Island Video & Ice Cream: A Retro Game Rental Shop in South Carolina

What Island Video & Ice Cream offers

Island Video & Ice Cream is a video game rental shop in South Carolina that combines two things people actually want to do on the same trip: rent classic and newer games, and grab ice cream while you're there. The shop stocks games across multiple systems—cartridge-based consoles, disc-based systems, and handheld platforms—so whether you're looking for something from the 1980s or last year, there's a real chance it's on the shelf. You rent by the game, not by subscription, which means you pay for what you take home and return it by a set date.

The ice cream counter makes this place different from a mail-order rental service or a digital storefront. You can browse the game collection, pick out what you want to play, and walk out with a cone or cup while you're at it. It's the kind of errand that doesn't feel like an errand—more like a destination you'd actually want to visit, especially if you're in the area with family or friends who have different interests.

Key Takeaways

• Island Video & Ice Cream rents games across multiple console generations, from retro systems to current platforms, with rental periods and return dates you agree to at checkout.
• The shop is a physical location where you browse in person, handle the games before you rent them, and can ask staff about what's worth playing.
• Ice cream is available on-site, so you can combine a game rental trip with a snack without making two stops.
• Rental fees and deposit requirements vary by game and system, so it's worth asking about pricing when you call or visit.

How game rental works at Island Video & Ice Cream

You walk in, look through the inventory organized by system, and pick the game you want. At checkout, the staff will tell you the rental fee, any deposit required, and when the game is due back. Most rental shops charge by the day or by a multi-day period—three days is common—and you pay the fee upfront. If you return the game late, there's usually a late fee per day, so it's worth writing down the due date or setting a phone reminder.

Because this is an in-person shop, you can ask the staff what they'd recommend, whether a game actually works (they test rentals), and what condition the cartridge or disc is in before you leave. That matters more with older games, where wear and tear is visible. You're not ordering sight-unseen from a website; you're making a choice based on what's actually in front of you.

What systems and games are typically available

Retro game rental shops usually stock Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Super Nintendo (SNES), Sega Genesis, Nintendo 64, and GameCube cartridges and discs. Many also carry PlayStation, PlayStation 2, Dreamcast, and handheld systems like Game Boy and Nintendo DS. The exact inventory changes—games get rented out, new stock comes in, and older titles sometimes sell rather than rent—so what's on the shelf on any given day depends on what's been returned and what the shop has sourced recently.

The appeal of renting rather than buying is that you can try a game before committing money to owning it, especially for older titles that can cost $30 to $100 or more if you're buying used. A three-day rental might cost $3 to $8 depending on the game and system, which is a much lower barrier to testing whether you actually like something.

Location and hours

Island Video & Ice Cream operates as a brick-and-mortar shop, so you'll need to visit in person during their business hours. Hours and exact location details change, so calling ahead or checking their current information before you go is the practical move—especially if you're planning a trip specifically to rent a particular game. Some shops close on certain days of the week or have seasonal hours, so a quick phone call saves a wasted trip.

If you're in the area for other reasons—shopping, dining, or just exploring—it's worth stopping by to see what's in stock. The combination of game rental and ice cream makes it a casual destination rather than a purely transactional errand.

Deposits and late fees

Most game rental shops require a deposit when you rent, which you get back when you return the game in good condition. The deposit protects the shop if a game gets damaged or lost. Deposits typically range from $5 to $20 depending on the game's value and rarity, though some shops waive deposits for regular customers or for newer, more common titles.

Late fees are usually charged per day after the due date. If you're a day or two late, you might owe $1 to $3 extra; if you're significantly late, the shop may charge you the full replacement cost of the game instead of continuing to rack up daily fees. It's worth asking about the late fee structure when you rent so you know what you're on the hook for if you miss the deadline.

Condition and care expectations

When you rent a game, the shop expects it back in the same condition you received it. That means the cartridge or disc should work, the case shouldn't be cracked, and you shouldn't have written on the label. Normal wear from playing is usually fine—the shop knows games get used—but if you spill something on it, drop it, or the disc stops reading, you may be charged for damage.

Before you leave the shop, it's smart to test the game right there if possible, or at least inspect it carefully so you know what condition it's in. That way, if there's already a problem, you can point it out and the shop can note it, protecting you from being charged for damage you didn't cause.

Why rent instead of buy or stream

Renting makes sense if you want to play a game once or twice without owning it forever. Older games can be expensive to buy used, and streaming services don't always have the exact title you're looking for. A rental lets you experience the game, decide if you like it enough to own it, and move on without the shelf space or the cost.

For collectors or people who replay games regularly, owning makes more sense. But for casual players, people trying a new genre, or anyone curious about a specific title, renting is the practical choice. Island Video & Ice Cream serves that middle ground—people who want to play something specific without the commitment of a purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a membership to rent games?

Most video game rental shops require some form of registration or membership, though it's usually free or a small one-time fee. You'll typically need to provide your name, address, and phone number so the shop can contact you if a rental is overdue. Ask when you visit or call whether there's a membership fee and what information you need to bring.

What happens if a game doesn't work when I get home?

If you discover a problem after you leave, call the shop right away. Many shops will let you exchange it for a different game or give you a refund on the rental fee if the problem was their fault. That's why it's helpful to test the game at the shop before you leave, but if you can't, reporting the issue quickly gives you the best chance of a fair resolution.

Can I reserve a game if it's currently rented out?

Some shops hold games on reserve for customers, though policies vary. Call ahead and ask if you're looking for a specific title that might not be in stock. The shop can tell you when it's due back and may be able to set it aside for you when it's returned.

Is the ice cream made on-site or pre-packaged?

That depends on the shop's setup. Some locations make ice cream fresh, while others serve pre-packaged options. Call or visit to see what they offer—it's worth knowing if you have dietary preferences or allergies.

What should I bring when I rent a game?

Bring a valid ID and a payment method (cash or card, depending on what they accept). If it's your first time, you may need to provide an address and phone number for their records. Ask when you call what they need so you're prepared when you arrive.