COLLECTORS ONLY: Do Reprints, Re-releases, etc. Hurt your collecting goals?

[neogamer]

This thread is meant mainly for collectors. I am just curious about something. With the recent success of the Nintendo Wii Virtual Console and the fact that now even Turbo Grafx-CD games are coming to it, does this hurt your collecting "wish list" or do you still want to own the originals?

Does the fact that compilation discs are readily available for the Playstation2, etc. affect the games you are directly buying and collecting?

Do reprints and re-releases (i.e. Greatest Hits series) affect how you buy games?

I am curious to hear how you guys answer these questions. Feel free to speak whatever is on your mind provided it is subject related. I am talking mainly to KNOWLEDGEABLE COLLECTORS, not gamers. Sorry, but in the end, most gamers just want to play a game and do not care about its condition, long term value, etc. (or they would be collectors)

I look forward to your replies! Thanks again!

[spoon]

I don't mind the compilations and it's nice to see peeps or personally get the chance to play some games I may not have otherwise. In regards to their price, availability, distribution releases, what have you.

I myself still have to have the originals. Nothing like physically owning the game and playing it on its designed for hardware. It is nice to have the HD updates and achievements , but, at the same time sometimes the controls are super weak.

Reprints and re-releases may affect how I buy games. I will try to avoid buying greatest hits. Look ugly on a shelf. But on the same token, sometimes they have extra features I want. Also, if I know a re-print will be out, I will try and wait and then pick up the original at a cheaper price.

Value is not as much of a concern to me as having things the way they were meant to be. I like my games original, but, my systems "updated" Go figure.

I do also collect some variants, but, greatest hits are really not something I personally consider. They are usually uglier anyhow.

[Nebagram]

There's a big difference between compilations/DL games and the originals. Good example- as a gamer, I snapped up Paper Mario and Mario Lost Levels on the VC very quickly, but as a collector, I still want the original cartridges (okay, in Lost Levels' case the GBA cart- which is a rarity in itself) on my shelf. Collections are another thing too- god knows how many copies of Sonic 3 I own as a consequence, but the only one I play seems to be on PS2, the mega collection.

I don't suppose I'm THAT serious a collector though, as unlike most, I make no distinction between original release and GH/platinum when buying a game.

[RadiantSvgun]

To me, it really depends on the game that is reprinted.

[mnbren05]

It depends on the game system. I have a friend that collects the greatest hits/platinum hits games as well as the regular edition. He told me, " It adds a new dimension to collecting and they save you money when you buy them brand new." I agree with him partially, but I think that if someone is a die hard collector they will not be happy with a GH/PH over an original release. That is unless they are into variant collecting.

[erehwon]

I don't usually mind if a game is reprinted. It may affect the value, but I don't usually sell games. As for GH games, I'm on CAG most of the time and we get some advance notice alot of the time of when they're going GH. I was able to get a non-GH copy of KHII a week before it went GH and price match it to the GH price.

[TurboGenesis]

…Sorry, but in the end, most gamers just want to play a game and do not care about its condition, long term value, etc. (or they would be collectors)


Sorry but I am a games player and I do care about the condition of my games. Just because I am play my games, that is make me not take care of my games? shit on me some more.

[s1lence]

Sorry but I am a games player and I do care about the condition of my games. Just because I am play my games, that is make me not take care of my games? shit on me some more.

Here we go again with the collector vs gamer debate.

I'm a gamer and a collector, and releases don't effect my buying choices in anyway other then I don't buy GH titles unless they have something exclusive compared to the normal release. Fable :Lost Chapters would be a good example of that. Also I think a large number of "gamers" especially around these parts really care for their games.

[tritium]

Reprints of Ikaruga on Gamecube broke my heart. I think re-releases and such kill the whole purpose of retro-gaming. At leat it still looks better on the retro-system...

As for collecting, it seriously affects value, but I dont always collect for value so I feel indifferent.

[Flashback2012]

Reprints
Depends on the reprint. If we're talking about the ones companies like Atlus and Gamequest Direct have put out then no, I have no issue with these reprints. If we're talking about the Majesco releases of the Genesis and Super NES stuff then yes as the packaging and carts for those were clearly inferior to the original releases.

Re-Releases
I don't have a problem with these because when a game gets added to the Greatest Hits/Platinum Hits/Player's Choice line it invariably means a price drop for the game. With a little effort you can find a nice used copy that doesn't have the GH/PH/PC markings on the game.

Compilations
More often than not I'm a sucker for these things. I'll snap them up even though I'll have most of the games on them already. Even if they have a game on them I want the original for but don't have yet, it doesn't deter me from wanting the original any less.

Virtual Console/Xbox Live Arcade
I imagine whenever I do take the Nestea plunge and get a Wii, I'll no doubt be buying up almost every TG16 game on there even though I have almost all of them already. Like compilations, even if they put a game on there that I don't have (like they soon will with Super Air Zonk), I'll still want the original regardless.

[ScourDX]

Reprints & re-releases doesn't affect me at all. It gives people a chance to experience classic game rather be forgotten. It gives collector like me chances to own the game rather than paying for overpriced game.

[spoon]

One quick addition. Compilations are also cool because they usually have extras, interviews, cheats and what not.

Also, a plus for downloading the games is that for me it is a bit more convenient to play on systems that are downstairs and hooked up. Sometimes hooking up ten million cords is a pain in the ass.

