Video Game Collecting Burnout

I discuss why people may be experiencing video game collecting burnout and go over some tips and things I personally do to prevent it from happening to me.
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[@PeteDorr]

Hey guys, I just made a brand new second channel dedicated to my stream VOD's (so full game playthroughs, speedruns & more!) Subscribe to it here: bit.ly/2SzNlZs Thanks!

[@redxix88]

I had a collecting fase in my early 20's, but it wasn't healthy for me. I did it to fill an emotional void that I had at the time. Buying rare games was exciting and kept the focus away from the issues I had. Now, I'm only interested in playing great games and I'm enjoying the hobby more than ever!

[@Jmccre19]

I think I did the same, eventually I kind of realised I just had shelves of stuff I didn't actually care about. I kept the games that meant something to me and sold the rest.

[@dAda313]

Yes... for me as well. Game hunting and reselling stuff i didn't want to buy other games i wanted to have etc was a real blessing... It kept my mind & soul busy at tough timez man......

[@Hijynx87]

I recently started collecting ps3 and now I just started psp. I'm only buying games I would play, unless I find a bundle that has the random sports or racing title... I'll just keep it.

[@targetrender9529]

Exactly. My collecting was a void filler to occupy my time and deflect mental health issues.

[@TheWibachinski]

The first reason is also true for books, movies, and records too.

[@PreciousCargo1]

You write for Dr.Seuss....

[@TheBodybuilderChris]

Not true. The video game collecting community is always “hunting” where there life revolves around it. Going to swap meets, goodwill, and local antique shops most of their time. I have tons of friends who collect books and they are a much more calm and mature audience. They don’t go out looking or “hunting” and actually take the time to read the book and if they like it they keep it, if not they sell it or donate it. The video game community seems to be more of a hoarding group. Usually never play any of the games they have and use their most expensive game as a bragging tool. If anything they read up more about the game from message boards or KZbin than actually playing it

[@mck7646]

@@jacobj3236 She won't let you? You're the man, lay down the law.

[@Nicomanism]

@@TheBodybuilderChris Today's video game collecting community is labeled as a hoarding group. 2020 truly showed every single wannabe to participate in this trend because of Covid-19. Yes; majority of them never play nor beat whatever game he she purchased. It is similar to the music, comic book and toy collecting community. As for books, I only buy books I enjoy to read and debate to keep it or sell it. For games, I buy only games I will play, beat, and go back to time to time. Theres too many games to pick that not everyone has the time to beat 1,000+ games of whatever game they purchased. Plus, the wannabes in the video game collecting that hoard a bunch of games and never bother to enjoy it: are simply ruining the chance for someone to own that copy and play it. Most of them are immature, cocky, and self-absorbed into their plastic discs. Its unfortunate and depressing that thats the life these people like, who are into today's video game collecting community.

[@jpined14]

It took me a while to realize I’m not a collector per se. I love my niche hobbies but I am very selective on what stays and what goes. It’s not so much about the money but realizing I can do other activities (like vacations) with all that money that would otherwise go to just occupy space with nice things.

[@NicktheLP]

Also, beyond your love of games, I think diversifying how you enjoy them is key to not getting burnout: you play, collect, stream, and produce videos. That is awesome, but I still recommend you dabble in other hobbies/interests. While my one true passion is still gaming, it’s great to develop different skills and interests and meeting different kinds of people along the way. Especially getting into a sport, since it provides you with a fun way to exercise. There’s no right or wrong way to live your life of course, but I personally think you get more out of life when you spend 85% of your time with your passion and maybe 3% with 5 other things, rather than 99% of your time with your passion. That 14% lost for gaming is far less significant than what you’ll gain with those other interests, skills, and interactions.

[@stupidbluebird]

I go through periods where I don't buy games for a bit but we all put our hobbies aside occasionally

[@Mjblazer84]

What are your thoughts on trying to appreciate games like you did when you were a kid? With a disposable income, I find it's so easy to amass a huge collection of games esp. with knowing how to wait for sales, but there's so much novelty lost. It's hard to appreciate every game because you're not forced to wait for Christmas or your birthday or having to save money forever to afford one. I find myself always thinking about this and find it challenging.

[@buckchuckgaming597]

I still have my collection but I’ve stopped collecting retro due to the crazy prices, but mainly because I’m the sole income earner for my family (wife and daughter). I still occasionally buy new games but I have to really want them and have time to play them.

[@Hijynx87]

Nowadays psp/ps3/360 are pretty cost effective to collect for right now.

[@buckchuckgaming597]

Hijynx87 absolutely! Now is the perfect time to collect for that era. I feel like it’s just a generational thing. The people who were kids during the PS2/GC/Xbox era are now adults with disposable income chasing down childhood nostalgia which is driving up the prices for that generation. It’s happened with every generation before. Give it about 5-10 years and the 360/Wii/PS3 era will skyrocket too.

