Online Game Trading, Ratings, and Where to Sell Your Old Games (Updated 2025)

The article explains ESRB ratings and parental controls, clarifies that digital game purchases are generally non-resalable, and summarizes places to sell or trade physical games in 2025 (GameStop, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, buyback services). It also covers console compatibility and tips to maximize resale value.

Are you "online trading games" crazy?

Many of us buy the latest releases the day they drop and spend hours playing. That enthusiasm can feel like an addiction at times, but it's also part of what makes gaming a big, diverse hobby.

Ratings and content: what parents should check

The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) still provides age ratings and content descriptors for most boxed and many digital games. Look for the rating symbol (E, T, M, etc.) and the content descriptors that explain violence, language, sexual content, or gambling-like mechanics.

Most modern consoles and stores also include parental controls. PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch let parents restrict purchases, limit play time, and block age-inappropriate content. Use those settings along with ESRB guidance to match games to a child's maturity.

Physical vs. digital: resale realities

The market has shifted strongly toward digital distribution. Physical discs and cartridges still trade hands, but many new releases and indie titles are digital-only. That matters for resale: physical copies can be sold or traded; most digital storefront purchases (Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, Nintendo eShop) are tied to an account and cannot legally be resold.

If you have physical discs or cartridges, options include trade-in programs and peer-to-peer sales. GameStop still operates trade-ins for consoles, games, and accessories. Online marketplaces like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and specialized buyback services (e.g., Decluttr) let you sell directly. Prices vary by demand, platform, and condition.

Consoles and compatibility

Games are often platform-specific. Modern examples: PlayStation 5 (including the disc and digital editions), Xbox Series X|S (Series S is digital-focused), and Nintendo Switch (cartridge-based). Backward compatibility differs: PS5 runs many PS4 titles; Xbox Series consoles support many Xbox One and earlier titles; Switch does not natively play older Nintendo cartridge formats.

Tips to get the best return

• Keep original cases, manuals, and UPC codes when possible.

• Check current buy/trade prices on multiple sites before shipping.

• Clean discs/cartridges and describe any scratches honestly.

• For high-value or collector editions, consider auction platforms rather than instant-trade services.

Final note

You don't need to hold on to every game. Physical copies remain the most straightforward to resell or trade. For digital purchases, treat the license as permanent access rather than resaleable property. Use ESRB ratings and console parental controls to keep younger players in appropriate games and manage play time responsibly.