I started to break the seal for everything I buy. I actually enjoy doing so for next time I have my games, movies ready to play. I only found out sealed item have become a thing these days.

[@omyguzman1796]

Hi! Nice video! My collection is around 50/50 sealed/open every week I enjoy 1 or 2 games but sometimes I get more games than I can play and some take the backlog for longer that I would want, its all fun having something new to unbox every now and then 😉 Happy collecting!! Loving the Ys shelf Falcom is ❤

[@Coolnintendoguy]

I could literally watch you talk about videogames all day😉

[@ILikePopCans]

thanks for the video and your detailed take on the subject. i never understood why someone would collect sealed games other then for financial reasons, it's fine if someone wants to do it but I don't view them as a video game collector but more of a speculator. also just saw the views on your last video and that's amazing

[@princessgamerxo7713]

You always have great video ideas! I corrupted my original Pokémon Blue game when I was younger so my copy is pretty much worthless now. At least I still have the original box and instructions lol. I always buy collectors editions to enjoy all of the cute goodies inside. Keeping them sealed is no fun to me 😊 Love that you have all the same Ys collectors editions as me! The Ys VIII CE is such a gem 💕💕💕

[@35infinite]

Have you tried replacing the internal battery? That might help.

[@leatherhidegaming]

@@35infinite it should cause removing it for a few minutes would delete any save data. Also you can use a USB to Game Boy cart device to delete the save if you have one.

[@orbalology]

Sorry to hear about your corrupted Pokémon game! Stinks when that happens and it's not just a simple battery fix :(

[@ryekun1212]

"not into this because of financial speculations" BEST THING IN THIS VIDEO. SUBBED

[@benssonx8347]

one of your videos popped up on my home page and im really enjoying your content! love listening to these while drawing

[@orbalology]

Thanks, glad to hear you're enjoying the content :)

[@kleev6576]

I've only seen your first 3 reasons and yup, that is exactly me too!!!

[@PowerSynopsis]

Cracking opening Special/Collector's Editions of games to look at the "things" is the entire reason to get them! Also, I think we have the same shelving.

[@Phil1Up_Collects]

Good video as always Em. 😀❤️I honestly don't really get the whole sealed collector thing. It can be quite expensive especially if you're going for older stuff. I do have a lot of games still though that I just never got around to opening. But there are some that I don't know if I can open just because the value is so incredibly high! Some of those would be Yo-kai Watch 3 on the 3DS and all of the Switch copies of Shantae sealed with the LRG slipbox. Other than that I have been feeling like I want to downgrade a lot of my collection and curate it more. Using what I can sell to purchase some of those games that meant more to me is a child/teen. Because like you said they did a much better job at preserving older games than they do now. It is quite concerning how the shelf life on modern games is so short. I guess it's making the whole emulation and hacking of your consoles and handhelds or picking up something like the steam deck a lot more tempting than ever before.

[@BespokeSlipp]

I love the Ys VIII PS5 edition, I have to save up and find that soon! Absolutely agree with pretty much everything you covered, especially as an avid stock trader myself. There’s something magical about opening and playing all the games in your collection, and I find it personally is a crucial part of the hobby. I really enjoy discussing the games when people visit and handing it to them to open up themselves, whether it be to read the manuals or check out the artwork. Nothing against those that like to keep their copies sealed though 😃

[@douglassmith9445]

Kinda strange but it took me a while to find ys 8 for ps5. It sold out quickly at best buy and from my experience, only select gamestops have had it. Considering it just came out at the end of last year on ps5, this has been frustrating to try and find.

[@BespokeSlipp]

@@douglassmith9445 That’s super annoying. It’s weird stock wasn’t more plentiful - I really think companies should do more legwork and track demand for each region. They’d end up making more money, and making the fans happier!

[@millasgameroom]

definitely agree with this. Your financial section in particular is on point. for building wealth, people definitely should look elsewhere instead of video games. Especially given how many games from larger companies in particular are extremely common and not even complete on disc / cart.

