If you’ve been collecting classic video games for a while, you know how important proper storage is. Whether you own NES cartridges, PlayStation discs, or Game Boy titles, keeping your games in good condition helps protect their value and playability for years to come.

At Game Repair, we see all kinds of damage caused by poor storage—faded labels, cracked cases, corroded contacts. Here’s how to avoid that and give your collection the care it deserves.

1. Keep Your Games in a Cool, Dry Place

Moisture is the enemy of vintage games. Store your games in a room with low humidity and stable temperatures. Avoid garages, attics, or anywhere that gets too hot or cold.
Why it matters:

• Humidity can cause mold, label damage, and rust on contacts

• Heat can warp plastic cases and cartridges

2. Use Protective Cases and Sleeves

Plastic protectors are an easy way to shield games from dust, scratches, and shelf wear.
For cartridge-based games:

• NES/SNES/N64: Use dust sleeves or plastic snap cases

• Game Boy/Game Gear: Hard clamshell cases or padded pouches work best

Note: Be cautious with replacement cases for disc-based games. Many are made with fiberglass materials that can scratch the disc surface over time. Keeping your original cases in good shape is the safest option.

3. Store Games Vertically Like Books

Standing your games upright on a shelf (instead of stacking them) reduces pressure on the cases and labels.
Bonus tip: Use dividers or shelf risers to keep everything tidy and visible.

4. Avoid Direct Sunlight

Sunlight fades labels, cracks cases, and ruins box art.
If your game room gets a lot of natural light, try UV-blocking window film or store your rarest items in a closed cabinet or bin.

5. Handle Cartridges and Discs Carefully

Always grab cartridges by the sides and discs by the edges. Avoid touching the contacts or the bottom of the disc.
Optional upgrades: Use gloves when handling sealed games or high-value items.

6. Don’t Forget About Batteries

Many classic cartridges (especially Game Boy, NES, and SNES titles) contain save batteries. These can leak over time.
If you're unsure whether a battery is at risk, bring your game in for a quick check—we offer battery replacement services right here at Game Repair.

7. Label and Organize by Console

Staying organized makes collecting more fun—and reduces the risk of misplacing or damaging games. Try bins or drawers labeled by console. If you're using shelving, group games by platform and consider using spine labels.

Protect Your Collection, One Game at a Time

Your vintage games are more than just cartridges or discs—they’re part of gaming history. With a few simple steps, you can keep them looking and playing great for decades to come.

Need help restoring or testing your collection? Visit us in-store or check out our selection of authentic retro games at GameRepair.com.

Taking good care of your vintage games not only protects your investment—it keeps the fun alive for years to come. Whether you're looking to store your collection the right way, replace old save batteries, or bring a scratched disc back to life, we’re here to help. Visit us in-store or browse our selection of authentic retro games and cartridge repair services, or click here if you need professional disc repair for scratched or unreadable games.