The Rarest Games Consoles (& How Much They’re Worth)

As a collector with decades of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that these two rare gaming systems – the S.T.A.R.S. Dreamcast and the Atari Cosmos – are truly exceptional treasures for any enthusiast. The S.T.A.R.S. Dreamcast, with its rarity rivaling some of the hardest-to-find systems ever released, is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Resident Evil franchise. With only 200 units produced and prices ranging from $7,000 to an eye-watering $18,000, it’s no wonder that they seldom make an appearance on the auction block.

Video game consoles are sometimes referred to as collector’s items, but not all truly deserve this label. For instance, with hundreds of millions of PS4s and Xbox Ones sold globally, they don’t quite fit the description. However, when you consider limited edition versions, individually crafted consoles, and vintage gaming systems from years past, it becomes clear that console collecting can be a deep and costly passion.

A significant number of these gaming consoles are not only aesthetically pleasing or significant pieces of gaming history, but acquiring a complete set will cost quite a bit, provided you can even locate them for purchase. These consoles are among the rarest video game systems available, and their value.

Even though popular gaming consoles are widely available, bargain hunters can still score a great deal. You might stumble upon them at garage sales or hidden stores. Older systems such as the NES, ZX Spectrum, and Atari 2600 may pop up in unexpected places. However, some models are scarce and costly to obtain. This updated list highlights the scarcest gaming consoles currently on the market, organized by their revised prices.

Prices are sourced from PriceCharting.com except where noted.

22 This Is Cool Sega Saturn

Putting a Price on Coolness

The “Transparent Sega Saturn,” part of the Skeleton series, was the last iteration of the Sega Saturn consoles manufactured. Known for their transparent bodies that reflected the style trend, these consoles had the words “This Is Cool” engraved on a select few models’ CD drives for an unusual touch. Due to their limited production of around 30,000 units, they have become highly sought-after collectibles.

Fortunately, you can find some of them listed on eBay, usually selling for between $400 and $700. The price tag may seem steep to some, but for those who appreciate its slightly more stylish design, it could be well worth the investment. After all, this Japanese Sega Saturn is capable of running ‘X-Men Vs Street Fighter’, making the expense a bit more justifiable!

21 Apple Bandai Pippin

The Time Apple Made a Console

The Apple Bandai Pippin, similar in functionality to devices such as the 3DO, was primarily promoted as a multimedia platform that Apple allowed third parties to develop models of. Notably, Bandai was one of these partners, producing the Atmark and @World models. This device could connect to the internet for emails and messages, play music, print stickers, run educational software, and offer entertainment, including games.

As a gamer, I found the Pippin thrived in Japan due to its extensive collection of games tailored for younger gamers. However, in North America, it barely made an appearance, with just a few games and software before being taken off the market after a year. It was no match for the Sega Saturn and PlayStation in terms of power and affordability. Yet, this underdog of a console has managed to captivate collectors, offering a rare, distinctive piece of hardware that comes with a hefty price tag of around $800 for a full set.

20 Pikachu N64 Set

Electrifying Prices

The Nintendo 64 was particularly renowned for its exclusive Pokémon games. To boost sales of the video game “Hey You, Pikachu”, Toys R Us introduced an exceptional Nintendo 64 console themed around Pikachu. This unique console boasted a bright blue and yellow finish, and it showcased large Pikachu and Poke Ball-themed buttons. It even came pre-installed with the game, the Voice Recognition Unit, the necessary microphone, and an additional animated/talking Pokémon watch as a bonus.

The game didn’t perform as impressively as other microphone-driven virtual pet games such as Seaman on Dreamcast, but the console would be a prized possession for any Pokémon fan. Collectors might come across the complete set listed on sites like eBay for approximately $1,000; however, if the system is in its original box and new, they could pay nearly $4,000. For those only interested in the Pikachu console, they can find it for around $250 or so.

19 Pokémon Stadium N64 Battle Set

It’s a Battle to Afford This Set

In order to showcase the fantastic game, Pokémon Stadium, Nintendo chose to introduce a distinctive Battle Set edition of the Nintendo 64. This package encompassed the Nintendo 64 console, Pokémon Stadium, a vibrant “atomic purple” controller, an N64 transfer Pak, and a Pokémon Trainer Journal. Essentially, it had everything that a young fan could crave during that era.

Currently, finding these unique sets can be quite difficult due to their scarcity in today’s market. Nevertheless, you might stumble upon some on eBay. If fortune favors you, you could catch one selling for between $300 and $500, which is roughly the price of a contemporary console. However, according to PriceCharting.com, a complete set is valued at a hefty $1,500.