[@Daniel-it1dp]

@@buckchuckgaming597 I have a feeling it won't even be that long for the 360/Wii/PS3 era. Thankfully I got most of what i wanted on 360 at the time save for Japanese exclusives. PS3 and Wii on the other hand I have much smaller collections but I might just live with that.

[@tsai197]

I'm so glad I stopped collecting, there was a lot of FOMO with collecting, collector's edition or old games you really don't need, but you always felt like you had to get, because you're a "collector", and there's anxiety attached to that. I've sold all my games and statues (I had expensive statues, Hot Toys, large statues). I've also played less games now, but still play mostly retro games on Switch. All my time goes into working, spending time with gf at her own house, food, clothings etc.

[@TheBodybuilderChris]

Good move bro. You did the right thing and applaud you. I was once in your position, sold my collection for like 5k and focused more on my life around me (family, friends, events, travel)

[@techyin326]

same!

[@OutCold9te6]

My initial reaction to the title was that this is a video on the Burnout series.

[@KeithKillingly]

lmao

[@dimensiongamer534]

Curation of your collection is soo important to keep in mind, I feel miles better knowing I am collecting the games that matter to me the most over just going for complete ones, great video Pete!

[@sadgamershow2273]

I've implemented a system where I take a game from the tail end of my collection that I most likely will never play again and I list it on ebay and earmark it to purchase a particular game with the money I get for it. It's exciting to pack up a game, ship it then immediately purchase the game that I want. It keeps things fresh and keeps me from buying too much to play. Stagnant games that you see on your shelf for years can burn you out.

[@TheHorrorGeek]

Yes! I've been collecting for over 20 years now -- and the thing that has kept it fun for me (I have about 2,000 games in my collection) is that I buy stuff I would like to play. I could go out and double or triple the size of my collection buying lots and whatnot, but why? For me, the joy of my collection is that it's all stuff I love. And at the end of the day, that's what collecting is about -- having things you like that mean something to you, not just shelves of stuff to increase a number.

[@TheBodybuilderChris]

You’re the most generous and unique collector out there. The fact that you pass knowledge on how to get away from burn outs, reasons on why people stop collecting, and helping others find good deals is the nicest thing man. Most collectors are all in for themselves with bragging and owning rare games. Kudos

[@willywampa84]

Some very excellent points. I enjoy collecting games, but it has always been so difficult to find things that I was interested in, making it a little disappointing. Now, I am always keeping my eyes open for different things like toys, vinyl records, vintage licensed cake pans, vintage pyrex cookware, and other things. I always generally go out to thrifts and such with my wife and kids and we are all looking for these things which makes it more fun, in my opinion... everyone usually ends up with something the enjoy!

[@EyedOmally]

Love your vids Pete. One of the first youtubers i started watching almost a decade ago

[@zz-gm6le]

Great video Pete. I recently got back into the hobby and I’ve been doing exactly what you suggested. I have sold hundreds of games and some systems that I never intend on playing and it does feel freeing. Now I can focus on collecting what I really want.

[@The90sGamingGuy]

When i first started to re-collect the video games i had when i was a child it was done out of my passion for video games. I use to just buy video games, music CD's, records to just show on my channel in the past. I have sold off most of that fluff in my collection but have some laying around that i need to get rid of. After buying flash carts for most of my retro video game systems i rarely buy retro video games. Now before i buy or order something i make sure I like it beforehand that way i don't waste time, money and space on an item im not going to enjoy. Now I'm back to collecting video games and playing them for the passion i have for the hobby its enjoyable to me.

[@SBXStorm431]

I focused on PS3 collecting for a year or 2 and eventually got pretty much every game I was after. Great console!

[@nfsrival1499]

Love ps3 collecting. Og xbox and ps3 are my main systems, cheap and awesome games. Ps3 will propabpy go up in price since emulation is next to impossible

[@vonfragyou]

you get tired of hobbies when you start feeling the loop of hunting acquiring and it all feels the same. Don't sell it, box it up take a break until the but comes back to play/ hunt.

[@cramegg]

Horrible advice

[@washedjp1651]

cramegg no not really

[@markjansen9886]

Thank you so much for this video . It clarified so many things in my collecting struggles. True fan Pete 🙌 have always and will always appreciate your content dude 👍♥️

[@hiphopopautumus]

When I was a kid I used to collect rocks, then it was seashells, then it was bottles (for some reason). It was just a thing I did- collected. I never sold my video games, but I never collected either. That was, until I saw your vids what must be over a decade ago. I just remember the most transcendental “YES” going off in my little kid brain. I’ll keep it short because I’m sure you’ve read it before- but thanks for being passionate Pete!! Today I have enough experience and perspective to really appreciate the words (and truth) of burnout. Still happy with the hobby, but who knows what the future will bring!

