This article lists games with average values of games you can still find in the wild. we did not include grails or super rare games or include games CIB, Graded, Or anything like that.
Collecting vintage video games and consoles has become an increasingly popular hobby, with some items fetching astonishing prices at auctions and online marketplaces. Whether you are a nostalgic gamer or a dedicated collector, knowing which games and consoles are the most valuable can be both fascinating and lucrative. Here, we explore the rarest and most valuable vintage video games by console type and delve into the history of each iconic system.
Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
Overview: The NES, released in 1985, revolutionized the video game industry with its advanced graphics and engaging gameplay. It introduced beloved franchises such as Mario, Zelda, and Metroid.
Top 5 Most Valuable Games:
- Stadium Events – Complete copies have sold for over $40,000 due to its limited release and subsequent recall.
- Nintendo World Championships – A rare competition cartridge with prices often exceeding $20,000.
- Bubble Bobble Part 2 – Highly sought after, with complete copies selling for around $1,500.
- Little Samson – Known for its rarity and gameplay quality, often fetching prices around $2,000.
- Bonk’s Adventure – A rare platformer that can sell for about $900 in mint condition.
Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
Overview: The SNES, launched in 1991, built on the success of the NES with improved graphics, sound, and a more extensive library of games. It is home to some of the most iconic titles in gaming history.
Top 5 Most Valuable Games:
- EarthBound (Boxed Set) – Complete boxed sets in excellent condition can fetch prices upwards of $3,000.
- Hagane: The Final Conflict – A rare title often selling for over $1,000.
- Mega Man X3 – Complete copies can reach prices of about $900.
- Ninja Gaiden Trilogy – This compilation of classic games often sells for around $700.
- Wild Guns – Highly sought after, with prices around $600 for complete copies.
SEGA Genesis
Overview: The SEGA Genesis, released in 1989, was known for its high-speed action games and arcade-quality graphics. It was a formidable competitor to the NES and SNES.
Top 5 Most Valuable Games:
- Musha – Complete copies selling for around $2,500 due to its limited production run.
- The Punisher – Rare and valued at about $400.
- Mega Man: The Wily Wars – A limited release that can sell for over $1,000.
- Tetris – An unlicensed version of the game that can fetch around $16,000.
- Crusader of Centy – Another valuable title, often selling for about $500.
PlayStation
Overview: Sony’s PlayStation, introduced in 1994, changed the landscape of gaming with its use of CD-ROM technology, which allowed for larger and more complex games. It became the first console to sell over 100 million units.
Top 5 Most Valuable Games:
- Suikoden II – Complete copies in excellent condition can reach prices of about $500.
- Castlevania: Symphony of the Night – A highly regarded game, often selling for around $300.
- Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete – Valued at about $200 for complete sets.
- Valkyrie Profile – Another rare title, fetching around $250.
- Tales of Destiny II – Sells for about $200.
Atari 2600
Overview: The Atari 2600, launched in 1977, is one of the earliest home video game consoles. Its simple yet addictive games laid the foundation for the home gaming industry.
Top 5 Most Valuable Games:
- Air Raid – Complete copies have sold for over $30,000 due to its rarity and unique cartridge design.
- Birthday Mania – Extremely rare, with copies valued at over $15,000.
- Gamma Attack – Another ultra-rare title, valued similarly to Birthday Mania.
- Superman (Sears Telegames version) – Sells for around $1,000.
- Atlantis II – Valued at about $6,000.
Nintendo 64 (N64)
Overview: Released in 1996, the N64 was the last major console to use cartridges. It is known for its groundbreaking 3D games and innovative controller design.
Top 5 Most Valuable Games:
- ClayFighter Sculptor’s Cut – Complete copies can sell for around $1,000.
- Super Bowling – A rare game, often selling for about $600.
- Worms: Armageddon – Fetches prices around $500.
- Snowboard Kids 2 – Sells for about $300.
- Bomberman 64: The Second Attack – Another rare title, valued at about $400.
Sega Dreamcast
Overview: The Sega Dreamcast, released in 1999, was ahead of its time with features like online play and a built-in modem. Despite its short lifespan, it has a cult following.
Top 5 Most Valuable Games:
- Cannon Spike – Complete copies fetching prices of around $400.
- Power Stone 2 – Valued at about $300.
- Skies of Arcadia – Another sought-after title, selling for around $250.
- Mars Matrix – A rare shooter, valued at about $200.
- Project Justice – Fetches prices around $200.
Xbox
Overview: The original Xbox, released in 2001, marked Microsoft’s entry into the console market. It was known for its powerful hardware and online capabilities through Xbox Live.
Top 5 Most Valuable Games:
- Steel Battalion – Known for its massive controller, complete sets can sell for over $300.
- OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast – A rare racing game, valued at about $150.
- Futurama – Sells for around $100.
- Jurassic Park: Operation Genesis – Fetches prices around $80.
- Marvel vs. Capcom 2 – Another valuable title, selling for about $70.
Wrapping Up:
Collecting vintage video games and consoles is not just about nostalgia; it can also be a rewarding investment. The value of these items continues to rise as more people enter the hobby and the supply of mint-condition games and consoles dwindles. Whether you are looking to relive the golden age of gaming or discover hidden treasures, the world of vintage video game collecting offers endless possibilities and excitement.