GameStop Just Classified Most Gamers’ Childhoods As “Retro”

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GameStop recently announced a change that’s likely to remind many gamers they’ve been around for a while. GameStop has always been a place to trade in used games and consoles, buying them at a low price and then reselling them for a profit. They also sell new games, collectibles, and merchandise. Recently, they updated what they will and won’t buy from customers, and the new policy is disappointing to a lot of people.

On March 16, 2026, GameStop announced on X (formerly Twitter) that the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Wii U are now considered “Retro Consoles.” This means if you enjoyed playing those systems, GameStop is playfully suggesting your childhood is officially a thing of the past – and maybe it’s time to think about those recommended health checkups! These consoles originally launched between 2005 and 2012. While a 20-year mark would seem logical for a “Retro” designation, GameStop’s inclusion of the Wii U suggests they’re using a different timeframe.

GameStop Classified 7th-Generation+ Consoles As “Retro”

The Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 were released in the same generation of consoles, but the Wii U came out in the next one. In a recent announcement, GameStop explained their decision to stop selling these older systems was based on three things: they use older component cables, Fortnite isn’t available on them, and they originally launched during George W. Bush’s presidency. While GameStop incorrectly stated Bush was president when the Wii U launched (it was actually Barack Obama), their point about the outdated cables is valid. These systems are simply too old to easily connect to modern TVs, making the decision understandable.

A Statement from GameStop

— GameStop (@gamestop) March 16, 2026

Beyond upsetting some Millennials, this GameStop decision actually benefits customers right now. They’re offering a 10% bonus in trade credit for any retro games or consoles. However, this deal ends today, March 21, 2026, so if you’re planning to trade anything in, you need to visit a GameStop store quickly to take advantage of the extra credit. They’re also now accepting broken consoles – as long as they still turn on.

So, GameStop sent out a memo about how they’re categorizing older consoles as “Retro,” and honestly, it felt a little…ageist? They realized calling all those consoles “Retro” might make people feel old, so they quickly added, “If you bought one when it first came out, you’re definitely not old!” Which, as a Millennial, I appreciated the attempt at humor. GameStop changes how they handle used games and consoles all the time, trying to stay relevant, and this is just another one of those changes. But still, it kinda hit me right in the feels!

Want to swap your old toys and collectibles for credit at GameStop? Share your thoughts and join the discussion in the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-03-21 17:40