[@bioboost12]

Nearly everything you talked about I was doing. I narrowed it down to the MAIN 2 systems I collect for with a couple more that I buy games here and there. PC engine and saturn are the main 2 with ps1 and ps2 as the others. I looked at the entire list of PC engine games, watched tons of videos and memorized all the ones I plan On buying...pc engine is pretty damn expensive but Im very deep into the collection now so no going back. I did own a turbografx when I was a kid ( I didnt know anyone else who had one ) and I was always Interested in the games we didnt get but as I got older in the past 5 years I started since It was pretty pricey.

[@benaiahburns4046]

I honestly never felt overwhelmed. I never had many games as a child, and I never had over 60 games before 1997. However, in 1997 on Christmas day, I decided to collect, and I have never looked back. At the time, I didn't know of anyone collecting, much less for every console, which I decided to do. At the time, I didn't have a lot of money, and the collection took a while to take off, but eventually, the collection did begin to grow. Today, I have over 13,000 games, and every console released in the US besides the Entex Adventurevision and I honestly never want to go back.

[@khanthevideogamehunter2946]

Your channel has been around for ever I collect video games on my channel. The hobby is expensive. I kind of have felt the burn out before. But I cant stop.

[@WilSan74]

I am a “sloth” collector. No I don’t collect sloths, I just collect very slowly. Only shop every couple of months and only pick up a few games at a time. Five years and I still enjoy it. Collecting should be one of the things you do, not the only thing you do (to avoid burnout).

[@Warbob11]

Easiest way for me to not get burned out only collect what I will play. Been finished collecting for four years, though atm i'm eyeing a Japanese 3DO system since I want too play one again. Luckily the system is region free and the power connection is the same no step down needed. Nice video Pete, we all have that happen to us eventually. Whenever I get to a point where some games or a system I will never play I trade/sell the games/systems so I can get it to someone who will play it and use that money for something else.

[@Antnie]

Great video Pete, over the last 5 years I’ve downsized my game collection to just what I felt I’d ever actually play. I don’t consider myself an active game collector, but I do still have my collection. I decided to take my record collecting in a different path than I did with gaming. I only buy records that I love, no fillers or space wasters on my record shelf. With cameras, which is my main passion, it feels so good downsizing camera gear and have just 2-5 great lenses or cameras. Love ya Pete, you know I started my channel after seeing yours over 10 years ago.

[@jakemcelroy954]

1:40 I don't know, Pete. The peeps over on 4chan yell at me if I don't play with my toys.

[@stupidbluebird]

i have never once played with my figma or gunpla, do people really do that?

[@zemaduvant8676]

I specifically subset collect for rpgs only, at this time i am only collecting for the ps2.

[@IHaveArrived]

I've been doing the same for the last couple years. I'm currently at 46 ps2 rpgs.

[@BenSchmerler]

Thanks for making a topic about this. You talked about just going on eBay, and how that can feel perhaps a bit hollow. I find that you have to enjoy the "process" of collecting, whether that be digging through stuff at a thrift store, or driving around fleas/yard sales, or whatever it is. A lot of my fondest moments collecting were thinking about the circumstances when I found that one amazing deal or unique item I didn't expect. That stays with you more than the game itself often times.

[@rolandjakobsson5162]

Personally, I feel the constant price increase for retro games is incredibly stressful. I feel that if I don't get that game now, it will be way more expensive further down the line, and that sometimes means I overspend to "save" that money later. My bizarre behaviour could be avoided if I knew I could pick up that game for (roughly) the same price a couple of years later... Luckly I'm only 60 games away from a complete Mega Drive collection so I can buy some games every now and then and still feel like I'm making progress.

[@interghost]

That was really well put Pete. Never feel bad for selling your collection. I have bought and sold off many a collection over the years. As soon as the prices get too high, andIm not playing the games I sell them. For me I like the cheap and fun pick up and play games. Finding games Ive never heard of. Just enjoying the game for an hour or so. If that means a game is 80-90-100 £ then I am out. It is a lot to do with the frill of the hunt. But those days have gone. Way too many people scooping up ALL games from shops and car boot sales etc. And you never find stuff now, unless you are just in the right place at the right time. Its a shame as it was fun. But I still pick up a few bits now and then. For me ROM gaming and current gaming is the way to go these days. Switch is where its at for me.

[@MA_KA_PA_TIE]

Yupppp there is lots of pressure to play your collection. Especially from people who see it in person. I look at it as games on a shelf represent future fun that can be had at anytime on a whim. Thats why I think its really important to keep your systems all ready to go at anytime.