[@orbalology]

Thanks, Milla! I thought it was prudent to mention these things, I see too many folks glossing over these realities on YT unfortunately.

[@lioneldelorme7481]

Greetings from Canada. Subscribed. I'm also one who doesn't keep things sealed. I particularly enjoy opening my collector editions, though if the box allows it, I will leave a portion of the shrink wrap on as a sort of "protective wrap" from scuffs and other things (kids fingers, cat hair, etc). I also am one who doesn't do reselling, and since 2016, I don't trade in any of my games either. If I purchase a game, it's here to stay.

[@TheNintendoWizrad]

I'm going for a complete 3ds game collection. It's weird buying every game out there but it's a fun hunt. But yeah the value of my collection is very high. I can't deny saying that collecting is definitely providing value.

[@dannys1392]

Hey there, awesome collection you have! I just came across your channel and I immediately subscribed because so many of my buddies give me crap for opening up all my sealed games lol the argument I always give is "why NOT buy a sealed game to open it up and enjoy it?? Also like you, I'm not collecting for a financial purpose. I purchase games, action figures and anything in between to personally enjoy. Anywho, great content and keep it up.

[@scoutisabelle]

I collect JRPGs, but my collection only includes games I want to play, so they all get opened. Games are fun, not investments to me, but I respect how everyone collects.

[@JimBob-vg2og]

Holy cow 🐮 I have quite a few sealed games that that is good for thought. I have been selling some, it’s a gradual process. Thanks for the vid. You’re good presenter

[@orbalology]

Thanks, I appreciate it!

[@carlosrodriguez2233]

I always look forward to your videos, sometimes they make my day (:

[@orbalology]

Thanks for saying so, your comment made my day :)

[@DieselJT]

Agreed 100 percent! I like to enjoy my games, not stare at them on a bookcase. That being said I do have lots of unopened games, but only because I haven't gotten to them yet.

[@Transientimage]

Yeah not to knock anyone, but I buy games to play them. I like having the physical totem and opening it and placing it into the console is just part of the process for me. I can't have a digital games library because my brain just can't remember what I have and even with spreadsheets I need to see that physical item to remind myself and register that "Oh yeah I have this game. I think I will play it now." As I get older I socialize less and less and spend more time with my wife in our house and I wind up just enjoying my hobbies. So physical game collecting is one of the joys in my life and even just opening them up to read some of the manuals (games that do actually have manuals) or looking at the inner cover art is sometimes all I need to enjoy a particular game, even if it's just for a moment without playing it. Great video!

[@orbalology]

There really is something special about owning games you love physically. And thanks!

[@GarryMah85]

I'm also someone who buy special/collector edition for my own passion, and not for financial reason. I only leave them seal (until I decide to play them one day) when it is the standard edition, as these days they don't even come with a manual. I'm always excited to see whats inside those special/collector edition.

[@luisarriaga774]

Great video, I didn't know about sealed games getting corrupted. It is a bit sad to thing about that the electronic media is ephemeral. But I guess all things come to and end.

[@Newtination]

So - I agree with you mostly, I either open right away or in the case of CEs I open when I get time for them. I have one exception from the past when I purchased my Wii U in 2017, I instantly CFW'd it. But, I also bought every (yes, all ~170 games by 2019) and kept the sealed and just played them off the SSD. I kinda regret it back in the day, and was going to either pop them all open or sell them - but now with the e-shop closure, I'm kind of glad I have a full ESRB set + the few PAL exclusives sealed. I still dk what to do with them, though lol.

[@MaMiller]

I tend to keep my games sealed until I play them. I do sometimes sell sealed games if it allows me to buy a couple of open or used games to replace it. I've used this to build most of my handheld gaming collection on a budget. Really enjoying your channel and sound advice on game collecting and RPGs as well

[@orbalology]

Thank you, I appreciate it!

[@promero14]

I'm glad youtube recommended your channel

[@orbalology]

Welcome!! :)