[Arasoi]

I collect all variants and re-releases, except 5 language releases in PAL.

Another thing to note is that there are often bugfixes in re-releases as well. A lot of Castlevania: Symphony of the Night's glitching bugs were removed in the re-releases.

[neogamer]

Sorry but I am a games player and I do care about the condition of my games. Just because I am play my games, that is make me not take care of my games? shit on me some more.

Do you take everything personally? My gosh already...

Anyway for everyone else, thanks for all your posts. I am not trying to start a collector vs. gamer debate, I am just wondering how these items affect what you collect, etc. That's it. There is no hidden agenda here...okay?

I only buy new, but believe it or not, I don't mind the Greatest Hits games or even the Platinum Hits versions. Knowing how "anal" I am about my collecting habits, I am sure that surprises a lot of people. That is just my opinion and I do see where other people are coming from when they say that they only want the original versions.

[Dark_Sol]

Well. As for me i guess i'm a "pure" collector. I get only first prints and black labels. First original releases. I hate greatest hits and player's choice and "BEST SELLER" stuff. I do not even know why. well... i guess this is made for money, not for "to make the good games available". Companies try to pack more good old games in a new shiny boxes just to make more money on old stuff IMHO. Good games should be played in original way, they are "the start of it all". Imho rereleases and cheap remakes loose original "flavour" for me.

[Family Computer]

I never buy any type of Greatest Hits or reprint.

I don't like compilations much either unless they are the best version released for a console. Arcade games that never came out with perfect translations years ago, but are included as part of a compilation are often the exception. I also like all the fighting game comps for PS2 because it lets me use a PS2 arcade stick, and most of the ports are virtually arcade identical.

I usually like to own the game on the original system for which it came out. I am your classic purist when it comes to gaming and collecting. I need mint/complete Japanese Originals for any Japanese game and mint/complete US originals for Western games.

[ScourDX]

I try to avoid Greatest Hits, Player's choice, & Platinum Edition game, but some game only release on Greatest Hits like:

- Virtual Fighter 4 EVO (PS2)
- Silent Hill 2 Director Cut (PS2)
- Devil May Cry 3 SE (PS2) - although the trilogy pack have SE in black label
- DBZ Budokai 3 (PS2) - added new Japanese voice & costume

In some cases Greatest Hits, Player's choice, & Platinum Edition are limited release. Games like Super Smash Bros Melee & Mario Kart Double Dash were released as Player's Choice once. I've seen it selling in EB store. After that I don't see it anymore.

[MarioMania]

I don't reeally care..I'm both, I have like Differnt version's of Mario & Sonic...I would at lease have the Manual to the game..if I fine the game I have(R-Type cart only) CIB for a good price I will get it..Just keep the extra game in the box

[Barbarianoutkast85]

I dont own a WII yet, and dont have broadband either. So even if I had a WII I would'nt be able to use the VC. Anywho eventually I'll be able to use the VC, and if anything it makes me want MORE games, becuase If I download a game I havent played and like it, then I'll want to buy it. Plus it's also nice for games I dont own yet, so in short the virtual console doesnt make me want to own an original copy any less.

[Ed Oscuro]

I'm starting to warm up to the idea of reprints, although having stores like GameStop tear open the cases with a knife to satisfy some halfassed institutional policy isn't so good.

It'd be nice if they put a reprint notice or something on reprints of games that are more than ten years old. Other than that, though, bring 'em on. I wouldn't buy one at retail price, but I like the idea of having the price of a game (that more people should be able to play without needing to pirate) fall into the range where more people can get it.

Besides, I've played a few PC games that were re-released on the Sold Out Software label (notably the Deus Ex / Thief II pack).

[TurboGenesis]

Do you take everything personally? My gosh already...

Anyway for everyone else, thanks for all your posts. I am not trying to start a collector vs. gamer debate, I am just wondering how these items affect what you collect, etc. That's it. There is no hidden agenda here...okay?


First, everyone here and in real life is attack on me because I am a bit different.

Second, a thread title that is state "COLLECTORS ONLY:" is discriminate and segregate people -- something I am put up in real life for 31 years. Video games was my escape from this reality.

Third, I do not buy or seek "Greatest Hits", "Platnium Hits", "Player's Choice", etc… Unless I get a super deal like I get Viewtiful Joe for $5 brand new and it is Player's Choice. I prefer original packaging with out the different color borders - those green, red, yellow, and silver are not blend well with stock spines. These re print re release are good for budget gaming folks who want to play good games for good price. I have friends who are usually only buy budget titles -- they know game are good when they are play it at my home and get their own when cheap.

EDIT - to answer some more question, New Adventure Island came out on VC and I download it then a week later I buy the hucard -- it used to be a pricey game but I get it for $20+ship when it use to sell for $40. I want Sin and Punishment on VC but I already own it on the Nintendo 64 -- that is controller issue however as I really want to play with the classic controller.

[neogamer]

First, everyone here and in real life is attack on me because I am a bit different.

Second, a thread title that is state "COLLECTORS ONLY:" is discriminate and segregate people -- something I am put up in real life for 31 years. Video games was my escape from this reality.