18 Gold Minish Cap Game Boy Advance SP

Worth Its Weight in Gold

The elusive gold Minish Cap Game Boy Advance SP is one of the rarest consoles ever made. They were made as a special promotion for the UK release of The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap, where it would contain the titular game and a golden Game Boy Advance SP. A few even came with golden tickets that entitled the owner to a GBA SP that was made with real gold.

It seems that the specific SP models coated in actual gold are not commonly found online, however, their gold-toned variations are equally scarce. Occasionally, individuals may stumble upon these machines priced between $150 and $335. For those complete with the game, manuals, and original packaging, prices can reach up to $1,660. Brand new editions have appeared for as much as $8,000, while a fully sealed box can fetch as high as $99,000! One can only imagine how expensive the ones made from real gold might be!

17 Sony PlayStation 4 20th Anniversary Edition (PAL)

A High Price for Nostalgia

Back in 2015, I was thrilled to get my hands on the Sony PlayStation 4 20th Anniversary Edition, one of the initial limited-edition PlayStations gracing our shelves. This console was a tribute to two decades of the iconic PlayStation brand. Not only did it sport a design reminiscent of the original gray box that sparked a revolution in gaming, but it also boasted an exclusive theme that harkened back to the timeless aesthetics of the PS One.

Approximately 12,300 of these gaming consoles were produced and released to the public, which has led to a significant increase in their resale value today. In North America, a fully equipped version can fetch up to $956. European versions are even more elusive; a loose console can sell for as much as $1,386. However, it’s possible to find used consoles at lower prices, but the accessories may not always be included.

16 Nintendo 64DD

A Dynamic Drive Off a Cliff

Due to concerns about piracy, Nintendo has attempted to develop their own media formats rather than using technologies that are easily exploited, such as floppy disks and CDs. However, each time they ventured into this territory, it resulted in catastrophe for them. The Famicom Disk System was prone to frequent breakdowns, causing its major games to be re-released on NES cartridges. The planned SNES add-on ultimately gave rise to their greatest competitor – the Sony PlayStation. Lastly, there was the Nintendo 64DD, a disk drive peripheral that was released exclusively in Japan in 1999.

The 64DD was more robust than the FDS, but it met the same unfortunate end when it didn’t sell well. Its exclusive games, such as “The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask” and “Earthbound 64”, were either adapted for regular N64 play or canceled altogether. Due to their scarcity, these items are extremely rare. If you manage to find one on eBay, be prepared to spend around $2,000, whether it’s loose or complete. Unless you’re keen on designing your own courses in “F-Zero X” using its Expansion Kit, the 64DD holds more value as a collector’s item.

15 Red Pokémon Game Boy Micro

If Only the Price Was Micro Too

As a devoted gaming enthusiast, I can’t forget the nostalgia that the Game Boy Micro stirs within me. Released in 2005, it was essentially an overhaul of the classic Game Boy Advance, perhaps intended as an affordable alternative to the freshly launched Nintendo DS. However, due to its diminutive size, it wasn’t the most comfortable device for gameplay, which led many to opt for its larger forebears or the dual-screen successor instead. Nevertheless, it carries a certain value, marking as it did the last product under the Game Boy brand before the iconic name was laid to rest.

This specific Game Boy Micro would become a coveted collectible item, primarily due to its unique design. Additionally, there was a restricted edition launched only in Japan, which added to its rarity. It was adorned with a Pokemon theme, featuring a small Pikachu emblem over the B button. While not as exceptional as the Pikachu N64, its regional exclusivity increased its value significantly; a complete boxed set can fetch more than $2,000.

14 Resident Evil Code: Veronica Dreamcast

A Biohazard to Bank Accounts

The Dreamcast, although often overlooked, was significantly overshadowed by the PlayStation 2. Despite this, it managed to hold its ground and boasted some exceptional games, largely due to Sega’s strong collaboration with Capcom. This partnership resulted in adaptations of many early Resident Evil titles, including Resident Evil Code: Veronica, which was unique to the Dreamcast during its release.

In order to boost the popularity of the game, a distinctive REC:V-themed Dreamcast model was manufactured and launched exclusively in Japan. This limited edition console came with the game pre-installed and featured a transparent design, available in either red (known as the ‘Claire’ version) or blue (the ‘S.T.A.R.S’ version). Due to its scarcity, collectors can anticipate paying anywhere from $1,200 to $1,700 to acquire one of these sought-after pieces.

