These 12 Vintage Video Games Are Now Worth Thousands
For nostalgic gamers and collectors, vintage video games (and video game consoles) go beyond the realm of entertainment — they’re artifacts of a golden era in gaming history. As the gaming industry evolves (looking at you, virtual reality), games that were once purchased for a fraction of today’s prices have skyrocketed in value. From groundbreaking classics to more obscure titles, here are 12 valuable vintage video games that command impressive prices.
1. Super Mario 64
Considered one of the most influential adventure games of all time, this title was the first to feature character controls in a more engaging and vibrant color scheme. In 2021, a sealed copy sold for a record-breaking $1.56 million at auction. Its immersive 3D gameplay, which set new standards in the industry, helped elevate its value among vintage gaming collectors.
The game is also credited for introducing Mario to a fully realized 3D environment, cementing his status as one of the most iconic and beloved characters in the Mushroom Kingdom and beyond.
2. Nintendo World Championships
Created for the 1990 Nintendo World Championships, these cartridges are among the rarest Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) games on the market. The gold variant, of which only 26 were made, was dubbed the “holy grail” and fetched over $200,000 at auction. Copies command high thousands, as evidenced by this cartridge in “good” condition going for a whopping $175,000 on eBay.
3. Stadium Events
Released for the NES, this fitness game features four different sporting events: 100 meter dash, 110 meter hurdles, long jump, and triple jump. But because it was recalled and rebranded shortly after its release, it’s considered extremely rare and valuable among collectors.
Its scarcity and the story behind its recall contribute to its value among collectors, with complete copies known to sell for over $30,000 at auction. But if you don’t have $30k to spare, you can still buy one online for $3,500.
4. Super Mario Bros.
Collectors prize this classic for its lasting cultural impact and legacy. Its platform gameplay and role in launching the global success of Nintendo make it a must-have for serious collectors and fans of the franchise. Early, sealed editions in mint condition are considered especially rare; copies with a rating of 9 and above sell for over $20,000.
An unopened copy that had been collecting dust in a desk drawer for over 30 years also went on to sell for a staggering $660,000 at an auction in 2021.
5. Red Sea Crossing
This religious-themed Atari 2600 game was unknown to collectors until a few copies surfaced in the early 2010s. Created by an independent programmer in 1983, the game’s obscurity and limited distribution make it a rare gem among Atari collectors. A sealed copy sold for over $10,000 at an auction in 2012 after being found at a garage sale in 2007. But you can also buy one online for a cool $17,500 (you know, just pocket change for the rich).
6. Birthday Mania
This obscure Atari 2600 game was custom-made for players by enabling them to personalize the title screen with a birthday message. Due to limited production runs, the game is considered ultra-rare. Only 1o copies were ever sold, according to Atari Mania. Prices can hover around $6,000 depending on the condition and whether it includes the original packaging.
7. Air Raid
Also released for the Atari 2600, this game is known for its blue, T-shaped cartridge design that helped it stand out amongst competitors. With only a few copies still in circulation, one boxed version went on to sell for over $10,000 after being discovered at a local Goodwill in Texas. Its quirky design, rarity, and cult status among hardcore Atari gamers helped to further drive up its value. You can also buy one online for around $8,500.
8. The Legend of Zelda (First Edition)
This NES classic launched the legendary franchise that continues to thrive today by introducing the whimsical world of Zelda to new generations. A sealed copy sold for an astonishing $870,000 in 2021, making it one of the most expensive video games ever sold. Its historical and cultural legacy as a pioneer of open-world adventure gaming, coupled with its scarcity as a first edition, make it highly coveted. Sealed copies in pristine condition can sell for over $15,000.
9. Mega Man (First Edition)
The first entry in this popular Mega Man series for the NES has become a sought-after collector’s item. With complete copies in good condition selling for upwards of $800, the game is recognized as a cornerstone of Capcom’s enduring legacy. In December 2019, Christmas came early when a copy sold for $75,000 at auction.
10. Final Fantasy (First Edition)
Final Fantasy marks the beginning of one of the most successful franchises in gaming history. First edition sets of this game can sell for upwards of $6,000 in mint condition. Its open-ended exploration and narrative, compelling visuals, and strategic turn-based combat helped cement its status as one of the most popular and nostalgic role-playing games on the market.
11. Tetris (Sega Mega Drive Version)
Due to licensing issues, this version of Tetris had an extremely limited release. As a result, only a handful of copies are known to exist; a copy signed by creator Alexey Pajitnov snagged over $1 million at an auction in 2011. But if you don’t have a million bucks laying around, you can also buy an unsigned “bootleg” cartridge for around $150.
12. Atlantis II
This Atari 2600 game, which was produced exclusively for a private competition in the 1980s, was never made available for public sale. Players were invited to submit a picture of their highest scores, with the best competitors receiving this special, modified version of the game as a challenge to determine the ultimate champion. Due to its rarity and backstory, finding a copy is incredibly rare, with units going for around $3,000 online.