12 Retro Video Game Cartridges Collectors Will Pay High Prices For

Retro video game cartridges have become a hot commodity for collectors, with some fetching impressive prices. The rarity of certain titles, combined with their nostalgic value, makes them highly desirable. Some cartridges stand out because they were part of limited runs or had special packaging, increasing their appeal. Condition plays a major role in determining a cartridge’s value, with mint or sealed copies being worth far more. If you have a collection of vintage games, it’s worth taking a closer look at the ones that could potentially be worth a lot.

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Nintendo World Championships 1990

This cartridge was released in 1990 by Nintendo for the NES as a competition tool in the Nintendo World Championships event. It features special games and timer modes created just for the tournament, making it extremely rare. The fact that very few copies were ever distributed adds greatly to its appeal. Current market estimates indicate sealed copies can fetch around US $50,000 or more depending on grade. It’s a standout among retro cartridges because it merges gaming history with rarity.

Collectors place value on this cartridge because of its event-exclusive nature and original condition. The grey and gold versions each have distinct histories and collectors often prize the gold one higher. Being an early example of an official gaming tournament cartridge makes it historically significant. Condition matters a lot – signs of wear or missing packaging reduce value. Owning a fully authenticated copy can represent a landmark item in a retro gaming collection.

Stadium Events

Originally released in 1987 by Bandai for the NES, this game was part of an exercise-mat peripheral bundle and was quickly recalled by Nintendo and rebranded. Only about 200 copies of the original version are thought to exist, making it exceptionally rare. Because of the recall and low production run this cartridge commands high prices in the collector market. Estimates suggest values in the tens of thousands of dollars for complete, sealed versions. It stands out due to its rarity and the unusual story behind its withdrawal from the market.

What makes this game so intriguing to collectors is the recall history combined with physical rarity. A copy in mint condition with original packaging substantially increases its value. Many surviving copies are loose and missing accessories which lowers their desirability. Authenticity and provenance are especially important in this case. For serious retro game collectors, Stadium Events is a trophy item.

Red Sea Crossing

This game was released in 1983 by Inspirational Video Concepts for the Atari 2600 and was distributed by mail order only in extremely limited numbers. It features a biblical theme where the player guides Moses across the parted sea, which is an unconventional subject for the era. Since only about four verified copies are known to exist, its rarity is off the charts. In past auctions, one copy sold for about US $10,000–$14,000. It is particularly valued for being one of the rarest published console games.

Collectors prize this game because of its extreme scarcity and unusual origin story. Very few copies surfaced for decades, which adds to its mystique. Because it was self-published and offered by mail order it never had mainstream exposure, increasing its rarity. Original cartridge, label and any packaging bolster the value. For someone building an extreme rarity collection, Red Sea Crossing represents one of the hardest to find pieces.

Little Samson

Released in 1992 by Taito for the NES, Little Samson is a platform game with strong reviews but limited production. The game features four playable characters each with unique abilities, which appealed to gamers at the time. Collector guides list its estimated value in the range of US $2,400 to $20,000 or more, depending on condition. Its appeal comes from late-generation rarity on the NES and highly polished gameplay for its time. Copies in mint condition with box and manual command much higher prices than loose cartridge versions.

For collectors the factors driving value include the limited print run, strong gameplay reputation and the condition of packaging. A sealed copy is especially sought after and brings top dollar. Because this title was released late in the NES life-cycle, fewer units were produced which raises rarity. The presence of original box, manual and intact label are major pluses. If you find one in excellent condition you might have one of the more affordable high-value items on this list.

Donkey Kong Country Competition Cartridge

This cartridge was released in 1994 by Nintendo for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and was used in a Blockbuster video game competition. It came in a special clamshell packaging and was distributed only to participants. Because extremely few copies exist, it’s valued highly by buyers. Market estimates for certain grades reach US $2,000 to $5,000 or more. Its value comes from limited distribution and collector interest in special event cartridges.

Collectors especially value this title because of the combination of event exclusivity and original condition. High grade examples with intact packaging and minimal wear are rare. Tracking the exact number of copies is difficult which adds to the mystique. Verified provenance helps significantly. This cartridge is a prime example of a retro game where rarity and collector story combine to raise value.

Igo Meikan

Released in 1990 by an independent Japanese publisher for the Famicom, Igo Meikan is a Go (board game) title that had extremely limited distribution and was not widely known outside Japan. The gameplay involves reviewing championship Go game replays rather than a typical action game. According to recent reports its value may be around US $1,000 or more despite previously selling for much less. Its rarity and niche appeal combine to make it attractive to specialized collectors. Because the title is so obscure, condition and authenticity are especially important when determining value.

Collectors drawn to this cartridge often enjoy obscure or region-specific titles with small production runs. Finding one outside Japan in good condition is very rare. Because it was a niche product and lacked widespread distribution its survival rate is low. This scarcity plus collector interest in rare Japanese cartridges drives its market value. For someone who focuses on rare finds this cartridge is a noteworthy entry.

