Collector's Guide to Game Expo Shopping

by RecycledGamer on 9-16-2011

While the Portland Retro Gaming Expo started out as a small collector-focused convention, the most popular part of the event has always been the Vendor Marketplace. Here are a few tips for everyone from the casual retro gamer to the passionate collector for getting the most out of any classic video game expo.

• Make a list
  Knowing what you are looking for before you enter the chaos of Saturday morning in the Vendor Marketplace is key. Write down specific games you're targeting so you don't forget anything. Smart phones are handy for keeping your list in digital form. Many buyers keep a checklist of games they have for each system so they can quickly identify if a game will fill a hole in their collection. Ask vendors if they have a specific game you're looking for. Most vendors know their inventory and are happy to pull games and get you on your way to the next booth.


• Arrive early
  While the Expo opens to the public at 10:00 AM on Saturday, attendees who buy their passes online ahead of the Expo will gain entry 1 hour early at 9:00 AM. This extra hour can make the difference between getting that rare item or not! Arrive early so you have time to pick up your badge and get in line for the opening bell at 9:00 AM.


• Haggle
  Most vendors at PRGE are open to haggling on price, particularly if you are buying a quantity of merchandise. Haggling is a subtle art. Ask for a 50% discount on one game and you might risk offending the seller. On the other hand, it is common for sellers to discount the total price when you buy several items. It never hurts to ask! The worst that can happen is the seller says no.


• Payment methods
  More and more vendors are accepting credit cards via iPhone apps like Square, but it is always a safe bet to carry cash with you if you plan to buy. Cash in hand is a great motivator when haggling over price! There will be two ATM machines located in the show hall at the admissions desk.


• Carrying your finds
  You will be amazed how quickly you accumulate merchandise at the Expo. Smart shoppers will bring their own bag or backpack to carry their finds through the show. The show hall is right next to the parking garage where attendees can park for just $3 per day. (Be sure to ask for a parking slip at the admisisons desk to take advantage of this rate.) With your car nearby, it's easy to use your car trunk as a storage locker. Best to keep those game finds out of sight of prying eyes, however!


• Great deals on Sunday
  While the initial rush on Saturday in the Vendor Marketplace is exciting, Sunday is a great day to get some deals as well. Vendors are generally more willing to negotiate price on Sunday - especially as the end of the day approaches. If you were on the fence about an item on Saturday, be sure to take a walk around the Marketplace on Sunday to see if the item is still available. You might be suprised what kind of deal you can get!

That's it! Follow these tips to help ensure you have a fun and successful hunt at the Expo. Good luck!

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