GameStop Trade-In Value: How to Get the Most for Your Games
GameStop is a popular video game retailer that offers a trade-in program for customers looking to sell their used electronics. The program allows customers to receive cash or store credit in exchange for their old consoles, games, and accessories. The trade-in value varies depending on the item and its condition, but GameStop typically offers competitive prices.
Customers can trade in their electronics at select GameStop stores in the United States and Guam. The trade-in program is subject to certain restrictions and limitations, and GameStop reserves the right to cancel, terminate, modify, or suspend trades for any reason without notice.
However, if everything checks out, customers can expect to receive a fair price for their used items. In-store credit is typically worth 20% more than cash, unless otherwise indicated.

Understanding GameStop Trade-in Value
What is GameStop Trade-in Value?
GameStop Trade-in Value is the amount of money that GameStop is willing to pay for used electronics such as video games, consoles, and smartphones. GameStop offers two types of trade-in value: cash and store credit. The amount of trade-in value offered depends on the condition of the item being traded in, as well as the current demand for the item.
How is GameStop Trade-in Value Calculated?
GameStop Trade-in Value is calculated based on several factors, including the condition of the item, the current demand for the item, and the availability of the item in GameStop’s inventory. GameStop has a grading system to determine the condition of the item, which ranges from “Unopened” to “Defective.” The trade-in value offered for an item will vary depending on the condition of the item.
GameStop also offers bonus trade-in value for certain items. For example, they may offer extra trade-in value for a particular game or console when a new version of the game or console is released. GameStop also offers a PowerUp Rewards program, which provides members with extra trade-in value and other benefits.
It’s important to note that GameStop reserves the right to change their trade-in values at any time, without notice. Additionally, GameStop may refuse to accept certain items for trade-in, such as items that are damaged beyond repair.
In conclusion, understanding GameStop Trade-in Value is important for anyone looking to trade in their used electronics for cash or store credit. By understanding how GameStop calculates trade-in value and the factors that affect it, customers can make informed decisions about when and how to trade in their items.
Factors Affecting GameStop Trade-in Value
Condition of the Game
The condition of the game is one of the most important factors that determine its trade-in value at GameStop. The better the condition of the game, the higher the trade-in value. GameStop usually accepts games in three conditions: “New,” “Pre-Owned,” and “Defective.” New games are unopened and in their original packaging, while pre-owned games are used but in good condition. Defective games have some sort of damage or defect that prevents them from being played.
Popularity of the Game
The popularity of the game also plays a significant role in determining its trade-in value. Popular games that are in high demand will usually have a higher trade-in value than less popular games. For example, games like “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” and “Bayonetta 2” for the Nintendo Switch are highly popular and have a higher trade-in value than less popular games.
Age of the Game
The age of the game is another factor that affects its trade-in value. Generally, the older the game, the lower its trade-in value. However, some older games that are still popular may have a higher trade-in value than newer games that are less popular.
Competition from Other Games
Competition from other games can also affect a game’s trade-in value. If there are many copies of a particular game in stock at GameStop, its trade-in value may be lower due to the abundance of supply. Conversely, if there are few copies of a game available, its trade-in value may be higher due to the scarcity of supply.
In conclusion, several factors affect the trade-in value of games at GameStop, including the condition of the game, its popularity, its age, and competition from other games. It is important to keep these factors in mind when considering trading in a game at GameStop.
Maximizing GameStop Trade-in Value
When it comes to trading in video games, GameStop is one of the most popular options. However, getting the best trade-in value can be tricky. Here are some tips and tricks to help you maximize your GameStop trade-in value.
Tips for Getting the Best Trade-in Value
- Keep your games in good condition. GameStop will give you more money for games that are in good condition. Make sure to keep your games in their original cases and avoid scratches or other damage.
- Check the trade-in value before you go to the store. GameStop’s trade-in values are constantly changing, so it’s a good idea to check the value of your games before you go to the store. You can do this online or through the GameStop app.
- Trade in multiple games at once. GameStop often offers promotions where you can get extra credit when you trade in multiple games at once. This is a great way to maximize your trade-in value.
- Join the GameStop PowerUp Rewards program. Members of the program get extra trade-in credit and other perks.
Promotions and Offers to Look Out For
GameStop frequently offers promotions and special offers that can help you get more value for your trade-ins. Here are some promotions to look out for:
- Pre-order bonuses. GameStop often offers extra trade-in credit if you pre-order a game. This is a great way to get more value for your trade-ins.
- Trade-in bonuses. GameStop sometimes offers extra trade-in credit when you trade in certain games or consoles. Keep an eye out for these promotions.
- Membership bonuses. Members of the GameStop PowerUp Rewards program get extra trade-in credit and other perks. Make sure to sign up for the program to take advantage of these bonuses.
When to Trade-in Your Games
The best time to trade in your games is when GameStop is offering a promotion or special offer. Keep an eye out for these promotions and trade in your games when you can get the most value for them.
In general, it’s a good idea to trade in your games sooner rather than later. GameStop’s trade-in values tend to decrease over time, so you’ll get more value for your games if you trade them in sooner.
Overall, if you follow these tips and take advantage of GameStop’s promotions and offers, you can maximize your trade-in value and get more credit to spend on new games.