Third, I do not buy or seek "Greatest Hits", "Platnium Hits", "Player's Choice", etc… Unless I get a super deal like I get Viewtiful Joe for $5 brand new and it is Player's Choice. I prefer original packaging with out the different color borders - those green, red, yellow, and silver are not blend well with stock spines. These re print re release are good for budget gaming folks who want to play good games for good price. I have friends who are usually only buy budget titles -- they know game are good when they are play it at my home and get their own when cheap.

EDIT - to answer some more question, New Adventure Island came out on VC and I download it then a week later I buy the hucard -- it used to be a pricey game but I get it for $20+ship when it use to sell for $40. I want Sin and Punishment on VC but I already own it on the Nintendo 64 -- that is controller issue however as I really want to play with the classic controller.

Let me state this as clearly as I can. I could care less about your personal problems or "how different" you think you are, okay? I can't see you and I could care less about your grammar skills too!

Don't take anything personal. If you do, you won't get too far in life, not to mention proving a point with me. I normally don't attack people on a personal level as it is unprofessional and very immature, so your safe with me.

Second, COLLECTORS ONLY is not meant as any type of discrimination tactic. Keep in mind though, you are on a website forum where you can buy two different collector's guides on video games.

Finally, thank you for answering the question that was originally asked! That is all I wanted to know. I'm not here to start debates, although I do have an egotistical personality.

NEW ADVENTURE ISLAND is a great under-rated game in my opinion! I love the TurboGrafx-16 and own a complete US collection, all in MINT condition.

[MarioMania]

What does Collectors only really mean, It sounds like you only want the die hard "Hardcore who collecs like the Hole Game's for a System..like the SNES, I don't do that..I don't have room for god damn crap I don't need..I only collect stuff what I like the Players Choice version's, Re-Release & Originals of the SNES, Genesis,NES & the Game Boy...

[Dark_Sol]

Well i think by "COLLECTOR'S ONLY" neogamer wanted to say that such stuff as: "black labels Vs Greatest Hits" is mostly a principal question for collectors, nor for casual gamers who do not really care. All they care (casuals) is that the game must be good. And it has nothing to do with discrimination. It has to do with the fact that collectors are VERY picky and captious persons. They care not only about the games themselves but also about the packaging, the condition and etc... That's why the question of remakes and reprints is very important for collectors. Not less then the question of "good game Vs bad game" or "cheap game Vs overpriced game" is important for casual gamers.

I hope i could explain what i wanted to say with my bad russian engrish. lol

[Ed Oscuro]

It would be nice if people would just pretend they were "collectors" and answer the question - or not. Just a thought...

[TurboGenesis]

http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa231/Sonic__R/100_2961.jpg

MINT enough for you?

You are still shit on me because I am dumb and not educated like you. I am working class fellow and now you are shit on how I fail in my life. Thanks mate.

I am a games player who are have a collection of games. Oh my god I like to play the games in my collection. I actually take care of my things from my home, my car, and my games. Just because I am not a collector is not make me not care about how my games are kept or how I like am purchase my games.

I understanding that I am on a website that is sell reference guides of video games which I own both the advanced edition and the collectors edtition.

[neogamer]

http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa231/Sonic__R/100_2961.jpg

MINT enough for you?

You are still shit on me because I am dumb and not educated like you. I am working class fellow and now you are shit on how I fail in my life. Thanks mate.

I am a games player who are have a collection of games. Oh my god I like to play the games in my collection. I actually take care of my things from my home, my car, and my games. Just because I am not a collector is not make me not care about how my games are kept or how I like am purchase my games.

I understanding that I am on a website that is sell reference guides of video games which I own both the advanced edition and the collectors edtition.


NO! THE CORNERS ARE WAY TOO ROUGH FOR ME! SORRY, BUT THAT DOESN'T CUT IT FOR MY COLLECTION! DOES THAT ANSWER YOUR QUESTION?

Do you always take things this personally...this is unbelievable. No offense, but I think I'm just going to ignore you from now on, okay? You can feel free to ignore me as well...

You chose to respond to this thread! I didn't make you! Remember that!

[neogamer]

It would be nice if people would just pretend they were "collectors" and answer the question - or not. Just a thought...


Thank you!

That's really all I want. Just a simple answer to the question at hand. If it offends you, oh well...

At least a few people understand the question I am asking...

[digitalpress]

This thread is meant mainly for collectors. I am just curious about something. With the recent success of the Nintendo Wii Virtual Console and the fact that now even Turbo Grafx-CD games are coming to it, does this hurt your collecting "wish list" or do you still want to own the originals?

I still want to own the originals.


Does the fact that compilation discs are readily available for the Playstation2, etc. affect the games you are directly buying and collecting?

I collect the compilations as well.


Do reprints and re-releases (i.e. Greatest Hits series) affect how you buy games?

No. Reprints are very infrequent and re-releases usually apply to big seller games which aren't usually "collector" targets anyway, so I pay very little attention to these outliers.


I am curious to hear how you guys answer these questions. Feel free to speak whatever is on your mind provided it is subject related. I am talking mainly to KNOWLEDGEABLE COLLECTORS, not gamers. Sorry, but in the end, most gamers just want to play a game and do not care about its condition, long term value, etc. (or they would be collectors)

Oh... that's all the questions? For the record, I am both a collector and a gamer. There are some things I buy with very little intention of ever playing, and others that I buy ONLY to play. Anyway, this was an easy questionairre. Anything else?

