The Rarest PC Engine/TurboGrafx-16 Games (& How Much They’re Worth)

Summary

• Sega was successful in Europe with the Master System despite struggles in North America.
• Rare PC Engine games like Gunhed & Cotton come with high price tags, especially with boxed copies.
• The US version of Magical Chase tops the list as the rarest and priciest PC Engine game.

As someone who has been collecting retro games for over two decades, I can confidently say that this list of rare TurboGrafx-16 games is nothing short of jaw-dropping. The prices these games fetch are simply astounding!

I remember when I was a kid, saving up my allowance to buy the latest game at the local video store. I could hardly imagine spending thousands of dollars on a single cartridge or CD-ROM. But here we are, and the collector’s market is more vibrant than ever.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go check my attic for any forgotten TurboGrafx games. Who knows? Maybe I’ve got a mint copy of Magical Chase hidden away!

By the way, did you hear about the guy who found a rare game in his grandmother’s attic? He sold it for $10,000 and used the money to buy himself a new game console… from 1985. Classic!

In North America during the 8-bit era, Nintendo held a dominant position, even as Atari and Sega tried to gain ground. However, Sega found more success in Europe, where some classic gamers still cherish memories of the Master System. Most European gaming enthusiasts, though, had to make do with computers like the Commodore 64 and Amstrad CPC until the release of the SNES and Mega Drive (Genesis).

In Japan, Sega trailed behind NEC’s PC Engine in popularity. Although it could produce 16-bit graphics, it was built on an 8-bit processor which was a disadvantage when NEC marketed it as the TurboGrafx-16 in the US. Moreover, games like “Castlevania: Rondo of Blood” and “Kaizo Chojin Shubibinman,” its best titles, were seldom translated for international audiences. Consequently, many of its games, whether on HuCard or CD format, have become scarce and valuable today.

10. Gunhed Special Version

Robot Made To Fight Godzilla Ends Up On The PC Engine

The creation story of the movie “Gunhed” is more captivating than watching the film itself, since it initially started as a possible contender for a “Godzilla” title where Godzilla would battle against a gun-wielding robot. However, it was eventually set aside in favor of “Godzilla vs Biollante”. Consequently, Gunhed got his own movie, and Compile produced an acceptable shooter game, loosely inspired by the character’s on-screen appearance. To steer clear of legal complications, Compile eliminated all cinematic references to release it in the West as “Blazing Lasers”.

As a movie connoisseur, I must say that snagging the standard PC Engine/TurboGrafx-16 HuCard version of this game won’t break the bank. However, the creators at Compile generously offered a Special Version of Gunhed, enriching it with a Caravan mode – a thrilling time attack feature ideal for local tournaments. Acquiring this elusive title, though, comes with a hefty price tag: approximately $370 for a loose card or a whopping $816 for a boxed copy.

9. Cotton: Fantastic Night Dreams (US CD)

A Game As Smooth As Cotton At A Price As Rich As Satin

The given list will also incorporate games for PC Engine CD-ROM²/TurboGrafx CD, as this system isn’t well-known for its scarcely available titles. While it may have numerous costly ones, finding games like “Castlevania: Rondo of Blood” won’t be a budget-friendly endeavor. However, only a handful approach the four-figure range, such as “Cotton: Fantastic Night Dreams”.

In this game, you guide the main character, a witch, and her companion Silk, a fairy, through a magical shooter experience where you destroy enemies similar to the R-Type series. The US version can cost between $300 for a loose disc or $984 if you prefer the complete box set. However, it’s been made available on more recent platforms at lower costs. Yet, some enthusiasts might appreciate owning one of its early Western releases as part of their collection.

8. Bomberman ’93 Special Version (JPN)

Multiplayer Mayhem At A Mighty Price

While it’s true that a scarce and pricey game doesn’t necessarily make it the ultimate edition of the game, enthusiasts like PC Engine and TurboGrafx-16 users would have enjoyed playing classics such as Bomberman ’93, either conquering the single-player campaign or having a blast competing against friends in multiplayer mode. In fact, those who managed to acquire this game could potentially earn around $350 if they chose to sell it on the market in America.

Additionally, you’ll find the Bomberman ’93 Special Version. Similar to the Gunhed Special Edition, it was designed specifically for local competitions and demonstration kiosks, emphasizing its multiplayer aspect. Consequently, single-player content has been removed, and it can only be played with real opponents. Interestingly, only 1,000 copies of this game were ever produced, making a well-preserved boxed version quite expensive at approximately $990.

7. Legend Of Hero Tonma (US)

No Hero Can Save Buyers From These Prices

If you’re proficient in Japanese, mastering the game “Legend of Hero Tonma” should be quite straightforward. Being a platformer with a typical save-the-princess storyline, even those who don’t speak Japanese might understand the general idea of the game. If they own a Japanese PC Engine and have around $50 for a loose cartridge (or approximately $170 for a boxed version), they can start playing as Tonma swiftly.

As a movie buff, if you’re keen on experiencing the thrilling action of Tonma in English, brace yourself for a costly endeavor. A used copy of the English version could set you back by an eye-watering $610. If you’re after a boxed version, be prepared to part with around $1,347. For those seeking a pristine, mint condition copy, expect to shell out a staggering $2,000. And remember, even at this high price tag, you might not have much spare change left in your wallet.

6. Syd Mead’s Terraforming (US CD)

The Price Is Terrifying

For those captivated by the futuristic style seen in films like Aliens, Blade Runner, Tron, Turn A Gundam and others, they owe a debt of gratitude to Syd Mead. He was instrumental in creating the cyberpunk aesthetic with his distinctive mechanical designs. Notably, The Right Stuff production team were so taken by his work that they hired him to create designs for their shooter game.

