This past weekend, the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre transformed into a vibrant hub of consumerism, hosting Collect Fest, an event that showcased an eclectic mix of stalls backed by eBay. The atmosphere was electric, with enthusiasts gathering to explore a myriad of collectibles ranging from sneakers to vintage film reels. However, amidst the bustling booths, one notable absence was the representation of PC gaming hardware, which left many attendees, including myself, feeling somewhat underwhelmed.
Modded Handhelds Take Center Stage
As I navigated through the sea of Pokémon cards and retro gaming paraphernalia, my hopes of uncovering a hidden cache of vintage PC hardware quickly faded. Instead, the event was dominated by a plethora of modded Nintendo handhelds, including GameBoys and DS units, which were prominently displayed at various stalls. These devices, enhanced with stunning OLED screens and selling for prices ranging from 0 to 0, captured the attention of collectors and casual fans alike.
At Nexus Toys and Collectables, I inquired about the best-selling items, and it became clear that these modded handhelds were the stars of the show. Stallholders shared anecdotes of enthusiastic buyers, including one young woman who spent over ,000 on a collection of old handhelds. The consensus among vendors was unmistakable: Nintendo’s portable devices were the clear favorites among attendees.
In contrast, when I broached the topic of PC hardware and software, the response was less enthusiastic. Many stallholders cited a lack of demand and the high costs associated with stocking PC gear as reasons for its minimal presence. The prevailing sentiment was that most PC games remain accessible through digital downloads, leaving only a few iconic titles, such as Half-Life, in demand for physical copies.
As I continued my exploration, I encountered a diverse array of comics and tabletop gaming items, alongside an overwhelming quantity of Pokémon cards. Yet, the absence of PC gaming memorabilia was palpable. For those seeking Nintendo collectibles, retro consoles, or trading cards, Collect Fest proved to be a treasure trove. However, for aficionados of PC hardware and software, the event may not have met expectations.