[@blackmagebruce]

Just found your channel and it’s easily become one of my favorites, keep up the good work man

[@leehyatt76]

Super helpful video. After moving for the first time after ballooning my collection, I definitely started to feel the guilt hit me. You’re the man, Pete. Thanks so much.

[@megamob5834]

Nostalgia is a powerful drug. (Saying this as a collector of comics and games) burn out is a part of it. Which is why I only buy games that I will play and beat before buying new ones and make a point to read all the comics I buy (with some exceptions). Keeps me from amassing too much and not appreciating what I have.

[@newgameaaaa]

I agree with you about knowing why you collect games. I collect games that I plan on playing which is a lot because I have kept up the research with games.

[@alyx4436]

I clicked on this video again becasue I have just gotten back into collecting after experiencing burnout. I did not get burnout for playing games, I kind of got really disheartened since covid because prices already were not great but covid just added insult to injury. At first I focused on modern stuff just to play because i basically threw my toys out of the pram like a big man baby. Then after a while I just began apprecieating what I had. Then I started playing retro stuff again and did some tweaks to my setup to make it easier to jump into a game. Then i did exactly what you did and flogged off a bunch of my NES filler games and left my favs. Consolidation is amazing, it is liberating. You just don't miss the stuff if you pick right. Anyway, now I am back into collecting after just realising that the prices going up means I just have to be slower and more strategic. A big strategy is that I am saving up extra for my trip to Japan that is coming up where I will spend a day or two gamehunting for Saturn Imports.

[@retrogamer5536]

The older I get, the less stuff I want to own. I sold my entire game collection except for my PS2. It has a huge library of great games, plays PS1 games, and there are many compilations of older systems, arcade games, and pinball. Everything I want on one console and I don't have all the clutter of other systems, controllers, and cables. There are more than enough games on the PS2 to last my lifetime.

[@cfalcon07]

I've just focused on games I actually played as a kid that I no longer have or cib. A lot less stressful for retro collecting. For modern games, if I really enjoyed the game I keep it. Otherwise I sell it off for a new game. I respect your passion though. You're right, you don't show off your stuff like others just for bragging rights. A real collector

[@broadnerdmike6450]

Working from home I began selling everything off. I’d been on the fence for a year or so. About half the money will probably used for something more practical down the road. The other half I’ve spent on a few other collectibles and a lot of FPGA hardware and Everdrives. The result? I actually play more games now. It’s all just more convenient and since it takes up far less space, I’ve relieved most of that pressure you mentioned.

[@numberoneappgames]

I'm gonna be real for a minute. Personally I started game collecting in 2013 because I wanted a new hobby. I started with KZbin and watched your channel and channels like the game chasers, pat the NESPunk, tight white, scotts channel the video game resellers, and grimsie42. I started to collect and I got a bunch of games going to goodwill, Craigslist, like 1 yard sale. I learned that after I got a lot of the games I wanted that there were some that I didn't get in the wild that I wanted real bad. So I took a break and enjoyed the games I got and now I feel I want to start again but on the cheap so I can take my time. One thing a lot of you KZbin taught me is that this hobby is supposed to be fun if it isn't then take a break and that if you don't have to pay retail then don't because there is always a better deal in the wild. Thanks Pete Dorr for being an awesome guide into game collecting.

[@realprotomike]

I just watched Kenz Games Collection where he was speaking about now having 900 games and what that means for his "addiction" to collecting. I watched Pete's video now too. So great, really love these takes on modern day retro game collecting.

[@spanky812]

Never considered myself a collector until recently when i went into all my old boxes and found 60 percent of my collection, then i hit everyone i ever lent a game to to get the remainder. Now i have over 150 combimed games for various systems all the way back to genesis. Now to fill out the collection i re buy games ive losr over the years, and things ive always wanted. Thanks for the awesome vids pete, good tips

[@Hijynx87]

Uh oh, you've tasted the blood!

[@rafasreds5324]

I have recently started collecting limited run limited number games, have streets of rage 4 collectors edition and pixel ripped 1989 limited edition on the way, only because I like physical copys and the print numbers are only 1500. Have been collecting from 1985 to today and hope to leave the lot for my two daughters to enjoy or sell. One thing I would recommend to anyone with a large collection is insurance cover and also document and list your collection in case of theft or damage. The Aussie guy THE LAST GAMER has the dream collection which covers retro, modern and arcade, he is also in the Guinness book of Records as the largest videogame collection in the world.