[neogamer]

I still want to own the originals.



I collect the compilations as well.



No. Reprints are very infrequent and re-releases usually apply to big seller games which aren't usually "collector" targets anyway, so I pay very little attention to these outliers.



Oh... that's all the questions? That was easy. Anything else?

Thanks again! That's it!

[TheRedEye]

I'm not much of a "collector," and I own maybe 20 or 30 games total from the previous generation, but I avoided any "greatest hits" stuff simply because I think the boxes are unattractive.

[Family Computer]

http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa231/Sonic__R/100_2961.jpg

MINT enough for you?



The Hu-Card and the manual look to be in good shape, but I wouldn't exactly call the outer box *mint*

[vaportransmitter]

I think re-prints are fine in the case of Persona 2 and Rhapsody are concerned (is there any difference)? Bubble Bobble 2 on Gameboy comes to mind too, as a good way to do a reprint. But stuff like Majesco is pretty lame. "Score/award/advertising/etc variants" (Bubsy 3D is the only example I can think of off the top of my head.) I tend to shy away from, too... I don't want more stuff covering the box art (no matter how horrible it is).

Greatest Hits and the like... I don't like to get unless it has extra content. Breaks up the streamlined effect.

Compilations are great. Plain and simple, even if the emulation is a bit off on some of them. Taito Legends has arcade games that never made it on a home console, so no reason to scoff at it. Not everyone can afford arcade machines!

It's okay to have the same game on multiple systems, and I will continue to do so. I love owning physical copies... and I love hunting them down.

I'm a gamer, pure and simple. I just tend to collect that which I like. I'll never buy a game I don't intend to play... and any sealed game I get is either getting opened or resold. :-)

If I wanted to PLAY a game, I'd emulate it... or buy a cheap cart. If I want to EXPERIENCE it, I'll buy it complete. Haha.

[Ed Oscuro]

I'm not much of a "collector," and I own maybe 20 or 30 games total from the previous generation, but I avoided any "greatest hits" stuff simply because I think the boxes are unattractive.
Random thought here - if distributors wised up and started using alternative art for GH style releases, people would end up buying multiple copies, which as we all know is the ultimate goal anyhow

It wouldn't be too difficult, since many games already ship with completely different art between territories.

[Tron 2.0]

Reprints don't bother me same go's for reproductions.

All i want is the game to play i'm not worry if the game looks good sitting,on the shelf and wounder if it has value or not.

Oh and i do like picking up collections the....most i want in them is that emulation is close to prefect.

As for games that ya down load i prefer the real deal.

On the vc i've only mess with the snes stuff.

I have avoided the,NES and TG16 titles for it since i'm collecting for those consoles still.

[Iron Draggon]

the only thing that I hate about reprints and rereleases is when they change something about them to make them different from the originals. I just don't understand the point of that. it can't really be out of concern for the value of the originals, because the very fact that there is a reprint or a rerelease automatically discounts the value of the originals. so all it really does is piss off the hardcore collectors, because now when they're looking to buy a copy of a game that's been reprinted or rereleased, they have to ask if the copy they're interested in is an original or one of the rereleases. so why not just reprint and rerelease everything exactly as it was originally released? there's no reason not to, other than the false notion that by making some changes, somehow the value of the original is preserved. but it's not preserved, it's diminished. and no matter what they do trying to pretend otherwise, it's true.

the only real reasons that I can see for changing reprints and rereleases are when the rerelease includes something different from the original release, or to help all the mindless sheep who are too stupid to figure out what games they should buy to make a decision. I know there's alot of people who won't buy any game until it's rereleased in special packaging to announce the fact that alot of people have already bought that game, and it's very popular. I don't know why anyone would do this, but I know alot of people do it. it's as though they have to have that special packaging to validate their purchases.

as for the PC, labels like SoldOut and Xplosive really piss me off. if the game is really that popular, then just rerelease it exactly as the original. fuck this stupid bullshit of rebranding it in cheapo packaging and pimping it out to the masses. it just makes it infinitely more difficult for collectors like me to find copies of the original releases, and then if and when we do, we have to pay a premium for them, because OMG the roxors, it's the RARE original releases!

as for compilations, I have no problems at all with them. sometimes I like to have all the games in a series on one disk instead of on multiple disks. they save space and they usually include a little something extra to make them extra special. also they tend to be alot cheaper than the price of buying all of the originals. this is the kind of rebranding and rereleasing that I like. it should only be done this way. everybody wins with these, and nobody loses.

now on to the virtual download thing. it is truly great for gamers who just want to play the games. and also for new gamers who never had a chance to play the originals. it also doesn't hurt the collector in any way at all. or at least it shouldn't. so I don't have a problem with that either, although it's not my thing. I still prefer to own the original versions in their original form. that's the whole point of why I'm a collector. in fact, I tend to think of myself as more of an archivist than a collector. I'm buying all this stuff to preserve it.

so with all that in mind, I really don't care how any of this stuff affects the value of my collection, which is what I think you were alluding to when you asked this question. some collectors may become infuriated because the value of Game X was dramatically reduced by the rerelease, but these guys aren't really collectors, they're investors. they're collecting only for the sole purpose of earning a return on their investment. they buy low and sell high. and they could care less about anything else. the minute they feel that the value of something has reached its peak, they seek to sell it ASAP. this is the only reason why you'll hear them complaining about how the value of their investment was diminished by the rerelease. they didn't sell it soon enough.