Super Mario World

Released in 1992 by Nintendo for the SNES as part of an event competition version of the popular Super Mario World game, this cartridge was not sold commercially. It was used in an event and came in special packaging. Because commercial versions differ and event versions are extremely limited, it is sought after by collectors. Estimated values for sealed versions run in the thousands of dollars, depending on condition and provenance. The combination of a beloved game and a non-commercial version gives it strong collectible status.

Collectors focus on this cartridge because it merges a mainstream beloved game with an ultra-rare variant. The event edition typically features unique labeling or casing that sets it apart from retail versions. Condition, presence of original box and paperwork matter a lot. The nostalgia factor of the main title adds mass viewer interest. For collectors of event or promotional games this is a highlight item.

Metal Storm

Released in February 1991 by IREM for the NES, Metal Storm is a sci-fi action game featuring a gravity-flip mechanic where the player reverses direction at will. Although the game did not see huge sales at the time, its well-regarded gameplay and limited distribution made it interesting to collectors. Reports indicate that cartridges in loose condition were regularly selling for over US $1,000 and complete editions more. Its value is supported by a combination of gameplay quality, scarcity and collector awareness. For fans of high-quality NES titles this game is a solid find.

Collectors value the game’s unique mechanic and its status as a later-generation NES release, which tends to have lower print runs. Condition again plays a major role in value. Complete in box versions with manuals and minimal wear are significantly more valuable. Because the game is solid but uncommon it draws attention among serious collectors. If you find one in strong condition you could have a sought-after addition.

Brawl Brothers

Released in 1992 by Technos Japan for the SNES, Brawl Brothers is a beat-’em-up game that enjoyed moderate popularity but had limited distribution in North America and Europe. Collector reports suggest sealed copies may be worth US $4,000 to $5,000 or more, especially in high grade. Its value comes from being a late era SNES title with fewer units produced plus collector interest in the beat-’em-up genre. The combination of rarity, condition and original packaging drives the higher prices. For SNES collectors this title stands out because it’s both enjoyable and rare.

Collectors look for sealed copies with original shrink wrap, box art in good shape and intact manual. The more complete the set the better the value. Because many copies were used and worn over time, finding a mint example is hard. Listing records show strong interest from both retro gamers and investment-oriented buyers. If you own one with minimal wear you might have one of the lesser-known big value titles.

Fire Emblem-Shadow Dragon

Using a slightly newer system, this cartridge was released in 2009 by Nintendo for the Nintendo DS and is a remake of the first Fire Emblem game. It came in a limited print run in Western markets and features collectible packaging. Collector value is estimated in the range of US $300 to $800 or more for sealed editions depending on region and condition. Its value is tied to being part of a popular franchise and having limited supply outside Japan. For fans of Fire Emblem and handheld gaming rarities it holds interest.

Collectors especially value the sealed version, original manual, and regional variant considerations. Because it is a more modern cartridge the printing quantities were larger than early era consoles, so high peaks are lower but still meaningful. Region-locked differences and opening scarcity help drive value. If you locate a mint sealed copy you could find it commanding a healthy price. For those building a handheld game collection this title is a key inclusion.

Mickey Mouse Castle of Illusion

Released in 1990 by Sega for the Sega Genesis, Castle of Illusion starring Mickey Mouse is a platform game with strong nostalgia value. While not ultra-rare, sealed first print versions in certain regions fetch US $200 to $800 depending on condition and edition. Collectors like this cartridge because it combines beloved character IP with original packaging intact. The combination of franchise, timing and condition creates interest. If you have one in excellent shape with box and manual you might find a pleasant surprise.

Collectors pay attention to regional variants, manufacturing run differences and whether the cartridge is still sealed. For this title the condition of the box and inserts matter. Since Mickey Mouse remains a popular character the crossover appeal helps its interest. Although its value does not reach the five-figure range it fills a strong mid-tier spot. For those collecting retro cartridges this title represents a good blend of nostalgia and value.

Shantae

Released in 2002 by WayForward Technologies for the Game Boy Color, Shantae is a platformer that gained a cult following despite low print quantities at release. Sealed copies of the game have been reported to sell for US $1,000 to $2,000 or more depending on packaging and condition. What gives it value is the combination of being a last-gen handheld cartridge with low print run plus growing interest in the franchise. Collectors of handheld games prize this title for both gameplay and condition rarity. If you own one sealed it could be a valuable piece of handheld game history.

Collectors focus on mint sealed condition, intact shrink-wrap, and region variants for this title. Because it was released late in the Game Boy era it had fewer units manufactured. The rise of retro handheld game collecting has helped its value grow. For those aiming for high-value handheld cartridges this title is a must-consider. Finding a sealed copy in perfect condition is quite a find.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.