13 Sega Genesis CDX/Sega Multi-Mega (PAL)

Multi-Grand Prices for an All-in-One Machine

1994 saw Sega merging their Genesis and Sega CD into a single hybrid console known as the Genesis CDX, or Sega Multi-Mega overseas. This device retailed for an astounding $400 upon release, which equals approximately $850 in current value. Unfortunately, its high price tag led to disappointing sales figures. While games like Snatcher and Sonic CD were exceptional, they didn’t quite make the Genesis CDX worth purchasing as a standalone device, let alone bundled with the Genesis.

Indeed, the value of the Sega Genesis CDX has significantly increased over time, making it quite expensive on online marketplaces. A standard unit, fully assembled, can fetch around $1,400, while an unassembled one is worth approximately $422. The European Multi-Mega is particularly scarce, with loose versions selling for an additional $200 and new boxes going up to a staggering $5,850.

12 Panasonic 3DO M2

The Console That Never Was

3DO was a pioneer in its era, featuring innovations such as internet connectivity, video playback, and online gaming that are now standard on modern gaming consoles. However, due to its early introduction, it lacked the refinement and performance of high-end PCs during the same period, and its cost was beyond the budget of console gamers who were accustomed to less expensive systems. The arrival of PlayStation and Sega Saturn marked the beginning of the end for 3DO.

Because it didn’t sell well, the successor to the Panasonic 3DO, known as the Panasonic 3DO M2, was quickly discontinued. Developers could utilize its hardware for arcade-style games such as Battle Tryst, but only a handful of prototypes were ever produced. Those who managed to obtain one of these rare models have resold them for thousands of dollars, typically $4,000+. For the majority, however, this elusive gaming device will cost between $1,000 and $3,000.

11 Cuphead Xbox One S

A Yellow Console Going for Golden Prices

Many of the most scarce video game consoles originate from the 1970s to the 1990s, although there are a few contemporary systems that can fetch exorbitant prices. For instance, the Cuphead Xbox One S Limited Edition, released just four years ago at the time of this writing, is valued at approximately $3,000. This special console was produced exclusively for the game’s L.A. launch event in 2017.

Initially, only four of these items were produced, and they were presented as awards to a select few attendees. Due to their scarcity, each one is appraised at around $3,000, and this value may rise even more in the future as time goes by. This could be why their current owners are choosing not to sell them, since none have been listed on the market so far.

10 Pokémon World Championships Nintendo DSi XL

Making People Say Aloha to Their Cash

Among various Pokemon-themed consoles, this one stands out for its striking beauty. As per ConsoleVariations.com, these specific models were exclusively awarded to winners of the 2010 Pokémon World Championships in Hawaii. This is why it displays the PWC logo and features an artwork of Pikachu and other Pokemon engaged in a traditional Hawaiian hula dance.

A limited edition of just 112 Pokémon World Championship Nintendo DSi XL systems were produced, making them difficult to find. If you manage to locate one, expect to pay at least $2,500 if it’s not in its original packaging, or up to $3,740 if it is. In exceptional condition, these systems can cost over $7,100, and some have even reached $12,500.

9 Sharp Game Television

It’s a TV and a Console Combined!

Ever since 1976, I’ve seen game companies like Magnavox integrate their video games directly into TV sets with their Model 4305. From there, we’ve had consoles such as the PS2, Dreamcast, PC Engine, and even the Philips CD-I being built right into TVs, eliminating the hassle of messing around with AV cables. Even Nintendo jumped on board when Sharp produced the SHARP 19SV111, aka the Sharp Game Television, allowing gamers like me to enjoy seamless gaming experiences right out of the box.

This was a CRT television, 19 inches in size, featuring an integrated NES cartridge slot and controller ports within the base. It originally came packaged with unique black NES controllers and a remote control. At that time, this set could only be purchased at KMart stores in 1989. Finding one now can be quite challenging. If you come across one for sale under $1,500, it’s possible that some of its accessories may be missing or damaged due to years of use (or lack thereof), with potential issues such as broken legs or signs of wear and tear.

8 Maziora Dreamcast

Shifting Colors, Rising Prices

Among Sega’s final home consoles, the Maziora Dreamcast stands out as a distinct model. Crafted by a Japanese automobile manufacturer sharing the same name, only 500 units were produced, with 200 autographed by Tadahiko Taira, a renowned Grand Prix motorcycle racer. However, it’s not just the rarity and celebrity endorsement that make these consoles valuable; people are willing to pay over six thousand dollars for them as well.