[neogamer]

Keep in mind guys, investors are in every hobby. It is both good and bad for the hobby as a whole. I truly love my video game collection and I love video games, however, I also want it to maintain some of its value. This does not mean I expect every game I buy to be worth exactly what I paid for it or even go up in value, however over the years, I developed a great ability to figure out what games generally will be worth some money in the future. I bought out three Toys R Us store's inventory of sealed Dreamcast games! Made a small fortune on eBay many years ago. Power Stone 2 sealed for $19.99 new? That is what I paid! How about Mars Matrix and Cannon Spike? Got them both for $19.99 new as well! Great deal! Right now I preceive both Growlanser and Persona 3 to be worth something in the future(especially if they get a price drop, which I doubt). Believe it or not, I also think GOD OF WAR will be worth something as well (maybe only $25-$30, but it is possible). People thought I was nuts for buying up sealed copies of Silent Hill for $19.99 a game many years ago.

Greatest Hits, Platinum Hits, and Player's Choice series of games don't bother me at all. Sometimes I like the Greatest Hits version better! This happened with GOD OF WAR, I thought the artwork on the original release wasn't that good!

[zektor]

Well, I *will* buy a GH version of a title to tide me over until I can find the original...if it is that difficult to find, but I generally steer away from GH type re-releases. The value factor is one issue, but even more I personally hate how the box art is changed...sometimes dramatically.

Case in point: Gamecube titles. The spines are bright yellow, whereas the originals are dark. This means that your cheap-o GH games stick out like a sore thumb when displayed. It may not bother others, but it certainly bothers me.

Second case in point: Genesis "Classics" re-releases. Was it necessary to shrink the box art down so much? Completely ruins it for me. I get rid of the classic versions any time I can.

[Nate Nanjo]

Hmm, re-releases and reprints usually do not bother me. However, I do not like Greatest Hits. Although everytime I bought a Greatest Hits, the Gamestop near me will let me switch out for the original, since it is the same game. (I do check disk before doing so).

[Oobgarm]

This thread is meant mainly for collectors. I am just curious about something. With the recent success of the Nintendo Wii Virtual Console and the fact that now even Turbo Grafx-CD games are coming to it, does this hurt your collecting "wish list" or do you still want to own the originals?

No way. There are too many variables that can change when games are ported. If I want a game, original it must be-unless it's obscenely out of my price range (i.e. the NWC repro)


Does the fact that compilation discs are readily available for the Playstation2, etc. affect the games you are directly buying and collecting?

No, since most of the games that are on compilations I'm personally interested in are games that are arcade ports. I'm not too keen on compilations of console-based stuff, unless there's something cool as an added bonus.


Do reprints and re-releases (i.e. Greatest Hits series) affect how you buy games?

I avoid them whenever possible, unless the only release of a title is GH, like Midnight Club 3: Dub Edition. If it's a re-print of a title that I may have missed, it's OK as long as it's not a GH title.


I am curious to hear how you guys answer these questions. Feel free to speak whatever is on your mind provided it is subject related. I am talking mainly to KNOWLEDGEABLE COLLECTORS, not gamers. Sorry, but in the end, most gamers just want to play a game and do not care about its condition, long term value, etc. (or they would be collectors)

But, not ALL collectors are concerned with the value of their stuff. I collect, and I'm not out hunting for stuff to stock up on, in the event that it's 'OMG RARE' someday. It cool that I have some stuff that is considered semi-valuable, but I'd never sell it. So am I concerened abut the value? No. If you bought solely based on future value, I'd consider you a 'reseller'.

Now that games are seriously mainstream again, and the market is saturated with product, only a select few will ever hold their original retail value, and that may only be in a collector's circle.

I look at it like I look at my Dad's Hot Wheels collection. He buys new cars when he sees them at the store. When new ones first hit the shelves, they may go for 3-4 times their $1 price tag. But, over time, they become more prevalent in the marketplace, and people who who bought to resell later are stuck with toys that won't even fetch their retail price tag anymore. My Dad was quick to realize this and stopped paying premiums for stuff that would show up at the store if he just decided to wait. He tries to complete every year's checklist, since he enjoys the toys and the collecting aspect. There are valuable ones out there, but he doesn't go out of his way to get them.

The way I see it, if you're collecting, you want them all, value be damned.

[neogamer]

I just collect what I enjoy as well. It is unique though that for me, unlike most of the majority, I don't mind Greatest Hits, Player's Choice, and Platinum Hits versions. I thought if anything, I would be more "anal" about this aspect of collecting.

This I find interesting...

I however, do VALUE my collection! I guess this is the "logical business person" buried inside me! HELP-LOL!

Anyway, I think if you don't keep track of what something is worth, you can end up in big trouble. On the other hand, if you spend too much time worrying about the item or collection's worth, you are also in trouble as well!

There is a fine line between the two. I will say this: I caution collector's against two things:

1. BUYING ON PLASTIC IS A BIG NO-NO! I have seen people who make a lot of money (i.e. business associates, financial planers, analysts and co-workers) who spend big on their hobbies and interests. They call it "investing." I call it stupidity! Yes, you can make money in any collectibles field, I have argued this point for years, heck I make and have made money in collectibles! Do NOT go into debt to do it. Just don't! Trust me, you will thank me for this lecture. Sorry, but I had to say it and if I save one person from "financial ruin" as a result of it it was worth it! I realize I am financially lucky, but I realize some are not as lucky as me or others on these forums, so the temptation to use a credit card is there. If you do use one, pay it off in full at the end of the month!

