10 Retro Video Game Consoles That Are Surprisingly Valuable Today
Over the years, retro video game consoles have transformed into treasured collectibles worth surprising amounts. If you have an old console collecting dust in the attic, don’t throw it away — it could be worth a small fortune today. Thanks to limited production or unique features, some of these consoles now fetch thousands of dollars. From failed prototypes to ultra-rare editions, here are 10 consoles that have achieved legendary status in the world of retro gaming.
1. SNK Neo Geo AES
The Neo Geo AES (which stands for Advanced Entertainment System) originated in Japan in the early ’90s, and brought arcade-quality gaming to living rooms across the world. But its steep price tag of $650 at the time (around $1,200 today, after adjusting for inflation) made it prohibitively expensive for many families — let alone kids who saved up their measly allowances to buy one. Featuring cutting-edge graphics and sound for the time, the AES has cemented its legacy among hardcore gamers.
Its rarity, high-build quality, and a loyal fan base make it one of the most sought-after consoles today, with units in good condition selling for upwards of $800.
2. Neo Geo Pocket Color
Launched in 1999, the Neo Geo Pocket Color was SNK’s answer to Nintendo’s Game Boy Color. Though it hoped to revolutionize handheld gaming, the console ultimately fell short due to its shorter battery life and limited game library. Still, niche collectors praise the Neo Geo for the enduring appeal of its games, particularly fan-favorites like “SNK vs. Capcom” and “Metal Slug: 1st Mission.” In mint condition, this console can sell for around $200 to over $700 (unopened).
3. Atari Jaguar CD
Released as an add-on for Atari’s ill-fated Jaguar console, the Jaguar CD struggled with reliability issues and a lack of support from developers, resulting in its quick demise. But with only 20,000 units ever produced, working models in fair or good condition are considered extremely rare. Its association with Atari’s downfall, coupled with its scarcity, have turned it into a gem for those who value nostalgic ’90s gaming. In good condition, units can sell for $1,500 or more.
4. Sega SG-1000
The SG-1000 hit the market in 1983, and was Sega’s first foray into home consoles. But its limited release outside of Japan, coupled with fierce competition from Nintendo’s Famicom, resulted in disappointing sales. Today, collectors still treasure it for its historical legacy as Sega’s origin in the console market. Unopened or pristine models fetch well over a grand.
5. Nintendo/Sony PlayStation (Prototype)
This prototype was born from a failed partnership between Sony and Nintendo in the early ’90s. With only 200 ever produced, only one unit is still known to exist. Seen as the rarest gaming console on the planet, its historical prowess and one-of-a-kind status resulted in it selling for a mind-boggling $360,000 at an auction in 2020.
6. Gold-Plated Nintendo Wii
Commissioned as a publicity stunt by THQ (a video game publisher that has since gone out of business) for Queen Elizabeth II, this gold-plated Wii stands out as a literal gem in gaming history. While it never reached the Queen herself, the console’s exclusivity and connection to royalty make it a coveted collector’s item, especially among high-end buyers. It was listed on eBay for a whopping $30,000 in 2021, though it’s unclear whether it actually sold for that amount.
7. Sega Genesis CDX
This hybrid of the Sega Genesis and Sega CD was released in 1994 as a portable and compact alternative to the standard Genesis and Sega CD combo. But its steep initial price tag and limited marketing resulted in poor sales, and the console was quickly overshadowed by competitors. Despite this, gaming enthusiasts prize it for its versatility, sleek design, and rarity, as well as its importance in Sega’s hardware lineage. In good condition, units can sell for upwards of $2,000.
8. Panasonic Q
This hybrid console, which was released only in Japan in 2001, combined a Nintendo GameCube with a DVD player. Hoping to target an upscale audience, its advanced design and functionality stood out. But the console’s limited market appeal and hefty price tag of nearly $500 kept it from blowing up. Still, collectors value it for its quirky aesthetic and novelty — being able to play both games and a movie simultaneously was a big deal at the time. Units in mint condition can sell for close to $2,000.
9. Apple Bandai Pippin
With everyone shooting their shot at the gaming world, Apple was not to be left behind. In 1996, the tech giant partnered with Bandai to launch the Pippin: a gaming console that also doubled as a multimedia device. But due to high pricing and a lack of compelling games, the console resulted in very low production. It was widely considered a commercial flop. Today, thanks to its obscurity and connection to Apple’s history, it yields impressive prices online, with units selling for over a grand.
10. Game Boy Light (Famitsu Edition)
Released exclusively in Japan in 1998, the Game Boy Light was a backlit version of the original Game Boy. The Famitsu Edition, which was created to celebrate the popular gaming magazine, had only 5,500 units ever produced, making it especially rare. Its exclusivity, combined with the nostalgia associated with the Game Boy era, makes it a prized gem among collectors. Units in good condition have been known to sell for over $600, while unopened ones can fetch well over $1,500.