In 1993, the game Syd Mead’s Terraforming was released on TurboGrafx-CD. The Japanese version of this game, simply called Terraforming, can be purchased for around $90 ($40 if it doesn’t include the original box). However, American versions are significantly more expensive, priced at approximately $1,462 each. Even without the box, the cost remains high, with loose discs selling for about $1,453.

5. Darius Alpha (JPN)

The Most Expensive Boss Battle Mode On The Market

Enthusiasts of shoot ’em up games will recognize the popular series known as Darius. The initial arcade game was a sensation in Japanese game centers back in 1987, however, it took some time to make its way onto home consoles. Owners of CD-ROM² systems were treated to Super Darius, complete with all the bosses, arcade-precise music, and sound effects. PC Engine players, on the other hand, enjoyed a streamlined yet equally entertaining version called Darius Plus.

Should players own both games, they can submit two coupons from their manuals to receive the game titled “Darius Alpha“. This is a Boss Rush game that allows players to battle all the game’s bosses sequentially. Due to its rarity, only 800 copies were ever produced, making it challenging to acquire one for around $1,545. However, if they manage to find a lucky break similar to one eBay buyer from France, they could secure a brand new copy for just $82 instead of the usual $3,000 asking price.

4. Ginga Fukei Densetsu: Sapphire (JPN CD)

How A Futuristic Shooter Can Help People Relive The Past

Enthusiasts of ’90s anime-inspired art styles and vertical shooting games (shmups) will feel right at home with Ginga Fukei Densetsu: Sapphire. Although this combination of fan bases might appear specific, it was substantial enough to make this game a cult favorite. Its gameplay may not have stood out against its competitors, but its visually impressive graphics and exceptional soundtrack gave it an edge that other shooters from the era couldn’t match.

As a long-time movie enthusiast, I can tell you that the struggle to find genuine copies of rare and valuable movies like “Sapphire” is a real one. Back in the mid-2000s, the scarcity of this film led to an influx of counterfeit CD bootlegs flooding the market. As someone who has spent countless hours and dollars searching for hard-to-find films, I can attest that it’s essential to be cautious when buying a copy of “Sapphire.”

I remember vividly the time I thought I had scored a bargain on a loose copy of “Sapphire” for only $75. But, alas, it turned out to be a bootleg that was worthless. I’ve since learned the hard way that if you want the real deal, you have to go the extra mile.

Nowadays, I make sure to do my research and buy from reputable sources to avoid getting burned again. And let me tell you, it’s worth the extra effort because the genuine copy of “Sapphire” is worth $765 loose, and a boxed set goes for a whopping $2,000! As a collector, I can’t afford to take any chances. So, if you’re serious about your movie collection, make sure you’re getting the real thing when it comes to “Sapphire.

3. Super Air Zonk: Rockabilly Paradise (US CD)

Soaring As High As Its Prices

Originally intended as the mascot for the PC Engine, Bonk (also known as PC Genjin) wasn’t confined to just that console like Mario and Sonic were. Instead, various platforms such as NES, SNES, Amiga, and more got to enjoy his unique caveman adventures. However, to witness Zonk, the futuristic, sunglasses-wearing, 90s-style counterpart of Bonk, one had to own a TurboGrafx CD system.

His first game was called “Air Zonk,” which was similar to the classic horizontal shooter “Gradius” and shared the same quirky humor as the “Bonk” series. The follow-up, titled “Super Air Zonk“, introduced fresh levels, helpers (similar to “Gradius’s” options), and a new rockabilly soundtrack produced using Red Book Audio. It was a thrill, it was fun, but the price of finding a loose disc of it nowadays is an astonishing $1,000.

2. The Dynastic Hero (US CD)

AKA Wonder Boy In Monster World

It’s challenging to find a franchise that seems to struggle more with its unique identity than the Wonder Boy series. Each game in the series often bears an alternate title and features significantly diverse gameplay, causing confusion among developers. To illustrate this, consider the game Wonder Boy in Monster Land, which could be considered a precursor to Metroidvania games. This game led to two distinct versions of Wonder Boy 3. One of these, titled WB3: The Dragon’s Trap, is a genuine Metroidvania, but it was also released as Monster Land 2.

Westone attempted to rectify issues by titling the subsequent game as “Wonder Boy 4: Monster World 3” in Japan, a name reminiscent of a soccer victory for Wonder Boy. Its TurboGrafx CD edition was titled more straightforwardly as “The Dynastic Hero“, which brought about changes in character designs and swapped the original soundtrack with a fresh one produced using Red Book Audio. With numerous distinctive features, it’s no surprise that boxed copies can fetch up to $3,600.

1. Magical Chase (US)

It’ll Take Some Magic To Chase This Title Down

Without additional accessories like CD units, the scarcest and costliest game for the PC Engine/TurboGrafx-16 is “Magical Chase”. On its own, this particular version sells for around $4,250. If it’s in its original packaging and well-preserved, it could fetch close to $10,000 if sold on the market, assuming a buyer can be found.

This game, developed by Quest, the team behind Final Fantasy Tactics, is a delightful, engaging side-scroller. Its charming visuals and polished gameplay made it one of the console’s top titles. Unfortunately, due to the fact that cute shooters weren’t popular in 1990s America, its US version has become quite hard to find, though even Japanese versions can fetch around $600-$700.

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2025-01-02 15:35