These gadgets (consoles and controllers) have a unique finish that makes their color shift based on the surrounding lighting and viewing perspective. Under specific conditions, they may seem aqua blue, but they can transform into a purple hue when observed from various angles or if the light intensity alters.

7 The PS1 10-Million Edition

Gold Standard in a Blue Shell

To honor the fact that over ten million consoles were sold, Sony introduced a special version of the Playstation, christened as the PS1 Ten-Million Anniversary Edition, in a promotional contest. In total, there are merely 300 units available worldwide, with approximately one-third being the NTSC variant. Distinguishable from standard editions due to its dark blue color rather than the usual gray, it also features ’10 Million Model’ etched on the backside.

These gaming consoles typically go for over $5,000 on sites such as eBay, with an average price hovering around $7,500. If you want one in mint condition, expect to pay close to $20,000. However, stories abound of people finding these systems at garage sales or second-hand shops for a steal. Such a find could prove to be a great bargain for the right buyer.

6 Hot Summer Peach DS

A Handheld Fit for Royalty

2005 saw Japan hosting its fair share of exclusive events as well. During the summer months from July to September, Club Nintendo ran their Hot Summer campaign, which involved distributing special DS consoles decorated with summer themes and 3D-style images of various Nintendo characters such as Yoshi, Donkey Kong, Bowser, and Mario. These unique versions can be found if one is determined enough to search for them.

Among them, the most uncommon find is the “Hot Summer Peach DS,” distinguished by its entirely pink exterior and featuring Princess Peach’s likeness on the cover. Produced in a limited run of just 200 units, locating one can be quite challenging. Currently, RaretroConsoles has it listed for $8,299, while an eBay seller was previously offering a sealed, boxed version for a staggering $15,000. Such exorbitant prices may make even the most ardent Princess Peach enthusiast think twice before making a purchase.

5 Shadow of the Tomb Raider Xbox One X

A Prize Not Even Lara Croft Could Find

This unique and visually breathtaking Xbox One X themed after Shadow of the Tomb Raider was the product of a distinctive partnership between Square Enix and Microsoft. It was sold on eBay for charity, with every penny raised going directly to Best Friends Animal Society.

The winning bidder ended up paying over $8,000 to get their hands on the unique system, which was released just two and a half years prior to the launch of the Xbox Series S and X. That seems like an astronomical price for what’s essentially a fancied-up console, but they only made one of these models out of the millions of X Units made. Whoever won the console is likely to make just as much, if not more so, if they ever feel the need to put it up for sale themselves.

4 Dreamcast S.T.A.R.S. Edition

Prices To Make Faces Turn Blue

Speaking about scarcity, the S.T.A.R.S. Dreamcast ranks among the most elusive systems ever produced. Just like its red ‘Claire’ counterpart, it was a unique Dreamcast model launched solely in Japan by Sega to coincide with the release of RE Code: Veronica. However, unlike its predecessor, this version had a deep blue color and featured an exclusive S.T.A.R.S sticker on the disc drive.

As a lucky gamer, I got my hands on an incredibly exclusive gaming console that came with a unique controller, a copy of REC: V, and some sweet Resident Evil merchandise. Since only 200 of these bad boys were made, their value has shot through the roof. Finding one for sale online is like finding a needle in a haystack, and when they do pop up, they command high prices. At best, you might find it going for $7,000, but more often than not, the price ranges between $10,000 and $18,000. It’s a rare gem that every hardcore Resident Evil fan dreams of owning!

3 The Atari Cosmos

A Valuable Piece of Gaming History

In the realm of video game industry, Atari was once a major contender with numerous successful home consoles under its belt. However, it missed an opportunity in the profitable handheld market, which later became Nintendo’s stronghold. Despite putting in effort, Atari couldn’t crack this sector. The Atari Cosmos, a project that took three years to develop, was eventually scrapped in 1981. This device was intended to be a tabletop unit utilizing holographic images for graphics display and was initially planned to sell at $10 ($35 in today’s value).

Originally, it was intended to manufacture 250 items. However, what actually exists are only five prototypes; three of these prototypes are empty shells with no inner workings. Remarkably, one of these hollow models was listed on eBay in 2005 and fetched an astounding $18,853. Another shell, previously owned by the inventor of Pong and an employee at Atari, Allan Alcorn, was sold on Remarkable Rarities for $25,903. If any of these functional models were to be put up for sale, their prices would likely soar to great heights.

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2024-09-29 15:55