2. INSURE YOUR COLLECTION! Over the years I am sure some of you have amassed an awesome collection! Are you aware you can get $10,000 worth of insurance for just $50.00 a year? I needed more than that and had no problems getting a higher amount. This is something most collector's forget.

If you sell an item on eBay and it gets damaged in transit, insurance will cover you! Most collectors are not aware of this! Contact the Collectibles Insurance Agency! Once again I HAVE NO TIES TO THEM whatsoever! I am just recommending their service to you as a fellow collector! I use them for video games, toys, comic books, and coins! Never had a problem.

Keep in mind, no insurance covers stupidity! If you scratch your Radiant Silvergun game you are out of luck! Sorry...

[Bojay1997]

There is a fine line between the two. I will say this: I caution collector's against two things:

1. BUYING ON PLASTIC IS A BIG NO-NO! I have seen people who make a lot of money (i.e. business associates, financial planers, analysts and co-workers) who spend big on their hobbies and interests. They call it "investing." I call it stupidity! Yes, you can make money in any collectibles field, I have argued this point for years, heck I make and have made money in collectibles! Do NOT go into debt to do it. Just don't! Trust me, you will thank me for this lecture. Sorry, but I had to say it and if I save one person from "financial ruin" as a result of it it was worth it! I realize I am financially lucky, but I realize some are not as lucky as me or others on these forums, so the temptation to use a credit card is there. If you do use one, pay it off in full at the end of the month!

2. INSURE YOUR COLLECTION! Over the years I am sure some of you have amassed an awesome collection! Are you aware you can get $10,000 worth of insurance for just $50.00 a year? I needed more than that and had no problems getting a higher amount. This is something most collector's forget.

If you sell an item on eBay and it gets damaged in transit, insurance will cover you! Most collectors are not aware of this! Contact the Collectibles Insurance Agency! Once again I HAVE NO TIES TO THEM whatsoever! I am just recommending their service to you as a fellow collector! I use them for video games, toys, comic books, and coins! Never had a problem.

Keep in mind, no insurance covers stupidity! If you scratch your Radiant Silvergun game you are out of luck! Sorry...

I find it ironic that the guy who is always complaining when a thread goes off topic, even if he didn't start the thread, is now engaged in the very same thing here.

[PingvinBlueJeans]

I find it ironic that the guy who is always complaining when a thread goes off topic, even if he didn't start the thread, is now engaged in the very same thing here.

He is very annoying.

[zektor]

For a minute there I thought that was spam...well...it pretty much is!

[boatofcar]

Trust me, you will thank me for this lecture.

Because that's why we're reading this topic, right? Oh...no, no it's not.


Anyway, when I was a collector (I took that hat off a while back) I always hated the GH tites, just because as a collector a big deal to me was displaying my collection. As many other in this thread have stated, the GH labels and spines look like crap placed next to an original release.

[Dark_Sol]

I just collect what I enjoy as well. It is unique though that for me, unlike most of the majority, I don't mind Greatest Hits, Player's Choice, and Platinum Hits versions. I thought if anything, I would be more "anal" about this aspect of collecting.

This I find interesting...

I however, do VALUE my collection! I guess this is the "logical business person" buried inside me! HELP-LOL!

Anyway, I think if you don't keep track of what something is worth, you can end up in big trouble. On the other hand, if you spend too much time worrying about the item or collection's worth, you are also in trouble as well!

There is a fine line between the two. I will say this: I caution collector's against two things:

1. BUYING ON PLASTIC IS A BIG NO-NO! I have seen people who make a lot of money (i.e. business associates, financial planers, analysts and co-workers) who spend big on their hobbies and interests. They call it "investing." I call it stupidity! Yes, you can make money in any collectibles field, I have argued this point for years, heck I make and have made money in collectibles! Do NOT go into debt to do it. Just don't! Trust me, you will thank me for this lecture. Sorry, but I had to say it and if I save one person from "financial ruin" as a result of it it was worth it! I realize I am financially lucky, but I realize some are not as lucky as me or others on these forums, so the temptation to use a credit card is there. If you do use one, pay it off in full at the end of the month!

2. INSURE YOUR COLLECTION! Over the years I am sure some of you have amassed an awesome collection! Are you aware you can get $10,000 worth of insurance for just $50.00 a year? I needed more than that and had no problems getting a higher amount. This is something most collector's forget.

If you sell an item on eBay and it gets damaged in transit, insurance will cover you! Most collectors are not aware of this! Contact the Collectibles Insurance Agency! Once again I HAVE NO TIES TO THEM whatsoever! I am just recommending their service to you as a fellow collector! I use them for video games, toys, comic books, and coins! Never had a problem.

Keep in mind, no insurance covers stupidity! If you scratch your Radiant Silvergun game you are out of luck! Sorry...
I must say that i agree completely.

