The world of retro gaming is full of hidden treasures that could be worth a fortune, with some old games and consoles fetching exorbitant sums at auctions. While retro gaming may be a nostalgic hobby for many, the value of some vintage items has skyrocketed over the years, turning them into highly sought-after collectibles. GameTop has highlighted some of the most valuable retro video games, consoles, and handheld devices based on the staggering prices they have fetched in auctions.
Starting with the iconic Super Mario Bros., the 1985 game released for the Nintendo NES console has seen mint condition copies sell for a jaw-dropping $2 million (£1.64 million). Other classics like Super Mario 64, Super Mario World, and Super Mario Bros 2 can also fetch hundreds of thousands of pounds. Another highly valuable retro game is the original Tetris, with rare versions of the game earning up to $1 million (£820,000) at auctions, thanks to its popularity on the Game Boy platform in 1989.
When it comes to retro gaming consoles, one of the most sought-after items is the Nintendo PlayStation hybrid prototype from the early 1990s. Only one of the 200 prototypes created is known to exist today, and it sold at auction for over $300,000 (£245,000) in 2020. Another valuable console is the 2009 Nintendo Wii Supreme, adorned with 22-Karat gold coverings and diamond-encrusted buttons, valued at over $400,000 (£327,000). The 1980s Atari Cosmos, a holographic tabletop console, is also a collectible valued at $25,903 (£21,215).
Handheld devices have also proven to be lucrative collector’s items, with Game Boys, PlayStation consoles, and various Nintendo DS versions commanding high prices. The limited-edition McDonald’s Nintendo DS, originally intended for McDonald’s employees in the mid-2000s, has become a popular collector’s item, fetching up to $3,200 (£2,620). Other valuable handheld devices include the Pokemon World Championship Nintendo DSi XL and Advance Wars Nintendo DS, valued at around $2,500 (£2,047) and $800 (£655) respectively.
The retro gaming market continues to thrive, and with items worth millions potentially hiding in homes across the country, it might be worth checking your attic or garage for any forgotten gems. Whether you are a seasoned collector or someone stumbling upon old gaming memorabilia, the allure of retro gaming and its nostalgic appeal are undeniably strong. As the demand for vintage games and consoles grows, the prices for these rare items are expected to soar even higher, making them valuable investments for enthusiasts and collectors alike.