1. Is IdlePA free to use?
Yes, IdlePA offers a free version with all the core features
necessary for tracking and managing your board game collection.
You can log games, organize expansions, create wishlists, and
view your collection from any device. For power users, we offer
an optional IdlePA Pro tier that unlocks advanced tools like
pricing history, insurance exports, and multi-user collection
access. However, we've ensured that even the free version
delivers real value without feeling restricted. There are no
hidden fees or forced upgrades. You can upgrade or downgrade
your plan at any time. The free plan is ideal for most casual
collectors and even small groups.
2. Can I import my existing collection from other platforms?
Absolutely. IdlePA supports imports from BoardGameGeek using
either your BGG username or exported collection file. Once
imported, the system automatically links metadata, images, and
expansions where available. You can also bulk edit entries and
add custom tags to match your organization style. If you've
previously tracked your collection in Excel or Google Sheets,
our CSV import tool allows easy migration. We designed the
import system to be fast, accurate, and flexible. Most users can
be fully set up in under 15 minutes, even with large
collections.
3. How does the trade alert feature work?
The trade alerts basically do the work for you - when someone has what you want, you'll know about it. When you mark a game or expansion as “Available for Trade,” it’s quietly indexed and matched with other users who have the item on their wishlist. If a match occurs, both parties are notified privately. You can then message each other through IdlePA or take the conversation offline. Don't worry - your collection stays private unless you want to share it. Trade alerts are updated in real-time, so you’re always in the loop.
4. Can I manage expansions separately from base games?
Yes - managing expansions is a key feature of IdlePA. When you
add a base game, IdlePA automatically suggests all known
expansions, categorized by type and compatibility. You can log
each one separately, mark whether it's owned or on your
wishlist, and even track house rules specific to an expansion.
Expansions are grouped under the base game but maintain
individual metadata, such as release year, publisher, and
playtime variations. This makes it easy to find what's missing
or to identify versions when trading. Whether you own standalone
expansions or mini add-ons, IdlePA can handle both.
5. What makes IdlePA different from other collection tools?
We made this just for board games. Not your comic collection, not your movie library - just games. Its structure reflects the real-life nuances of tabletop gaming: expansions, editions, storage, group play, trade cycles, and play stats. The best part? You don't have to babysit it. Set it up once and it just... works in the background. You can set it and forget it, while still receiving trade alerts, shelf planning reminders, or wishlist restocks. It also includes visual tools like the Shelf Space Visualizer, something rarely seen in similar apps. The goal isn’t just to track — it’s to enhance your relationship with your collection.
6. Can I share my collection with others?
Yes, you can make your collection public or share it privately
with a custom link. This is great for game night planning, gift
suggestions, or trading. You can control what's visible - just
your owned games, wishlist, or even play stats. Some users link
their IdlePA profile on social media or local forums to help
coordinate events. For couples, roommates, or clubs, there's
also a shared collection mode in the Pro version. It ensures
everyone sees one unified collection, updated in real-time.
7. Will IdlePA help me plan shelf space or storage?
Yes, and that’s one of our most loved tools. The Shelf Space Visualizer lets you input your shelf dimensions and drag-and-drop boxes based on their real size. This helps you plan your game wall, travel crates, or even compact storage in limited spaces. You can sort by frequency of play, box size, or even create virtual “zones” like party games, RPGs, and Euros. The visual system is especially useful when deciding which games to move, box, or trade. It’s a practical feature with real-world impact.
8. What happens if I stop using IdlePA? Will I lose my data?
No, your data stays safe. IdlePA automatically backs up your collection and play history to your account. If you take a break or stop using the platform, your collection remains intact and accessible anytime you return. You can also export your data at any time as a CSV or JSON file, ensuring full ownership and portability. Look, we don't want to trap you here - your stuff should be yours. We'd rather you stick around because you actually like using it, not because you're stuck with us.