[@mitchyz101]

I collect consoles and games that fascinates me and leave the rest. Its better that way for your mental health as you don't become overwhelmed. Great video thanks

[@rfigueroa1247]

What’s crazy is I went to playing video games as a hobby to collecting in the early 00’s from seeing the backside of the tips n tricks magazines. Throughout the years I had a decent collection but sometimes I would sell what I have and rebuilt a collection a few times but, I honestly don’t want to collect like that anymore or just get flashcarts. No bullshit I used to watch your videos when I was like 15 but I never really had the finances back then to buy video games all that much. Throughout the years I would get games from my parents or when I got an adult job I would look for deals on eBay/Craigslist or fix and flip consoles or games for other people’s collections and tbh. I get more satisfaction giving consoles a new home that been deemed as broken or not working plus games

[@tedlogan5628]

First one of your videos i've stumbled across, and i'm glad i did. Your video was very insightful and articulate on the matter. So many good reasons that prevent us from enjoying something long term..(financial, guilt, time, family, etc).

[@BlueElectricBunny]

You make alot of really good points. For me as a "collector" I have always been about curating any library I have. From games to movies. Sometimes people can get caught up in a moment as well. When things are new it's easy to be excited. I have enjoyed your channel for years now 😁

[@Neffets]

I stopped buying games to collect a couple years ago. Sold everything that ultimately meant nothing to me. Now I have about 500 games left. About 400 of them I’ve never beat or even played. So that is my mission now to at least play them all and hopefully beating them all at some point.

[@kryptikk9716]

I could listen to this guy all day long just saying collection.. collection..

[@Salazarnaruto52]

I remember awhile ago you said you might do a top 10 favorite games of all time video. I would love to see that one day :)

[@rjbse]

I never had the collector mindset, but was always against buying digital games. However as I grew up, I realized that due to my location I am most likely never going to be able to sell my games. So I don't fuss much on buying digital now. Now as a salaried employee, I try my best to look for short story focused games because I feel they respect my time and still get entertained.

[@Bobbiitty]

This is great advice. I'm 23 and I've been a lifelong gamer but didn't start actively collecting till 2017, that was the last time I sold a game to GameStop and I vowed never to do it again. My goal was to eventually collect back all the PS1, PS2, GBA, and Xbox 360 games id been selling off over the years. I also bought a Wii u because i never owned a Wii and figured I could get 2 whole generations worth of games through this one system (plus tons of older games through virtual console). The way I collect is I usually buy one decent lot when I first get a system so I can start out with a few titles then slowly try to find good deals on individual or maybe 2-4 game lots. Right now I'm currently collecting for 3DS and PS4.

[@Pumaman86]

Thanks for the great advice Pete. The point you made about having a purpose when collecting is crucial. I now stick to games I have major nostalgia for or ones I'm really interested in. Keeping the collection boiled down to titles/consoles that have a personal sense of meaning really helps.

[@brandoncreecy7379]

I can’t wait until the ps5 comes out, everybody’s going to spend their hard earned cash on one while I’m going to be stacking up on the discounted ps4 games that I want. Lol 😂

[@brandoncreecy7379]

Lynchology101 nice 👍🏾

[@mck7646]

What's the projected sales on those? I feel like many will be passing on that, at least for a long while. Current gen is still so good.

[@MA_KA_PA_TIE]

Yeh its approaching prime time for cheap PS4. A year or 2 ago was prime time for 360. Amazing how the prices have gotten silly.

[@GameRumble]

Game collecting especially retro collecting is just insanely expensive nowadays. So like you said, it's reqlly important that you stay focused on your collection. I only collect games I played and really liked on the PS1 for example. I also keep a list of games I'm actually interested in (especially for newer consoles like PS4) so I don't buy just because something is on sale, but something is on sale and it's on my list. 👍

[@CoffinSkate]

I was just thinking about this and I immediately had to come back to this video so I could ask you a question. So, nowadays, when you see or hear about a game and it interests you, you can go on the internet and research said game. You can look at trailers, reviews, look at some gameplay, and if it looks like something you would enjoy, you can go out and buy a copy of it. Thus playing it and seeing if it was worth your time and investment. However, prior, there was no internet. You were stuck to finding out about a game through magazines. If you couldn't afford magazines, you had no idea when a game was coming out, so you would generally go into a store and buy a game knowing absolutely nothing about just because the box art looks cool. Basically what I am asking is, do you miss the pre-internet days where you would buy a game not knowing anything about it because the box art looked cool, or do you prefer being able to research a game before you go out and buy it like nowadays?

[@YukeWeiss]

I've felt this a lot during 2020 as I look at all the various collections I've accumulated and what I want out of these collections.

[@lostoverlord]

Awesome video man. I have been watching you since highschool, I really enjoyed watching your recent pickups and collection tours. I guess I've never experienced burnout because I only choose what I want to play and it gradually grew for 15 years. I'm weird though, I cant explain it. I really enjoy collecting games to put on my shelf and knowing that I have that cool game, even if I dont play it right away. I love the thought of it being around when ever I want to play it. I never think about the actually value of my collection in terms of selling it one day. This is probably because I have a son and hope that he will enjoy my collection and try out all of the games I owned. Great video!

