GameStop to experiment with retro game and console trade-ins

GameStop is going to experiment with accepting and selling used retro consoles, accessories and video games.

The popular retail chain revealed this upcoming trade-in program to IGN, where it noted that this will begin as an experiment across roughly 250 locations in New York City and Birmingham, Alabama.

IGN reported that starting on 25th April participating locations will accept video game goods dating all the way back to the NES era. If the program is successful, GameStop hopes to expand it nationwide by the end of the year.

GameStop assured users that it will only sell retro goods that are in tested, working order. "We will bring all of the product back through the Refurbishment Operations Center for inspection, testing and repair," the retailer told IGN. It also noted that older consoles will "have the same warranty as current used and refurbished consoles."

There will be roughly two months between when GameStop begins accepting retro trade-ins and when it starts selling them. This will allow the chain "time to build up a good assortment for retro games fans to select from when shopping."

The vintage goods won't be taking up precious shelf space at brick & mortar stores, however. Rather they'll be sold through the GameStop website or through its pick-up-at-store system.