Where can you sell video games?

It depends on what you're selling. Used physical games can be traded in at stores like GameStop or sold to other players on marketplaces such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace or Mercari. Games you've developed can be published on Steam, itch.io, the Epic Games Store, GOG or console stores. Digital games you bought generally can't be resold, because you own a license tied to your account.

Selling used games you own

• Trade-in at a store. Fast and safe, but you usually get the lowest price, often as store credit.
• Online marketplaces. eBay and similar sites reach collectors and usually pay more, especially for retro and limited editions. You handle shipping and fees.
• Local selling. Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or local game shops avoid shipping costs. Meet in a public place.
• Bundles. Consoles sold with games often fetch more than items sold separately.

Watch for payment scams: fake payment screenshots, overpayment "refunds" and buyers who want you to ship before the money arrives.

Publishing your own game

• Steam. The largest PC store. Steam Direct charges a recoupable fee per game, and Valve takes a revenue share that starts at 30% and drops for very high-earning games.
• itch.io. Free to publish, and developers choose the revenue share they give the platform. Popular for indie and experimental games.
• Epic Games Store. A lower standard revenue share (12%) and curated entry.
• GOG. Curated, DRM-free store focused on PC games.
• Consoles. PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo stores require registering as a developer and getting dev kits.
• Mobile. Apple App Store and Google Play, with a standard cut of up to 30% and reduced rates for smaller developers.

FAQ

Can I sell my digital Steam games?

No. Steam licenses aren't transferable. You can sell some in-game items and trading cards on the Steam Community Market, but the money goes to your Steam Wallet.

Why does Steam hold funds after a Market sale?

Steam may place a temporary hold on items or trades to protect accounts from theft, especially if Steam Guard Mobile Authenticator isn't enabled.

How much does it cost to publish on Steam?

There's a one-time Steam Direct fee per game (it has been $100), which Valve returns once the game earns enough sales.

What is the Epic Games Store's commission?

The standard revenue share is 12%.