[cyberfluxor]

I collect games to play and keep for future gameplay, only selling off games I didn't play much or don't like. I do this to afford others higher on my want list or to gain orphans to complete a particular game. GH releases aren't something I care for (and the total I own are in the single digits) so it does make it a bit more difficult to find a pre-GH copy if they are in limited quantities. Reprints are nice especially if they have updated or corrected something, I'm a gamer first and collector second so having a playable game is most important (very picky about disc conditions).

So now that my operation of ideas is down when it comes to goals, I don't have any true goals. My real success in the game field is to own as many games in the best condition that I enjoy and love in addition to exploring new game systems and expanding my selection. As a future game designer, programmer and various other things it's vital to see what I and others enjoy. One day I will finally put my ideas into motion and bring new-school retro games to the forefront of modern gaming at a low cost to the casual and dedicated gamer, it's just going to take a few more years to continue gathering those elements together (which isn't something a "gaming college" or CS degree can teach).

Although I'm not a full-fledged collector I do have an emphasis on getting and keeping what I really want.

[megamaniaman]

the only thing that I hate about reprints and rereleases is when they change something about them to make them different from the originals. I just don't understand the point of that. it can't really be out of concern for the value of the originals, because the very fact that there is a reprint or a rerelease automatically discounts the value of the originals. so all it really does is piss off the hardcore collectors, because now when they're looking to buy a copy of a game that's been reprinted or rereleased, they have to ask if the copy they're interested in is an original or one of the rereleases. so why not just reprint and rerelease everything exactly as it was originally released? there's no reason not to, other than the false notion that by making some changes, somehow the value of the original is preserved. but it's not preserved, it's diminished. and no matter what they do trying to pretend otherwise, it's true.

the only real reasons that I can see for changing reprints and rereleases are when the rerelease includes something different from the original release, or to help all the mindless sheep who are too stupid to figure out what games they should buy to make a decision. I know there's alot of people who won't buy any game until it's rereleased in special packaging to announce the fact that alot of people have already bought that game, and it's very popular. I don't know why anyone would do this, but I know alot of people do it. it's as though they have to have that special packaging to validate their purchases.

as for the PC, labels like SoldOut and Xplosive really piss me off. if the game is really that popular, then just rerelease it exactly as the original. fuck this stupid bullshit of rebranding it in cheapo packaging and pimping it out to the masses. it just makes it infinitely more difficult for collectors like me to find copies of the original releases, and then if and when we do, we have to pay a premium for them, because OMG the roxors, it's the RARE original releases!

as for compilations, I have no problems at all with them. sometimes I like to have all the games in a series on one disk instead of on multiple disks. they save space and they usually include a little something extra to make them extra special. also they tend to be alot cheaper than the price of buying all of the originals. this is the kind of rebranding and rereleasing that I like. it should only be done this way. everybody wins with these, and nobody loses.

now on to the virtual download thing. it is truly great for gamers who just want to play the games. and also for new gamers who never had a chance to play the originals. it also doesn't hurt the collector in any way at all. or at least it shouldn't. so I don't have a problem with that either, although it's not my thing. I still prefer to own the original versions in their original form. that's the whole point of why I'm a collector. in fact, I tend to think of myself as more of an archivist than a collector. I'm buying all this stuff to preserve it.

so with all that in mind, I really don't care how any of this stuff affects the value of my collection, which is what I think you were alluding to when you asked this question. some collectors may become infuriated because the value of Game X was dramatically reduced by the rerelease, but these guys aren't really collectors, they're investors. they're collecting only for the sole purpose of earning a return on their investment. they buy low and sell high. and they could care less about anything else. the minute they feel that the value of something has reached its peak, they seek to sell it ASAP. this is the only reason why you'll hear them complaining about how the value of their investment was diminished by the rerelease. they didn't sell it soon enough.

Have you looked into other collections? A 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th printing of a book does not lower the value of the 1st printing. Same thing is true for records. The same thing is true for comics as well. There have been many reprintings of the 1st Amazing Spiderman and it still goes for around 4 to 5 thousand. If there was no change in the printing of the first to second than it would have an effect on value. Why do you think that video games are so different than any other hobby?

[cyberfluxor]

Have you looked into other collections? A 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th printing of a book does not lower the value of the 1st printing. Same thing is true for records. The same thing is true for comics as well. There have been many reprintings of the 1st Amazing Spiderman and it still goes for around 4 to 5 thousand. If there was no change in the printing of the first to second than it would have an effect on value. Why do you think that video games are so different than any other hobby?

I'd say it's due to ignorance of basic gamers who don't research. When a collector seeks out that 1st print and the others see that high bid they believe they're all that collectable except the funny looking GH version. Sometimes though the GH will get caught up in the "action" and go up in value too. I believe a lot of other hobbies that have been around longer have a stronger core and therefore more knowledge of what's actually happening which leaves the other prints lower.

That's just my assumption though since I don't pay much attention to many other hobbies. I'll buy a record because it's $1, not because some music community considers it common/rare or work some monitary value. I'll purchase a book because I really want to read it, not because it'll eventually be $1 at a thrift store. So it also has to deal with the interests of the purchaser. Yeah, this can get pretty deep and complicated beyond the scope of what we can even think of but really it's up to each of us to decide what it's really worth and if we want it.

[Razor Ramon]

This thread is meant mainly for collectors. I am just curious about something. With the recent success of the Nintendo Wii Virtual Console and the fact that now even Turbo Grafx-CD games are coming to it, does this hurt your collecting "wish list" or do you still want to own the originals?