[@DrewD9]

Great video bud! I just started collecting for SNES and Genesis. I have a lot of nostalgia for SNES because I had it as a child and I didn’t have Genesis so I’m excited to play those games for the first time. It really sucks that a lot of my favorite games (chrono trigger, ff3 etc) are super expensive but it makes me want to try to find different games that I’ll love as well!

[@scoutisabelle]

I burned out a couple of years ago, sold all the games I didn’t play or won’t play again, and made a lot of money. Don’t regret it at all and still have a collection of games that are my favorites. If I get the urge to play a game I sold, I’ll buy it or emulate it.

[@Dusty_B]

Love that you've been putting out all these KZbin vids lately. Anyways you definitely nailed it Pete. At one point I was collecting for too much. SNES, NES, Famicom, DS, PS1-3, PSP, Dreamcast, etc etc etc. It got to be too much. I wasn't playing them very much and it was getting expensive. Not to mention the dreaded "how big is your backlog" question. I cut my collection down to 2/3 and sold off some systems completely. After that I focused on Vita (let's not talk about Vita prices right now though 😭) and only for handhelds and handheld games that I really want to play. Focusing on portables made it all fun again. Also those Ebay streams are killer! Everybody who reads this wall of text make sure you check them out. It's a chill vibe and nobody minds us lurkers just sitting back and enjoying which is awesome.

[@hypersonic1337]

You said it yourself, curation is where you make it last long. I curbed plenty of potentially bad collecting habits years ago when I was in high school and started to get steady income afterwards. I'm 29 now and keeping things wise and budgeting and staying focused on my own goals as a collector has kept it so I never get tired, I never feel like I have too much, I always trim a little fat here and there where I feel I can and it keeps things fun. Been at it for almost 20 years at this point. Unless there's a life emergency, I don't see a reason I'll stop completely but I am at a point where I have most older things I'd want in hard copy form so at this point it'd just be keeping up with new stuff. Always good perspectives to share though. I lurk plenty of collection/buy/sell/trade groups on facebook and elsewhere and there's so many people that I feel are buying with no purpose and are just in it for the money or as a status symbol. I won't judge them but I just don't see the hobby lasting long for them. Good topic to discuss for sure man

[@RobertSmith-jw7qx]

Been watching your videos since 2008 when I was 13 Pete! I am now 25 and love seeing the new videos. Great to see that face again :)

[@ReyZar666]

i have been collecting for almost 5 years, now, and i have "burnout" the first 1-2 years, after starting, over buying stuff, and then another "burnout" when i try to collect for psvita, i realize it was way to much for me atm, i was collection everything from n64, to wiiu and from gmeboy to 3ds/psp, and it was waaay to much for me adding another console line up to all this, so i end up selling my psvita with all the games i got, and just move on to ps4

[@jedimaster12100]

This was a great video. I am in the process of downsizing my collection. I ended up collecting too much because I saw too many "hidden gems" videos and realized I don't really like some of those games I bought. I bought pretty much everything I wanted for the Wii, Wii U, PSP, and PS3. I just have to decide what I really want to keep.

[@Sc0pee]

Finland's minister of internal affairs, Maria Ohisalo (35) is a retro game collector and an avid gamer. Not only that but she's also beautiful and intelligent. She's a true inspiration!

[@itsnouse-yourswillbeastill2562]

Having flashcarts and the original console is enough for me. I don't have the money to buy games online and the only flea market near me is only during the summer which has been postponed/shut down by the pandemic.

[@harrisonkunneman9952]

Honestly tho this pandemic has screwed everyone over, even the nichest of hobbies

[@retrorick]

great thoughts....ive sold alot of my collection multiple times and bought them back. My favorite part is the thrill of the hunt!

[@GingerGaiden]

I'm in that same boat where when I was like 16 I wanted a room just like Pete's but as I grew older I realized it just wasn't for me. I still play a ton of games, but I went from wanting everything hard copy to wanting a digital ps5

[@larryinc64]

You said it in the video but I think a key to collecting long term is having a goal or purpose. I was more into buying up whatever cheep game I could that looked interesting, skipping most sports, 1v1 fighters, and other genres I have no interest too. But even if most I don't ever intend on beating, I love being able to grab a weird game off the shelf and play for a bit, even if it kinda sucks. I like having a little of everything, and have examples of what something from the past was like. I also now am limiting myself to only mostly buy stuff from conventions or local stores, as at least there the trill of the hunt is maintained and if I don't find what I'm looking for, oh well. One thing that makes me less 'proud' of my complete Smash amiibo set is, even though it looks cool it's the same as every other complete set. I always found the smaller ones where people bought favs and mains more interesting to look at.

