How to Clean NES and Genesis Game Cartridges

Cartridge-based games rely on two pieces of metal making physical contact with each other in order to carry the signal between the game and the console.  This is why any build-up of innert material, such as dust, on those contact points will act like a physical barrier preventing the game and system from communicating with each other.  The older the game, the more likely this issue will occur.

Otherwise, cartridge-based games are incredibly resilient and tend not to fail for any other reason; if the cartridge appears to be in good shape it will almost certainly work once cleaned. 

What you need:

• 70-95% Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol
• Q-Tips
• 2 minutes

Looking at the bottom of the cartridge (the side that is inserted into the console) you will notice there is a circuit board in the center with tiny metal strips on either side.  Apply the rubbing alcohol to a Q-Tip (bunching 2-3 side by side tends to be more efficient) and swab both sides of the board.  Alcohol evaporates very quickly so don't be afraid of getting the contacts too wet, using a little more will actually break up any detritus faster and speed the process along.  What you are trying to do is polish the metal contacts, so continue to swab each side vigorously until the Q-Tips are no longer being stained black or gray.  Replace Q-Tips as they become dirty or if they start to break apart.  Once the Q-Tips are no longer coming out dirty you should wait a moment for any remaining alcohol the board to evaporate.  Take a clean, dry Q-Tip and vigorously scrape it across each side of the board, if it comes out clean you're done!

Games this method will work for:

• Atari 2600 Games
• Atari 5200 Games
• Atari Jaguar Games
• Nintendo NES Games
• Super Nintendo SNES Games
• Nintendo 64 N64 Games
• Sega Genesis Games
• Sega 32X Games
• GameBoy Games
• Sega Game Gear Games