What makes a collection display really wow you?

[peg | 370]

Arcade machines will top just about anything.  If it looks like an actual arcade from the early 90s that would be unbeatable.

[fcgamer | 4,719]

I definitely prefer seeing unique collections as well. That's why I enjoy pirates, and homebrew, and stuff like that. I consider it like a spice on food. Even collecting for obscure systems is something I love. Everyone that just goes after the generic popular sets, then throws then on IKEA shelves, yeah it's a snoozefest to me.

Similarly, I actually like cluttered collections, but only to some extent. I see it sort of like a cluttered desk, just enough makes it look interesting and makes me what to explore every nook and cranny of your collection. 

[Bearcat-Doug | 5,104]

I went with rare items. I like to see cool stuff no matter how it's displayed.

[RegularGuyGamer | 2,011]

I think I've been jaded by how many collections I've seen over the years, both rise and fall.

I chose organization overall. I think it was the late Jobber who had his game room set up more or less like a rental store. I think that type of attention to detail makes the collection stand out. Twiz comes to mind as well with his various collection displays over the years.

Also, I feel like putting constraints on a collection makes it more appealing as well. If someone collects everything without focus, the collection reflects that. Full sets as constraints explain why there's filler titles in the collection as well.

I'm also more impressed by quality over quantity. Don't get me wrong, a wall of CIB NES games impresses the hell out of me but 1000 PS2 / 360 / Wii filler titles kind of makes me roll my eyes. Even a large wall of NES cart only games that are more or less filler doesn't do it for me, it just comes off trying to fit the aesthetic of a collection.

Collections that highlight childhood favorites, specific genres, specific regions, and other niche aspects of gaming make a person's collection into their collection. A collection should be a reflection of the collector and I'm always impressed by collections that show the uniqueness of the collector, rather than just a wall of games.

[attakid101 | 267]

I’ll echo @RegularGuyGamer

Instagram collections don’t do it for me. Scooping every game at your local thrift store just to stack your shelves for the camera is weak. 

I prefer a tight, thoughtfully curated collection of classic/fun/rare titles.

I’m also a fan of advertising pieces—kiosks, signs, posters, banners, standees, etc. These items are legitimately hard to find.

Some of these display items take years to find. Whereas 90% of games can be had with an eBay account and a wallet.

[captmorgandrinker | 1,649]

Even though Empire would never approve, I'm a big fan of my signed stuff.  

I voted for the obscure/unique option as I've seen plenty of just "big" collections.  Displayed properly they're all impressive, but the unique stuff sets you apart.

[Matthewnimmo | 113]

My answer to OP’s question “to have the collection actually completed” lol. I then shall be wowed. Low bar for me i guess

[cartman | 195]

For me it is advertising materials like signs and such