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A LOOK AT RETRO VIDEO GAME CONSOLES Retro gaming consoles not only capture the evolution of video games but also carry significant value for collectors and fans of classic gaming. Condition, rarity, and original packaging play a big role in determining their worth, but for many, the real value lies in the nostalgia they bring. Each console represents a moment in gaming history while reminding us of how far technology has come.  ATARI 2600 (1977) The Atari 2600 revolutionized home gaming with interchangeable cartridges, allowing players to enjoy titles like "Space Invaders" and "Adventure." It became a household name in the late '70s and early '80s, pushing the boundaries of home entertainment. Average Value Today: $100–$300 (complete in box) Collector’s Note: Special editions like the "Heavy Sixer" are more valuable, with prices reaching over $500 in pristine condition.  COLECOVISION (1982) The ColecoVision brought near-arcade-quality games into homes, offering titles like "Donkey Kong" and "Zaxxon." It was well-received for its innovative expansion modules and variety of game titles, which gave players a wider range of experiences than most systems at the time. Average Value Today: $150–$300 Collector’s Note: Complete systems with all accessories can fetch premium prices, especially if they include rarer games or the Expansion Module #1, which allowed Atari 2600 games to be played on the system.  NINTENDO ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM (NES) (1985) The NES saved the gaming industry after the 1983 video game crash, becoming a cultural phenomenon with titles like "Super Mario Bros.," "The Legend of Zelda," and "Metroid." It cemented Nintendo's dominance in the 8-bit era. Average Value Today: $80–$200 (depending on condition) Collector’s Note: Limited editions, like the gold "Zelda" cartridge, can fetch upwards of $500.  TURBOGRAFX-16 (1987) Released in North America in 1989, the TurboGrafx-16 struggled to gain traction against the NES and Sega Genesis but remains a cult favorite today. Known for its colorful 2D graphics and memorable games like "Bonk's Adventure," the console gained a loyal fanbase. Average Value Today: $150–$400 Collector’s Note: The TurboGrafx-CD add-on can significantly increase the value of the system, especially if paired with games like, "Ys Book I & II."
 SEGA GENESIS (1989) Sega's Genesis was known for its fast-paced action and arcade-quality graphics, introducing iconic franchises like "Sonic the Hedgehog." It played a major role in the early '90s console wars with Nintendo’s SNES. Average Value Today: $50–$150 Collector’s Note: Special models, like the Sega Genesis Model 1, tend to be more desirable, especially when paired with the original packaging.  SUPER NINTENDO ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM (SNES) (1991) The SNES improved upon its predecessor, offering 16-bit graphics and a robust lineup of games like "Super Mario World," "Street Fighter II," and "Donkey Kong Country." It defined gaming for much of the early '90s. Average Value Today: $100–$250 Collector’s Note: Games like "Earthbound" and "Chrono Trigger" can sometimes surpass the value of the console itself, with prices over $1,000 for boxed versions.  SONY PLAYSTATION (1994) Sony’s PlayStation was a game-changer, ushering in the era of 3D gaming with CDs, allowing for longer and more complex titles like "Final Fantasy VII" and "Metal Gear Solid." It became the best-selling console of its time. Average Value Today: $50–$150 Collector’s Note: Early models, such as the SCPH-1001, are more sought after due to superior audio components and can reach prices of $200 or more.  SEGA SATURN (1994) Though overshadowed by the PlayStation and Nintendo 64, the Sega Saturn had a devoted following, especially for its impressive lineup of 2D fighters and JRPGs, like "Panzer Dragoon Saga." Today, it’s cherished by collectors. Average Value Today: $150–$400 Collector’s Note: Games like "Panzer Dragoon Saga" and "Radiant Silvergun" are rare and highly sought after, with prices sometimes exceeding $1,000 for complete, boxed versions.  NINTENDO 64 (1996) The Nintendo 64 brought immersive 3D environments to the forefront, with iconic games like "Super Mario 64" and "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time." Its innovative controller design set a new standard for gaming. Average Value Today: $70–$200 Collector’s Note: Limited-edition versions, such as the Pikachu-themed N64, can sell for up to $500.  SEGA DREAMCAST (1999) The Dreamcast was ahead of its time, offering online play and powerful hardware. Though short-lived due to stiff competition from the PlayStation 2, it still holds a cult following with standout games like "Shenmue" and "Sonic Adventure." Average Value Today: $100–$300 Collector’s Note: The Dreamcast’s official Sega-branded peripherals (like the fishing rod or VMU) add value, with some items fetching high prices among collectors.  PLAYSTATION 2 (2000) The PlayStation 2 is one of the best-selling consoles of all time, thanks to a huge library of games like "Grand Theft Auto III" and "Final Fantasy X." Its built-in DVD player also made it an attractive home entertainment option. Average Value Today: $50–$150 Collector’s Note: Early models, particularly in mint condition, can fetch higher prices. Special editions, like the PS2 Slim, can also increase in value depending on condition.  NINTENDO GAMECUBE (2001) The GameCube, known for its compact design and games like "Super Smash Bros.," "Melee," and "The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker," remains a fan-favorite for multiplayer gaming. Though it struggled against the PS2 and Xbox, it has found a second life in the hearts of retro gaming enthusiasts. Average Value Today: $70–$200 Collector’s Note: Limited-edition colors, like the Platinum or Spice Orange, can increase the value, as well as boxed sets with original controllers and games.  HONORABLE MENTION - GAME BOY (1989) Nintendo's Game Boy was the king of handheld gaming, beloved for portable classics like "Tetris" and "Pokémon Red/Blue." Its long battery life and durable design made it a favorite for on-the-go gaming. Average Value Today: $50–$150 Collector’s Note: Special editions like the Pokémon Yellow Game Boy and boxed sets can go for $200 or more, especially in pristine condition. |
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