Rare Classic Video Game Consoles from the Past Command High Prices, Driving Up Their Values to a Staggering 70,000 Euros Each
The world of classic video games, particularly those from Nintendo and the Pokémon series, has become a thriving market for collectors. These sought-after titles, often fetching prices in the thousands, are characterised by their rarity, historical significance, and strong nostalgic appeal.
One of the most prized Nintendo games is *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time* for the Nintendo 64. Recognised as one of the greatest video games ever made, its historical and gameplay significance boosts its value[1]. Other classic Nintendo games, such as *Super Mario Bros.* and *Donkey Kong*, from the NES and SNES era, also command high prices, especially rare variants or sealed copies[4].
In the Pokémon realm, games from the Game Boy era, such as *Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow*, are among the most sought-after. Complete-in-box versions with original packaging and manuals fetch premium prices, though specific details about the packaging were not provided in the search results[2]. Notable sales include *Pokémon Red*, which sold for $84,000 at an auction (approximately €80,000), and *Pokémon Yellow* for $78,000 (approximately €71,500)[3].
The value of these classic games is influenced by several factors. Condition plays a significant role, with mint or sealed copies being exponentially more valuable than used or damaged ones[5]. Rarity is also crucial, with limited releases, region-specific editions, or rare variations being more sought after. Completeness, original box, manuals, inserts, and accessories all add significant value[5]. Historical significance, games regarded as milestones or highly influential, are valued beyond their rarity[5]. Popularity and nostalgia, titles associated with beloved franchises like Zelda, Pokémon, and Mario, tend to maintain or increase their market prices due to fanbase demand[5]. Cultural impact, games that have influenced the industry or have a strong legacy, enjoy premium prices[5]. Auction dynamics, competitive bidding can drive prices higher, especially when collectors vie for scarce copies[5].
In online marketplaces like eBay or specialty auction sites, these factors combine to influence final prices, which can sometimes reach thousands of dollars for pristine copies of classic Nintendo or Pokémon games. Some companies even specialise in grading games, which can increase their market value[6].
As the demand for these classic games continues to grow, so too does their value. Whether it's the original Game Boy, sold for 149 DM, now fetching between €90 and €300, or the record-breaking $660,000 (approximately €605,000) paid for a copy of Super Mario Bros. 3 at an auction[2], it's clear that the market for collectible console games is thriving.
[1] https://www.metacritic.com/game/nintendo-64/the-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-time [2] https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2020/10/world-record-video-game-auction-record-smashed-with-660000-super-mario-bros-3/ [3] https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2020/11/pokemon-red-video-game-auctioned-for-84000/ [4] https://www.vg247.com/2020/11/06/rare-sealed-nintendo-games-sell-for-thousands-of-dollars/ [5] Information derived from bullet points provided [6] https://www.wired.com/story/video-game-grading-professional-inspection-sealing/
A consumer looking for a rare gaming collectible might consider investing in a home-and-garden setup that includes high-end technology, such as a large-screen television and a gadget to display their sought-after titles, like a Nintendo 64 playing The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time or a Game Boy with Pokémon Red or Blue. The lifestyle of a dedicated video game collector could shift towards focusing on acquiring top-tier titles from classic series like Super Mario Bros., Donkey Kong, and Pokémon, knowing that these games' rarity, historical significance, and strong nostalgic appeal can lead to significant returns in the collector's market.
