← BACK TO SHOP

How I Test Every Console Before It Ships

BEHIND THE SCENES — BY THE FOUNDER

When you buy a console from RetroRevive, you're not getting something that was glanced at and thrown in a box. Every single unit goes through a proper hands-on testing process before it gets listed. Here's exactly what that looks like.

🔍 THE FULL CHECKLIST

Every console — whether it's a DSi, 3DS, or Game Boy — goes through the same core process:

  • Cartridge slot test: I insert a game cartridge and confirm it reads, loads, and plays correctly. If it's a DS/3DS, I test both the game card slot and (where applicable) the SD card slot.
  • Button check: Every single button is tested — D-pad, face buttons (A, B, X, Y), shoulder buttons (L, R, ZL, ZR where applicable), Start, Select, Home, and the circle pad / C-stick. Nothing gets skipped.
  • Screen inspection: Both screens are checked for dead pixels, scratches, discolouration, and backlight bleed. I assess whether the screens are IPS or TN panels on relevant models and note this where it matters.
  • Touch screen: On DS and 3DS models, the touch screen is tested for responsiveness and accuracy across the full surface area using the stylus.
  • Hinge check: For clamshell models, I test the hinge at every click position to make sure it holds firm and doesn't wobble or feel loose.
  • Wi-Fi connectivity: I connect to Wi-Fi to confirm the wireless module is working. This matters for online features, system updates, and the eShop.
  • Speaker and microphone: Audio output is tested through the built-in speakers, and the headphone jack is checked on models that have one.
  • Camera test: On DSi and 3DS models, both the front and rear cameras are tested to confirm they capture images correctly.
  • 3D slider: On 3DS models, the 3D depth slider is tested across its full range to confirm the stereoscopic effect works smoothly.
  • Battery check: The console is charged and tested for reasonable battery life. If a battery is noticeably degraded, it's noted in the listing.
  • Cosmetic assessment: I inspect the shell for scratches, scuffs, and wear. Any notable cosmetic issues are described honestly in the listing — I don't hide anything.

🛡️ THE WARRANTY

Because I test everything myself, I'm confident enough to offer a 30-day functionality warranty on every console I sell. If something stops working within 30 days of delivery that isn't caused by misuse or accidental damage, I'll make it right — whether that's a repair, replacement, or refund.

💡 This isn't a faceless warranty from a big corporation. It's a personal guarantee from me. If something's wrong, you message me directly and we sort it out.

📦 BEFORE IT SHIPS

Once a console passes testing, I give it a final clean, pair it with a USB charger and stylus (for DS/3DS models), write a personal game recommendation card for that specific console, and pack it carefully for shipping. The goal is that when you open the box, it feels like someone cared about what they sent you — because I did.