If you have a collection of old video games tucked away, you might be sitting on more than just nostalgia. Many vintage games have become valuable items that collectors are eager to buy, sometimes fetching surprising prices.
Knowing which games are worth real money can help you decide if it’s time to dig through your shelves or boxes.
Pokémon Yellow
Pokémon Yellow is a classic Game Boy game that many collectors seek.
If you have a copy in good condition, it can be worth around $50, but prices vary depending on the game’s state.
Rare, professionally graded copies sell for much more, sometimes reaching into the thousands. Your original game with authentic packaging could be a valuable find.
Super Mario Bros. (1985)
If you have a sealed copy of Super Mario Bros. from 1985, you might be sitting on something valuable. Some rare editions have sold for millions, especially if they are in near-perfect condition.
Even loose cartridges can fetch good prices, depending on their condition and rarity. Keep an eye out for original packaging and seals to boost value.
EarthBound (SNES)
If you own EarthBound on the SNES, you have a valuable piece of gaming history.
Its unique story and quirky style made it a cult classic over the years.
You can find EarthBound cartridges selling anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on condition and completeness. Collectors especially look for complete-in-box copies, which boost the value significantly.
The Legend of Zelda (Gold Cartridge)
If you have a gold cartridge of The Legend of Zelda, you hold a piece of gaming history. These cartridges were some of the first produced for the NES.
Interestingly, the original gold cartridges were more common than the later gray versions. That means gray carts can sometimes be rarer and more valuable.
Still, a gold cartridge in good condition with its original case and manual can fetch you a decent price if you decide to sell.
Mega Man V (Game Boy)
If you have a copy of Mega Man V for Game Boy, you’re holding a valuable piece of gaming history. This game is rare outside of Japan and can fetch over $1,000 in complete-in-box condition.
Its high price is due to scarcity and the strong fan demand. Even loose cartridges sell for a good amount, but having the original case and manual boosts its value considerably.
ET the Extra-Terrestrial (Atari 2600)
If you have a copy of ET for the Atari 2600, it might be worth more than you expect. Loose cartridges sell for around $9, but complete or rare versions can go for much higher.
This game has a mixed reputation, but collectors still seek it out. Your copy’s condition and packaging will heavily affect its value.
Red Sea Crossing
If you’re into rare video games, Red Sea Crossing is a must-know title. Released in 1983 for the Atari 2600, it’s one of the rarest games out there, with only a couple of known copies.
This game stands out because it brings a biblical story into the gaming world. If you ever find a copy, it could be worth tens of thousands of dollars.
Castlevania (Original Collection)
If you’re into classic gaming, the original Castlevania collection is a great find. These games, especially the NES titles, have become quite valuable over time.
You might be surprised to learn that some copies, like the first Castlevania, have sold for tens of thousands of dollars. It’s a solid investment if you’ve kept yours in good condition.
Luigi’s Mansion
If you have a copy of the original Luigi’s Mansion for the GameCube, it could be worth some money, especially if it’s complete with the case and manual.
The game offers a unique mix of spooky fun and puzzle-solving that many players still enjoy today.
You might also find newer versions, like Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon or Luigi’s Mansion 3, interesting for different gameplay experiences, though they usually hold less collector value.
Keep an eye out for well-preserved older editions when hunting for games that hold their worth.
Super Mario Sunshine
If you grew up with a GameCube, you probably know Super Mario Sunshine. It’s a cult favorite and stands out with its unique water-jetpack gameplay. You might be surprised to hear that physical copies of this game can be pricey today.
Since the GameCube wasn’t the best-selling console, finding complete versions in good condition can be rare. If you want a copy, expect to spend upwards of $70, especially for well-kept editions.