Calling all classic gamers! Remember the pixelated joy of blowing on dusty cartridges and the iconic controller designs of yesteryear? Well, dig out your old consoles from the back of the closet because GameStop is taking a trip down memory lane with the nationwide launch of Retro GameStops. As the demand for classic consoles and vintage games resurges, these specialty stores aims to bring back the joy of gaming’s golden eras, offering everything from rare titles to beloved consoles of the past. Read on to learn more about Retro Gamestops and where you can find one.
What are Retro GameStops?
Retro GameStops are specialized GameStop stores that focus on selling older consoles and games. These stores are designed to cater to gamers who enjoy classic titles and retro gaming experiences.
The launch of Retro GameStops was officially announced earlier this week on Twitter, where the consumer electronics retailer excitedly shared, “THE CLASSICS ARE BACK. New Retro GameStops are now spawning near you.”
THE CLASSICS ARE BACK.
New Retro GameStops are now spawning near you: https://t.co/m42FevuQaY pic.twitter.com/79PloFFiOx
— GameStop (@gamestop) August 27, 2024
While the concept is new, Retro GameStops are primarily rebranded versions of existing GameStop stores. This allows the company to leverage its existing infrastructure while catering to the growing demand for retro gaming products.
Although the company hasn’t disclosed the exact number of stores that will become Retro GameStops or if this is a permanent shift, the move is a testament to the enduring popularity of classic gaming.
What to Expect at Retro GameStops
From Nintendo’s iconic systems like the NES, SNES, and N64 to PlayStation and Xbox, these stores will have a variety of classic hardware to choose from. Accompanying these consoles will be a collection of timeless games that defined their respective eras. The stores are expected to have a retro-themed atmosphere, evoking a sense of nostalgia for gamers who grew up with these systems.
Below is the list of old consoles that will be available at Retro GameStops at launch:
- Nintendo DS
- Wii
- Wii U
- Super Nintendo Entertainment System
- Nintendo Entertainment System
- Nintendo 64
- Nintendo Gamecube
- Game Boy
- Game Boy Advance
- Play Station
- PS2 (PlayStation 2)
- PS3 (PlayStation 3)
- PS Vita (PlayStation Vita)
- SEGA Genesis
- SEGA Saturn
- Dreamcast
- Xbox
- Xbox 360
It’s worth noting that Atari platforms aren’t currently listed, but it’s possible that they might be added to the retro offerings in the future.
How to Find a Retro GameStop Near You
GameStop has made it easier for gamers to find their nearest Retro GameStop store. The company has introduced a new retro store locator on its website.
To find a Retro GameStop near you, simply visit the GameStop website and click on “Find A Retro Store.” You’ll then be prompted to enter your ZIP code and specify a search radius. The locator will provide you with a list of nearby stores that have dedicated retro gaming sections.
While a comprehensive list of all Retro GameStop locations isn’t available yet, initial searches reveal that stores like the University Mall GameStop in South Burlington, Vermont, and the GameStop in the Upper Valley Shopping Center in West Lebanon, New Hampshire, have already made the transition.
An employee at the University Mall GameStop confirmed to NBC5 that the store has converted a portion of its space into a retro gaming area. They are currently selling titles for several classic systems and are working on stocking games for other popular consoles, such as the Super Nintendo and Nintendo 64.