If you’ve recently found some old NES games stored outdoors or in a garage, there’s a good chance that rust or grime has accumulated over time. NES cartridges, while durable, can suffer from rust on the metal contacts and general dirt build-up. Cleaning these properly is crucial to making them playable again. In this guide, we’ll show you how to get the rust off outside NES games, along with tips for cleaning old NES games in general.
Why NES Games Get Rusty
NES cartridges can accumulate rust due to prolonged exposure to moisture, especially if stored outdoors or in damp places like basements or garages. Rust typically forms on the metal contacts, which can interfere with the cartridge’s ability to connect properly to the console.
How to Get the Rust Off Outside NES Games
1. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies To safely remove rust from NES games, you’ll need:
- Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher)
- Q-tips or cotton swabs
- A soft toothbrush
- A pencil eraser
- Fine-grit sandpaper (optional for severe rust)
2. Start with Isopropyl Alcohol The first step is to clean the metal contacts. Dip a Q-tip in isopropyl alcohol and gently rub the rusted areas on the game’s metal connectors. The alcohol will break down some of the grime and mild rust. This step alone can sometimes make a noticeable difference.
3. Use a Pencil Eraser for Rust Removal For tougher rust spots, use the eraser on a pencil to rub the rusted metal contacts. The eraser’s mild abrasive properties can help lift the rust without damaging the metal underneath. Be gentle but thorough.
4. Use Fine-Grit Sandpaper for Severe Rust If the rust is still visible after using the alcohol and eraser, fine-grit sandpaper (around 600-800 grit) can be used carefully. Lightly sand the rusted areas to avoid wearing down the metal contacts. After sanding, clean the surface again with isopropyl alcohol to remove any residue.
5. Let the Cartridge Dry Completely After cleaning, let the NES cartridge dry fully before attempting to use it in your console. Isopropyl alcohol evaporates quickly, so this shouldn’t take long, but make sure no moisture remains before inserting it into the NES.
How to Clean Old NES Games
In addition to rust, old NES games stored outdoors or in less-than-ideal conditions might have other types of grime, like dust, dirt, or mold. Here’s how to give your old games a full cleaning:
1. Clean the Plastic Shell Use a soft, damp cloth and a small amount of mild soap to clean the outside of the NES cartridge. Be careful not to let any water get inside the cartridge through the label or cracks. Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth.
2. Clean the Game Label For dust and dirt on the game label, a microfiber cloth works well. Be gentle to avoid damaging the artwork or removing color from the label. Avoid using harsh chemicals on the label as this can lead to fading.
3. Remove Dust from Cartridge Slots If the cartridge slot is full of dust or dirt, compressed air can help blow out debris. Avoid sticking anything sharp inside the slot as this can damage the delicate pins inside.
Top Tips to Avoid Rust on NES Games
- Store Games Indoors: Avoid keeping NES games in damp places like basements, garages, or outdoors. Store them in a dry, climate-controlled area.
- Use Game Sleeves: NES games originally came with protective sleeves. If you still have these, use them to prevent dust and moisture from accumulating on the metal contacts.
- Avoid Moisture Exposure: Keep your games away from any area prone to leaks, humidity, or spills.
Old Games List Outdoor
If you’ve come across a list of old NES games while cleaning out a garage or storage shed, you might be surprised by what you find. NES games have a strong nostalgic value, and some are considered collectibles. Outdoor storage, however, can be tough on these games, especially due to rust and other weather-related damage. Classic NES titles like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid can be restored with careful cleaning, as outlined above, but it’s important to act quickly before rust becomes irreversible.
Final Thoughts
Restoring old NES games stored outdoors can be a rewarding process if done properly. With the right tools and careful cleaning, you can remove rust and grime, bringing these classic cartridges back to life. Always take care when cleaning metal contacts, as being too aggressive can damage them beyond repair. Following this guide will help you get the rust off your NES games and ensure they are playable for years to come.
FAQs
How do I clean old NES games?
To clean old NES games, use isopropyl alcohol for the metal contacts, a soft cloth for the plastic shell, and compressed air for dust. Avoid using harsh chemicals on the game label.
What old games are valuable?
Some classic NES games, especially rare titles or those in good condition, can be highly valuable. Titles like Super Mario Bros., Zelda, and Metroid often hold their value well.
Can rust on NES games be removed?
Yes, rust on NES games can be removed using isopropyl alcohol, a pencil eraser, or fine-grit sandpaper for severe cases. Be sure to clean gently to avoid damaging the game contacts.
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