[@hajimethefool]

I relate a lot to the things you said. I spent the last 10 years collecting and spending everyday of my life researching new games, making videos of obscure easter eggs, etc.. It's my passion.

[@Ejlectronics6]

Just to add onto what you said at the end of your video. I recently got into collecting vinyl records and VGM records to an extent, and I totally agree that you should collect because you love it. I always have to sway myself away from certain limited editions of VGM for games I just don't really like at all, but the instictiveness of "Oh, it's limited edition! I gotta buy it" is really hard to fight. I feel like there's collecting what you love and just being a collector to have everything. Kind of unrelated, but are there any UK communities of game/merch collectors? I'm trying to get rid of some gaming related items that are unusual to a degree.

[@Cosanplayprops]

The main focus here is have a plan before you start. I said I was having all consoles, but I dropped the Neo Geo for the mini because games for the console are way too much. I also stopped collecting for certain consoles and said I'm done move on. I'll still buy games if there cheap, If I don't want them I flip then I'm also a reseller so buying games and collections help me buy the games I do want to play. Get goals and limits and just know when to stop.

[@deanos872]

Always been a gamer, but only started collecting in the past year. Your videos are really helpful and intresting

[@the.bloodless.one1312]

For me, what I want to play next is always at the core of my collecting. Sometimes I build up a little backlog if I buy too much in a row but then I just slow down till I clear out my backlog a little. That’s always worked out for me.

[@RE-LOOIE]

"The last thing you want to do is to [collect] as some sort of status symbol. Don't just collect because of the comments/likes you'll get on your Twitter or Instagram photos. Do it because you want to do it." Some of the wisest words you could ever impart, Pete! For so long I felt this urge, almost need or requirement, to collect the Atlus and NIS RPGs, NES and Super Nintendo games, and amass this huge collection. As you probably know, I've finally let that go, sold off the "filler" and have pursued a collection that's entirely unique to me. Even if that mostly equates to Disney platformers on PS1/2, licensed games I enjoyed growing up, and obscure 3D platformers. Well, that's okay because when I look at my shelf I actually feel proud of the games I own. Another outstanding video, my friend!

[@Gentenstation]

I've become very picky on what I buy. I used to shoot for complete game series just because they were popular, even if they weren't a genre I normally play. These days I enjoy trimming back my wish list to games that I absolutely must play. And I've also made an effort to finish games now, which has slowed down my buying since my backlog is huge.

[@EmanueleMatricardi]

Another point of discussion could be the reasons for which we don't sell our collection.. in my opinion many people think "I would like ti sell my collection (or part of It) but if its value grows up in the next future? It would be disappointing.. I could regret It.. Better keep It a bit longer" ... And they never sell.. sometimes It happens also to me :)

[@beatertechbeatertech2893]

Wholeheartedly agree with your outlook on collecting games! It's quite easy to get caught up in the thrill of finding and buying games only to be stored away and never played. Absolutely solid advice for new collectors and old, more videos like this please ! . Here is a question for you, Having spent a lot of time playing games have you noticed any health issues like back pain or joint pain ? if so how do you manage it ? Thanks again Thumbs up. !

[@techyin326]

collected around 2003-2014, eventually i felt like i have achieved my goal in collecting all the games i wanted to own on each gaming system, so eventually i had this realization that i no longer need this collection since its going to just sit there collecting dust, and never to be played again....sure i could do it, but you only have one life and honestly cant see myself wasting my good young years, and wasting money on something that i will play once and never to be seen again...this diffenetly shifted my opinion on renting and owning digital versus owning and having it in hard copy.....scalpers, was somewhat a reason, even though it didn't interfere my collecting, (since back then it was still very, very cheap to afford games). but yea, do i regret selling my collection? yes and no, yes because i do wish i could play some games i did love playing(mostly Nintendo) but no because ever since i sold it, i never had the urge to come back..ah well

[@ConsoleCrashers]

Hey Pete, as you know, I've been collecting almost just as long as you have and I can tell you, there are times where you'll start questioning the things you collect, trying to decide whether or not it fits not only your collection but your personality and tastes as you grow older... Feeling burnout isn't really something I personally experienced (except for pop figures) but I can say, I shifted more for quality over quantity as time went on. It's definitely a lot better being surrounded by things you love instead of just... "Stuff"

[@jordanb7789]

I'm so happy you're posting again on KZbin. Please keep it up! Thanks Pete

[@RPD91]

I got burned out of collecting games couple of years ago. I didn't buy a single game for almost a year. Perhaps of the backlog I left from collecting a lot of games over the years. Buying any game that wasn't a sports title with good deal. I came back to collecting video games with a different mindset now. Only buy the games you know you'll play and avoid full price when possible. The latest games I grabbed was couple of days ago. Code Vien New $10 Ni No Kuni Remastered $16. I know that I'm going to play them either now or later.