Does the fact that compilation discs are readily available for the Playstation2, etc. affect the games you are directly buying and collecting?

Do reprints and re-releases (i.e. Greatest Hits series) affect how you buy games?

I am curious to hear how you guys answer these questions. Feel free to speak whatever is on your mind provided it is subject related. I am talking mainly to KNOWLEDGEABLE COLLECTORS, not gamers. Sorry, but in the end, most gamers just want to play a game and do not care about its condition, long term value, etc. (or they would be collectors)

I look forward to your replies! Thanks again!

Bump yo

[Poofta!]

regarding VC and xbox live and other digital distribution: i could care less. i still wanna buy what i wanted before. i might buy it on VC too just for convenience sake (i bought super mario world just so i didnt have to have my snes hooked up, at all anymore).

regarding compilations: might affect me, usually doesnt, i might get a compilations to quickly get an updated quick and easy way of playing classics, but usually ill still go out and get the original that i care about it. i like comps cause they include other games that i wouldnt normally get or have never played. sometimes i wanna play a game on the comp but dont wanna bother playing hte original due to save format or the console its on.

regarding reprints: i LOVE these, as they are usually of hard to find games, which makes values drop like a rock! weee!!! makes it faster and easier to complete the set i want. plus since they are indistinguishable from the originals, its even better.

greatest hits etc: i hate these releases however am still glad for their existance since it usually drops the price of the originals so they are easier to obtain.




bottom line, i like things cheap. i like to hold things in my hand.

[Poofta!]

He is very annoying.

seriously.
i hate his "lemme mentor you" approach to everything. dude, stfu, you like collecting new games? awesome, over the last 5 years that this forum has been around we've seen and heard it all, it doesnt matter, go look at your plastic wrapping and shut up. dont ever ever pass generalizations here. as everyone here is either a gamer or a gamer AND collector. the pure collectors who do not game or know anything about gaming get BOO'd rather quickly.

[neogamer]

seriously.
i hate his "lemme mentor you" approach to everything. dude, stfu, you like collecting new games? awesome, over the last 5 years that this forum has been around we've seen and heard it all, it doesnt matter, go look at your plastic wrapping and shut up. dont ever ever pass generalizations here. as everyone here is either a gamer or a gamer AND collector. the pure collectors who do not game or know anything about gaming get BOO'd rather quickly.

Wow, you don't know me at all. Once again, I don't even like or collect factory sealed games.

[Barbarianoutkast85]

I'm glad that there are reproductions, reprints, re-releases are avaliable. For a few diffent reasons:

Emulators, Roms and Wii Virtual Console are all great in my opion, because if there is a game I've never heard of I can play it and see if I like it. So in other words; Emulators, Roms, and Wii VC let me find hidden gems I wouldnt know about other-wise.

Reproductions some pro's in my opion as well. A perfect example is retrousb.com selling reproductions of the 1990 NWC cartridge, because it gives everyone a chance to play it without selling out a $1000 OR more to own a single game.

I know when a lot of collectors are looking for a game for the Playstation or newer they dont want to buy the "greatest hits" or the "1 million seller" edition of a game. But I dont sell out more than $40 on a video game very often, so when a game is made into a greatest hit I scoop it up for the $15 or $20. In addition greatest hits games had yet another aspect, or challenge, to video game collecting.

[neogamer]

I'm glad that there are reproductions, reprints, re-releases are avaliable. For a few diffent reasons:

Emulators, Roms and Wii Virtual Console are all great in my opion, because if there is a game I've never heard of I can play it and see if I like it. So in other words; Emulators, Roms, and Wii VC let me find hidden gems I wouldnt know about other-wise.

Reproductions some pro's in my opion as well. A perfect example is retrousb.com selling reproductions of the 1990 NWC cartridge, because it gives everyone a chance to play it without selling out a $1000 OR more to own a single game.

I know when a lot of collectors are looking for a game for the Playstation or newer they dont want to buy the "greatest hits" or the "1 million seller" edition of a game. But I dont sell out more than $40 on a video game very often, so when a game is made into a greatest hit I scoop it up for the $15 or $20. In addition greatest hits games had yet another aspect, or challenge, to video game collecting.


That is an interesting thought. Let me ask you something though:

Which is more common, the Greatest Hits version or the "regular edition?"

I was always under the impression that fewer Greatest Hits versions were released and that dealers actually started to tell buyers that the originals were more common. Don't know if this is true, but I have had more than one dealer tell me that the REGULAR versions (I am talking about original Playstation games here) are much more common than the Greatest Hits versions, its just that the regular versions are in higher demand!

I can tell you that when I was an eBay power seller (and I did between $3,000-$5,000 a month in video game sales), I ran into regular versions a lot more than G.H. versions! Maybe it's the area I live in, but I doubt it!

That is part of the reason why collecting G.H. versions doesn't bother me!

[Fuzzball24]

Reprints
No problem, as long as it doesn't have any game of the year stuff on it or anything. Some games, however, like Phantom Dust, have stuff printed on the cover on all versions.

Re-Releases
Basically, I don't buy PH/PC/GH.

Compilations
Yeah, I do buy them. They're great.

Virtual Console/Xbox Live Arcade
Sometimes. Depends if they have online and stuff.