The Video Game Cavern in Columbia: What to Expect When You Visit

A retro and modern game store in Columbia's Five Points neighborhood

The Video Game Cavern is a brick-and-mortar game store located in Columbia's Five Points district, carrying both vintage and current video games, consoles, and related merchandise. The shop specializes in retro systems—cartridge-based games from the 1980s and 1990s—alongside newer releases and hardware. If you're hunting for a specific title from decades past or browsing what's currently available, this is a physical space where you can handle items before buying, ask staff about condition and pricing, and sometimes find rare or hard-to-locate games.

Five Points itself is Columbia's oldest commercial neighborhood, known for independent shops, local restaurants, and a walkable street layout. The Cavern fits into that character—it's the kind of place where you can spend an afternoon exploring, then grab lunch nearby without leaving the area.

Key Takeaways

• The Video Game Cavern stocks both retro systems (NES, SNES, Genesis, Game Boy) and modern consoles, so you can shop across decades in one visit.
• You can inspect games and hardware in person before purchasing, which matters when buying used or vintage items where condition affects playability and value.
• The store is located in Five Points, a walkable neighborhood with other shops, cafes, and restaurants within a short walk.
• Staff can answer questions about game compatibility, console condition, and whether a particular title is in stock or can be ordered.

What games and systems you'll find there

The Cavern carries cartridge-based systems including the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Super Nintendo (SNES), Sega Genesis, Game Boy, and Nintendo 64. You'll also find games for those platforms—both common titles and harder-to-find releases. The selection changes based on what comes in, so a game you're looking for might be there one week and gone the next, or might arrive after you've visited.

Alongside retro stock, the store carries current-generation consoles and games—PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch—so you're not limited to older systems. This mix means a parent shopping for their child's birthday present and a collector hunting for a 1987 cartridge can both find what they need in the same store.

Condition varies. Some games are in near-mint shape with original boxes; others are loose cartridges or discs with wear. Staff can tell you what condition a particular item is in and what that means for playability. Pricing reflects condition and rarity—a common game in average condition costs less than the same title in mint condition with original packaging.

How to get there and what to bring

The Video Game Cavern is in Five Points, the neighborhood bounded roughly by Devine Street, Sumter Street, and Harden Street in central Columbia. Street parking is available along the surrounding blocks, though it can fill during busy times. The neighborhood is walkable, so if you're visiting other Five Points shops or restaurants, you can park once and explore on foot.

Bring cash or a card—most independent game stores accept both, though it's worth confirming when you call ahead. If you're trading in games or systems, bring them in their current condition; staff will evaluate them and let you know what they can offer. If you're hunting for something specific, calling ahead saves a trip—the staff can tell you whether they have it in stock or when they might expect it.

Pricing and what affects the cost

Retro games and systems are priced based on rarity, condition, and current market demand. A common NES game in average condition might cost $20 to $40; a rare title or one in excellent condition with original box could be significantly more. Modern games and consoles are typically priced competitively with national retailers, though independent stores sometimes offer different pricing on used items.

If you're selling or trading games to the store, they'll evaluate what you bring and make an offer. Trade-in value is usually lower than retail price—the store needs to resell the item and account for condition and demand. Asking staff what they're currently looking for can help you understand what might have value to them.

Why visit in person instead of ordering online

Buying retro games online means relying on photos and descriptions to judge condition. In person, you can open a game case, inspect the cartridge or disc, check for scratches or damage, and see exactly what you're getting. For vintage items where condition directly affects whether the game will play, that matters.

You also get immediate answers to questions—whether a particular game works on a specific console, what the differences are between versions, whether a system has been tested. Staff at a dedicated game store know the hardware and can troubleshoot or explain compatibility in ways a general retailer cannot. And if you're new to retro gaming, browsing in person lets you ask what's worth playing or what systems are beginner-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do they buy used games and systems?

Yes, most game stores purchase used inventory from customers. Bring what you want to sell or trade, and staff will evaluate condition and make an offer. Trade-in value is typically lower than retail price because the store needs to resell the item. Call ahead to ask what they're currently looking for.

What if I'm looking for a game they don't have in stock?

Call or visit and describe what you're hunting for. Staff can tell you whether they expect to receive it, can order it, or can point you toward similar titles they do have. Rare or out-of-print games may take time to locate, and prices vary widely depending on rarity.

Are the retro games may provide to work?

Staff can tell you the condition of a game and whether a system has been tested, but ask before you buy. Some stores offer a short return window if something doesn't work as described. Confirm the store's return or warranty policy when you purchase.

Can I find modern games there too?

Yes, the Cavern carries current-generation consoles and games alongside retro stock. You can shop for both new releases and vintage titles in the same visit.

Is Five Points easy to navigate if I'm not from Columbia?

Five Points is a compact, walkable neighborhood with street parking. Once you park, you can explore shops and restaurants on foot. If you need directions, staff at the Cavern or nearby businesses can point you toward other spots in the area.