[@0DNETNIN]

I used to feel guilt but I have been working towards a goal of a complete First Party Pal Nintendo collection bar Mario party, Fire Emblem and One Off Games. Sometimes I buy games out of curiosity like recently I got Wetrix for Gameboy Color and it's a very intriguing game. Don't pressure yourself to collect what is popular but only buy games you actually want to play. I have sold lots in the past it only natural to let go of stuff that you won't end up using.

[@kaiiii020]

I love to see this kind of love for gaming. Recently the only retro games I buy anymore are ds and gba games most other consoles at the moment are just too insane even if it's not alot I love playing them

[@TechTucker]

Yeah I've spent a ton on games during quarantine, I hunt games and do what you do for my brother as well. It's just as fun finding a game for someone else as it is yourself. Also didn't know you were a streamer so gonna follow!

[@LEONthemercenarie]

Love the video Pete, it would be interesting to see a video of your autographed game collection. I know you mentioned doing that video idea a couple of years ago. Also I love the Ebay game hunting streams every week!

[@Pabmyster]

I've always slowly curated my collection over the years, only picking up games I want to play, and even then I haven't played 3/4 of my games. I have other hobbies, interests and a social life that matter more. My collection is still slowly growing but I'm much less impulsive, only buying CEs on things I really want and never buying brand new games. I still find myself running out of room and everything I own is stored away in boxes until I can display it. I find it stressful just owning some stuff now because the prices are crazy and if my stuff ever got damaged or stolen it would never get replaced. I also don't want to sell it because I'll regret it for sure, have tried it before and it's not the right move. tldr: having so many things is stressful and gives anxiety in a lot of ways, but I'm very proud of what I have and it's nearly everything I could want in a collection, having curated only good titles in a researched and focused manner. It would be impossible to willingly part with. I think it would be liberating to become minimalist and have nothing to worry about in the back of my mind, but I enjoy the things I have too much. All I can say is, pace yourself, have a goal, and acknowledge when something becomes hoarding or an unhealthy routine.

[@PS3GamingScotland]

I don't really get burnout for collecting video games as I only collect for PlayStation. I also make an effort to game hunting once a month. (hasn't been possible due to lockdown) but I'm eager to go out again soon. I would like to hear more about how your grandfather got you into video games. I'm enjoying the more regular content. Great video!

[@droopy935]

Love petes ebay game hunting every Saturday on his twitch! Checkout his affiliate link to support!

[@NESFriend]

Loved this video Pete. Very interesting perspective and I'm happy you're not burned out!

[@MrYodi2007]

I have given up on NES, SNES, Saturn, DC, annd about the Ps1 collection for now. Those prices are too much to collect for! 100+ dollars for one game no thanks!

[@MetalTiger88]

I always had a small collection around 400games and i'm burned out for at least 3years now😅 currently i don't have any freetime at all cause i take care of my grandpa, the house+garden and work full time. But i'm sure other times will come again soon 🙂

[@Nicomanism]

400 is a lot 😂. I plan on stopping there lmaooo

[@Dessan01]

A good tip is just to have one collection going at once, don’t try to collect for every retro console known to man - I’ve got a huge ps1 collection (including some very expensive titles) but flash carts for nearly everything else, and I don’t own a single real game for those systems anymore. I only really feel up to playing games at weekends these days, and I’m sure I’ll never finish every ps1 game I own, but it doesn’t bother me I like them.

[@TheUltimateMarioFan]

I remember back when Pete was eBay hunting and he saw a bunch of CIB Blood Will Tells and he was like '$30? too expensive' XD

[@sylentknyte]

I think its less burn out and more of an over-saturation problem. I was never a huge collector, but there is something amazing about finding a rare and valuable game for a great price. Or even just finding games with personal meaning for you. These days the prices are insane, there are resellers and other collectors everywhere, everyone has access to prices instantly, etc. It's just not a fun hobby anymore. It's not a "hunt". Where is the fun in just going on the internet and ordering something at market value?

[@pierrepellerin249]

collecting is the exact same thing as drugs, alcool or gambling addiction. It's a mental sickness. I fixed mine in 2005 by throwing it all in the garbage, so no turning back. That's hundreds of games, boxes and boxes of Star Trek stuff, more vinyl, cassettes and CDs you can count and over 500 vhs and dvd movies. 15 years later, i still get the urge to buy games and collect stuff but i can resist those urges now. I will be fighting this sickness for the rest of my life. I have a digital only xbox and will never buy another physical game cuz all it takes, is 1 game, 1 drink, 1 bet and you fall right back in it.