jfe2 wrote:I really only buy to play. CIB is optional in my case.
I'm usually in the same camp. But I will always go back to GameStop for an original box and manual if the original purchase didn't include it.
I am fairly proud of the 2600 CIB games I've kept in great condition for over 30 years (well, 20 years, my Father kept the games in great condition for the first 10 years).
I strongly prefer CIB if the game originally came in a clamshell or jewel case of some sort--so, CD and DVD games, as well as the older Sega consoles, I'll try to get CIB if I can. The later are still okay loose, but CIB is preferred. Other old cartridge games, CIB is just a nice bonus if I chance across it at a good price randomly, but I don't go looking.
For current and last gen systems i really don't want a game if it doesn't at least have the case. I can live without the manual if its a good deal, but CIB is what i want. I wont buy disk only games if i can't find the box.
For Saturn, Nes, and SNES games I don't really care if the box is there or not. I like the old Saturn boxes, but their in such bad shape most of the time.
I do like to get Genesis games with their cases if at all possible, but most of the time i will settle for game only.
I try to be flexible, and the cover project can make up for a lot of these issues.
of course i wish to have boxes for all my cartridge base system., but so far im just worried about getting my Genesis games in boxes. As for Snes and N64 games , it only mattesr to me if the game is something that like, rare or not.
I only collect CIB if the packaging was designed to contain everything and be complete (disc-based games, DS games, etc.) and if they're games I like and am actively collecting (Super Famicom, Japanese GB/GBC)
for me, video games have grown into something more than just playing.
i actually enjoy the collecting aspect very much. games aren't just for playing. anything cd i want CIB and i want a minimum of box only for cartridge games.
and the only games i actually buy anymore are sega cd, saturn, and genesis.