GameStop vs. EB Games Trade-in Value
Comparison of Trade-in Value
When it comes to trading in last-gen consoles, both GameStop and EB Games offer competitive trade-in values. However, there are some differences between the two retailers. GameStop is currently offering up to $300 in trade-in value on select PlayStation 4 consoles and up to $200 on select Xbox One consoles. On the other hand, EB Games is offering up to $449 in trade-in value on old PlayStation 4 consoles.
Below is a breakdown of the trade-in values offered by both retailers:
Console | GameStop Trade-in Value | EB Games Trade-in Value |
---|---|---|
PS4 Pro Console 1TB | $300 | $449.99 |
PS4 Slim 1TB | $250 | $299.99 |
PS4 Slim Console 500GB | $250 | $299.99 |
Xbox One X Console 1TB | $250 | N/A |
PS4 Original Console 500GB | $200 | $299.99 |
As seen in the table above, EB Games offers more value for the original PS4 console, while GameStop offers more value for the PS4 Pro and PS4 Slim consoles.

Which Store Offers Better Trade-in Value
Determining which store offers better trade-in value depends on the console being traded in. If the console being traded in is an original PS4, it would be more beneficial to trade it in at EB Games. However, if the console being traded in is a PS4 Pro or PS4 Slim, GameStop would offer more value.
It’s important to note that trade-in values may vary depending on the condition of the console, accessories included, and the demand for the console. It’s always a good idea to check the trade-in value of your console at both GameStop and EB Games to determine which retailer offers the better value.
In conclusion, both GameStop and EB Games offer competitive trade-in values for last-gen consoles. Depending on the console being traded in, one retailer may offer more value than the other. It’s important to do research and compare trade-in values to get the best deal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, GameStop’s trade-in program offers a great way for gamers to get value out of their old consoles and games. The program has its limits, such as only accepting certain items and having a cap on payouts per day, but overall it is a solid option for those looking to upgrade their gaming setup.
One factor to consider when trading in at GameStop is the tax implications. Depending on the state, sales tax may be applied to the trade-in value, reducing the overall payout. It is important to research the tax laws in your state before trading in to ensure that you are aware of any potential tax implications.
Another consideration is timing. GameStop occasionally offers promotions or sales that can increase the trade-in value, so it may be worth waiting for these opportunities to maximize the payout. However, it is also important to keep in mind that the value of items may decrease over time, so waiting too long could result in a lower payout.
Overall, GameStop’s trade-in program is a solid option for gamers looking to get value out of their old consoles and games. By researching tax laws and timing their trades, gamers can maximize their payouts and get the most out of their gaming setups.